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Staff Attorney Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

City of Pontiac

Staff Attorney

Pontiac, MI · On-site

$67K - $104K/yr

Staff Attorney FLSA Status: Exempt Status: Full time Pay Grade: M-12 SUPERVISION Supervision Received : Works independently under the Law Director Supervision Given: No supervision given DESCRIPTION ...

Detroit Justice Center

Staff Attorney

Detroit, MI · Hybrid

$85K - $90K/yr

Detroit Justice Center (DJC) is seeking a bold Staff Attorney to join our Legal Services and Advocacy Practice (LSAP). We partner with communities to create economic opportunities, transform the ...

Detroit Justice Center

Staff Attorney

Detroit, MI · Hybrid

Detroit Justice Center (DJC) is seeking a bold Staff Attorney to join our Legal Services and Advocacy Practice (LSAP). We partner with communities to create economic opportunities, transform the ...

Detroit Justice Center

Staff Attorney

Detroit, MI · On-site

$85K - $90K/yr

Detroit Justice Center (DJC) is seeking a bold Staff Attorney to join our Legal Services and Advocacy Practice (LSAP). We partner with communities to create economic opportunities, transform the ...

Detroit Justice Center

Staff Attorney

Detroit, MI · Hybrid

$85K - $90K/yr

Detroit Justice Center (DJC) is seeking a bold Staff Attorney to join our Legal Services and Advocacy Practice (LSAP). We partner with communities to create economic opportunities, transform the ...

Wilson Elser - Attorneys

Staff Attorney

Detroit, MI · Hybrid

If you are a motivated professional looking for a long-term fit where you can grow in a role, and will be valued and empowered, then we invite you to apply to our Staff Attorney position, in any of ...

Wilson Elser - Attorneys

Staff Attorney

Detroit, MI · Hybrid

If you are a motivated professional looking for a long-term fit where you can grow in a role, and will be valued and empowered, then we invite you to apply to our Staff Attorney position, in any of ...

Wilson Elser - Attorneys

Staff Attorney

Detroit, MI · On-site

If you are a motivated professional looking for a long-term fit where you can grow in a role, and will be valued and empowered, then we invite you to apply to our Staff Attorney position, in any of ...

U.S Comm for Refuge

Staff Attorney

Dearborn, MI · On-site

OVERVIEW Staff Attorney, UAC Legal Services, supports the newly awarded contract from ORR to provide direct legal services to UAC (Unaccompanied Alien Children) who are currently in ORR care. Tasks ...

Liberty Mutual

Staff Attorney

Southfield, MI · On-site +1

Mentor junior attorneys and legal support staff, offering guidance and direction to elevate team performance. * Documentation and Compliance: Ensure all legal documents are meticulously prepared ...

Michigan Advocacy Program

Staff Attorney

Lansing, MI · On-site

$60K/yr

The Michigan Elder Justice Initiative (MEJI) is seeking two full-time attorneys with a demonstrated commitment to public interest advocacy to serve as a Staff Attorney in our MI Community, Home, and ...

Michigan Advocacy Program

Staff Attorney

Lansing, MI · On-site

$60K/yr

The Michigan Elder Justice Initiative (MEJI) is seeking two full-time attorneys with a demonstrated commitment to public interest advocacy to serve as a Staff Attorney in our MI Community, Home, and ...

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Staff Attorney information

See Michigan salary details

$44K

$79.7K

$132K

How much do staff attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for staff attorney in Michigan is $79,704.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,400.00 and $92,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a staff attorney?

A staff attorney works for a law firm or another organization. Staff attorneys are associates with law degrees who have passed the Bar Exam in their states. They research, analyze, and write about complex legal issues. Duties and responsibilities of all staff attorney jobs include legal research and support to the partners in a law firm. Staff attorneys may also draft portions of legal opinions based on their research as well as verify cited sources, and review documents at the request of a partner. Staff attorney is a good position for attorneys who wish to continue in the legal profession.

What is a staff attorney?

A staff attorney is a licensed lawyer employed by an organization, law firm, nonprofit, or government agency to provide legal advice, conduct research, draft documents, and represent clients or the organization in legal matters. Unlike partners or associates who may have client development or managerial responsibilities, staff attorneys typically focus on substantive legal work and supporting ongoing cases. Their duties often include reviewing and preparing legal documents, assisting with litigation, and ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations. Staff attorneys play a vital role in supporting legal teams and ensuring that legal services are delivered efficiently and effectively.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a staff attorney?

To thrive as a Staff Attorney, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, bar admission, strong legal research, and writing abilities. Familiarity with legal research platforms like Westlaw or LexisNexis, and case management systems, is typically required. Outstanding analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you excel in supporting clients and collaborating with colleagues. These competencies are essential for delivering high-quality legal counsel, ensuring compliance, and effectively managing caseloads in a legal environment.

What are some common challenges staff attorneys face when managing multiple cases simultaneously?

Staff Attorneys often juggle a high volume of cases, each with distinct deadlines and documentation requirements. Balancing priorities while maintaining attention to detail can be challenging, especially when urgent matters arise unexpectedly. Effective time management and strong organizational skills are essential for meeting court deadlines and collaborating with colleagues, such as paralegals and senior attorneys. Regular communication with team members and leveraging case management software can help alleviate these challenges and ensure smooth workflow.

What is the difference between Staff Attorney vs Associate Attorney?

AspectStaff AttorneyAssociate Attorney
Required CredentialsJuris Doctor (JD), bar admissionJuris Doctor (JD), bar admission
Work EnvironmentLaw firms, legal departments, nonprofitsLaw firms, corporate legal teams, government agencies
Employer & Industry UsageLegal organizations, nonprofits, governmentPrivate law firms, corporate legal departments
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, career paths, responsibilitiesEntry-level to mid-level legal roles, career progression

Both Staff Attorneys and Associate Attorneys typically hold a JD and are bar-certified. Staff Attorneys often work in legal departments or nonprofits, focusing on specific legal tasks without client management, while Associate Attorneys usually work in law firms or corporate settings, handling client cases and gaining experience. The roles are similar but differ mainly in work environment and responsibilities, with Staff Attorneys often having more specialized or in-house roles.

Do you need to pass the bar to be a staff attorney?

Yes, a staff attorney typically must pass the bar exam in the jurisdiction where they practice, as it is a requirement to provide legal services and represent clients. Licensing ensures they are qualified to interpret and apply the law professionally. Some positions may also require ongoing legal education or certification renewal.

How much do staff attorneys make in the US?

Staff attorneys in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, location, and sector. Salaries can vary based on whether they work in government, private firms, or nonprofit organizations, and often include benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

What does it mean to be a staff attorney?

A staff attorney is a legal professional who provides legal advice, drafts documents, and represents clients or organizations in legal matters. They often work within law firms, government agencies, or non-profits, and may specialize in areas such as litigation, compliance, or policy. Strong legal research, writing skills, and a law degree are typically required for this role.
More about Staff Attorney jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Staff Attorney jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Staff Attorney jobs in Michigan are:

What are popular job titles related to Staff Attorney jobs in Michigan?

For Staff Attorney jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Staff Attorney jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Staff Attorney jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Staff Attorney jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Staff Attorney job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Staff Attorney jobs in MI?

For Staff Attorney jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Staff Attorney jobs near you
Infographic showing various Staff Attorney job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,704 per year, or $38.3 per hour.

Staff Attorney

City of Pontiac

Pontiac, MI • On-site

$67K - $104K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION

Staff Attorney

 

FLSA Status: Exempt

Status: Full time

Pay Grade:        M-12     

SUPERVISION

Supervision Received: Works independently under the Law Director

Supervision Given: No supervision given

DESCRIPTION

The Staff Attorney provides legal support to the Law Director and the Law Department, handling a variety of legal matters including municipal contracts, employment law, and ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) compliance. This position conducts legal research, drafts legal documents, and assists the Law Director with preparation for hearings, trials, and negotiations. The Staff Attorney ensures that the City’s legal interests are effectively represented and protected in both advisory and litigation matters.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

  • Conduct legal research and draft legal documents including motions, briefs, contracts, memoranda, and opinions.
  • Provide legal support to the Law Director, assisting with preparation for hearings, trials, negotiations, and other legal proceedings.
  • Prepare, review, and advise on various agreements, contracts, and other legal documents to ensure compliance with applicable laws and policies.
  • Represent the City in litigation, administrative proceedings, negotiations, and other matters requiring legal counsel.
  • Advise City departments on issues related to ARPA funding, employment law, contracts, and other municipal legal matters.
  • Attend City Council meetings or other official meetings as needed to provide legal guidance or support.
  • Collaborate with internal departments, elected officials, and external counsel to achieve favorable legal outcomes.
  • Maintain accurate and organized legal files and documentation.
  • Stay informed of relevant federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and court decisions affecting municipal operations.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.

 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience

  • Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
  • Licensed to practice law in the State of Michigan.
  • Experience in municipal law, contract law, employment law, or public finance (including ARPA) preferred.
  • Strong legal research, analytical, and writing skills.
  • Ability to provide clear and practical legal advice to non-legal staff and officials.
  • Excellent interpersonal, negotiation, and communication skills.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality, exercise sound judgment, and manage multiple priorities.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

  • Municipal, contract, and employment law, including regulations affecting public entities.
  • Federal, state, and local laws relevant to ARPA funding and other public finance matters.
  • Legal research techniques, procedures, and drafting practices for motions, briefs, contracts, and memoranda.
  • Principles of litigation, negotiation, and dispute resolution.
  • Administrative and procedural rules governing City operations and City Council proceedings.
  • Conducting legal research and analyzing complex legal issues.
  • Drafting clear, concise, and legally defensible documents, including contracts, agreements, motions, and memoranda.
  • Providing legal advice and practical solutions to City departments, officials, and staff.
  • Negotiating settlements or agreements and representing the City in legal proceedings.
  • Organizing and managing multiple cases, projects, and priorities effectively.
  • Apply legal knowledge to resolve municipal, employment, and contract issues.
  • Interpret and implement federal, state, and local laws and regulations.
  • Communicate legal concepts clearly in both written and oral formats to non-legal audiences.
  • Maintain confidentiality and exercise professional judgment in sensitive matters.
  • Work collaboratively with colleagues, elected officials, and external counsel.