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Staff Attorney Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Staff Attorney

Pontiac, MI ยท 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 ...

Staff Attorney

Detroit, MI ยท 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 ...

Staff Attorney

Detroit, MI ยท 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 (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 ...

Staff Attorney

Detroit, MI ยท 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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Staff Attorney

Southfield, MI ยท On-site +1

$119K - $210K/yr

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 ...

Staff Attorney

Southfield, MI ยท On-site

$119K - $210K/yr

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 ...

Staff Attorney

Lansing, MI ยท 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 ...

Staff Attorney

Detroit, MI ยท On-site

$90 - $130/hr

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 ...

New

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 ...

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 ...

Staff Attorney

Lansing, MI ยท 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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Showing results 1-20

Staff Attorney information

See Michigan salary details

$44K

$79.7K

$132K

How much do staff attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 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.

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 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:

Infographic showing various Staff Attorney job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,704 per year, or $38.3 per hour.

Staff Attorney

United Community Housing Coalition

Detroit, MI โ€ข On-site

$55K - $66K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Position Overview:

UCHC staff attorneys work under the direction of the Executive Director and the Director of Legal Services. Ideal candidates have excellent writing, communication, and problem-solving skills. They must be able to work both independently and collaboratively and thrive in a fast-paced environment. Candidates must have sound legal judgment and the ability to think creatively, be able to quickly grasp legal issues and factual claims, and be compassionate and detail-oriented. Candidates must also have the ability to work well with a variety of people, including clients and colleagues from diverse backgrounds, as well as the ability to meet deadlines and manage caseloads effectively.
Responsibilities:
UCHC staff attorneys handle a broad range of matters, including but not limited to:
  • Conducting client intake, including completion of all necessary forms for clients.
  • Serving clients who will potentially need a variety of types of legal assistance, including but not limited to tax-foreclosure-prevention counseling, mortgage-foreclosure prevention counseling, landlord-tenant counseling and eviction-prevention assistance, and land-contract counseling.
  • Providing court representation, which may include physical, as well as remote appearances in state and federal court and in related administrative proceedings, in addition to the preparation of pleadings.
  • Maintaining client confidentiality under all circumstances.
  • Interacting with other staff to advise on and/or facilitate the execution of the organization’s programmatic and/or operational initiatives.
  • Drafting and filing legal documents with the appropriate government agencies.
  • Collecting and tracking necessary documents for client service and reporting.
  • Drafting correspondence to clients and government agencies.
  • Participating in various organization staff meetings.
  • Perform with a high standard of professionalism and respect for clients and colleagues.
  • Providing other assistance that may be necessary to further the goals of the program or the organization.
  • Performing other duties as assigned by the Executive Director or the Director of Legal Services.

Preferred Qualifications:
Staff attorneys must be thoroughly committed to UCHC’s mission. In addition, qualified candidates must have:
  • J.D. from an accredited law school and be admitted to practice law in Michigan.
  • One to five years of experience practicing law.
  • Experience in housing law and civil litigation.
  • Ability to be self-motivated and to work independently.
  • Ability to evaluate evidence and determine whether legal standards have been met.
  • Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.
  • Ability to apply legal standards to factual situations.
  • Ability to guide non-lawyers with application of legal standards Specifics.
  • Staff attorneys will represent clients in court or in virtual hearings as determined by the court and by UCHC. Attorneys will also work in UCHC’s Detroit-based office and occasionally work from home.

Other Details:
  • This is a full-time position.
  • Salary is commensurate with experience. UCHC offers generous medical benefits and time off.
  • Schedule: 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. or 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday, though some additional time may be required, depending on court filings.
  • Expected start date: as soon as possible. 

Employee Benefits:
  • Low-cost medical, dental, vision, short-term disability, long-term disability, and group life.
  • Generous PTO program.
  • Generous holiday program.
  • A focus on work/life balance.

About UCHC:
The United Community Housing Coalition (UCHC) is a nonprofit comprehensive housing assistance organization that has provided a variety of housing-related services to Detroit's lowincome residents since 1973. UCHC has worked with tenants, homesteaders, homeowners, the homeless, community organizations rebuilding neighborhoods and providing affordable housing, religious, civil rights, labor, and housing advocacy organization to improve, preserve and expand affordable housing opportunities for low-income Detroiters. Because of its long history and significant expertise as a comprehensive housing services provider in Michigan, UCHC is frequently asked to provide advice to other organizations in communities across southeast Michigan. All services are provided to income-eligible families and individuals free of charge.
United Community Housing Coalition
2727 Second Ave, Suite 313, Detroit, MI 48201
313-963-3310
www.uchcdetroit.org
The United Community Housing Coalition provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, United Community Housing Coalition complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including but not limited to recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, and termination. Consistent with state and federal laws, UCHC is committed to maintaining a workplace free from the abuse of drugs and alcohol.