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Unlicensed Attorney Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Unlicensed Attorney information

See Michigan salary details

$46.6K

$103.6K

$168.2K

How much do unlicensed attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for unlicensed attorney in Michigan is $103,620.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,000.00 and $121,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an unlicensed attorney?

An Unlicensed Attorney is a law school graduate who has not yet passed the bar exam or obtained a license to practice law. They may work in legal research, document preparation, or as a law clerk under the supervision of a licensed attorney. While they cannot represent clients in court or provide legal advice independently, they can assist in various legal tasks within law firms, corporate legal departments, or government agencies. Their role is often transitional as they work toward earning their law license.

What responsibilities can I expect as an unlicensed attorney?

As an Unlicensed Attorney, your daily tasks often include conducting in-depth legal research, drafting memos and legal documents, preparing case files, and supporting licensed attorneys during case preparation. While you cannot represent clients in court or offer independent legal advice, you play a crucial role in ensuring cases are thoroughly researched and documents are accurate and well-prepared. You'll frequently collaborate with attorneys, paralegals, and support staff, and may have opportunities to gain valuable insight into legal practice and procedures. This role provides practical experience that is especially beneficial if you plan to sit for the bar exam in the future or pursue advancement in the legal field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an unlicensed attorney?

To excel as an Unlicensed Attorney, you should have a robust background in legal research, writing, and analysis, often supported by a JD degree even though bar passage is not yet obtained. Familiarity with legal research databases such as Westlaw or LexisNexis and proficiency in standard office software are commonly required. Strong organizational, communication, and time-management skills set outstanding candidates apart in this position. These competencies are vital for delivering high-quality legal support and collaborating effectively with licensed attorneys in various legal settings.

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Unlicensed Attorney job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 79% Physical, 10% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,620 per year, or $49.8 per hour.

Foster Care Specialist

Catholic Charities West Michigan

Benton Harbor, MI • On-site

$45K - $53K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Position Summary
The Foster Care Specialist position is responsible for working within the child welfare arena to find permanency for children residing in foster care. This person will work with children, caregivers, birth parents, the Courts, and Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) to collaborate and create a permanency goal most appropriate for each child.
Salary Range: $45,000.00-$53,800.00
Are you passionate about discovering new ways to help empower people and make a difference in their lives?
If you've got what it takes to support us in our mission to provide help and create hope through innovative, collaborative, and diverse programs within the community, then we've got the right opportunity for you.
About Catholic Charities West Michigan
Catholic Charities West Michigan (CCWM) is a community-based agency providing programs in Western Michigan and offering a variety of services in family preservation, behavioral health, child welfare, and community outreach.
  • CCWM is committed to ensuring a diverse workforce and a work environment whereby all staff are treated with dignity, respect, and fairness.
  • CCWM encourages persons of diverse backgrounds and faiths to apply for employment.

Essentials Duties and Responsibilities
  • Serves a caseload of foster children, their birth families, and their licensed or unlicensed caregivers across Michigan
  • Provides or refers the children and their birth families to services based on a structured assessment of the children and their birth family
  • Maintains regular contacts
  • Coordinates services with staff and families
  • Participates in on-call placements and emergency services
  • Drives and transports as needed

Other Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Knowledge of the Michigan courts or possesses the ability to successfully interact with court personnel and appointed attorneys
  • Ability to utilize the DHHS computer systems and other computer systems required by contract
  • Knowledge and ability of strong conflict resolution skills and ability to work with difficult individuals
  • Knowledge and ability of strong engagement skills, coping skills and patience for difficult situations
  • Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing
  • Ability to relate to diverse populations and cultures while communicating with clients and the public in a courteous and effective manner
  • Ability to work independently and exercise good judgment

Recommended Employment Qualifications
Education:
A Bachelor's Degree in social Work, sociology, psychology or a human service related area as specified by MSA and BCAL rules.
Experience:
A minimum of three years of related experience in the field of Human Service, Child Welfare experience preferred.
Certificates, Licenses, Registrations:
none required.
Supervisory Responsibilities:
This position does not have supervisory responsibilities.
Our Mission
Inspired by the Church's social teachings, Catholic Charities West Michigan fosters individuals and families to flourish by providing help and creating hope.
Our Vision
Catholic Charities West Michigan is called to create a just and compassionate community where all people can achieve their divine purpose.
Our Values
  • Sanctity of All Life
  • Compassion
  • Integrity
  • Respect
  • Equity

CCWM is an equal opportunity employer, subject to all federal and state laws as applicable to a religious Agency.