Associate Attorney Jobs in the United States

Associate Attorney Jobs Overview

Looking to dive into the legal world? Start out in associate attorney jobs. In this profession, you’ll be a licensed professional working within a law firm or as a counsel in-house at a company.

This role is a steppingstone between law school and seasoned practice, allowing you to gain valuable experience along the way. Armed with a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree and a license obtained by passing the bar exam, you’re ready to tackle the legal arena.

Your days will be dynamic. Typically, you’ll perform the following:

• conduct legal research
• draft documents
• learn by assisting more experienced attorneys or partners
• possibly even present or assist on cases in court

Expect varying hours depending on caseload and deadlines. Workplaces can vary too, from large to small law firms, to corporate legal departments or smaller companies.

Your skills are and will remain in demand. Associate attorney roles will grow at a strong 8% rate during the next few years. You’ll be able to choose from about 39,100 openings each year.

Salaries for Associate Attorney Jobs

Lawyers make between $83,042 and $166,262 per year on average. Since associate attorneys are entry-level lawyers, we can estimate your salary to be at least around $83,042 per year. Of course, the type of industry and employer you work for, as well as location also play an important role.

For instance, these are the industries that pay lawyer and associate attorney jobs the most:

• nonscheduled air transportation: $310,250 per year
• computer and peripheral equipment manufacturing: $276,160 per year
• office administrative services: $261,740 per year
• spectator sports: $251,260 per year
• sound recording industries: $249,320 per year

Location-wise, as an associate attorney, you’ll earn the most in:

• District of Columbia: $226,510 per year
• California: $201,530 per year
• Massachusetts: $196,230
• New York: $188,900
• Connecticut: $174,520

Curious about how much you could make in your area? Check out Monster’s Salary Tool. You’ll also learn where your job is in high demand, as well as the salaries for similar opportunities.

How to Find the Best Associate Attorney Jobs

Job hunting can be intimidating. Follow our tips to make it an easier process.

Identify Your Niche and Strengths

To find ideal associate attorney jobs, start by identifying your passions and strengths. Whether you thrive in the courtroom or prefer the intricacies of corporate law, knowing your niche is the first essential step in your search.

If you’re a strong communicator, consider roles that involve more client interaction. If you excel in research, think about positions where you can showcase your analytical skills.

Analyze the Job Openings

Then, review job listings, focusing on those that match your skills and experiences. If you lack a requirement, don’t discard the option just yet.

Consider your overall profile. If it’s not a core condition, you should still apply. It might be something that you could learn along the way.

Screen Companies

Always research companies as well. Read their mission statements and learn about their values. Look for law firms or companies with a strong reputation and positive employee feedback.

Reviews can provide a window into the work environment. Seek a workplace that resonates with your career goals and values.

How to Apply to Associate Attorney Jobs

Once you find suitable associate attorney roles, it’s important to prep your resume and cover letter with attention to land more interviews. Here’s what we suggest:

Update Your Resume for an Associate Attorney Job

Crafting a great attorney resume requires a tailored approach. Start with a crisp professional summary highlighting your key strengths and reasons for entering the legal field.

Customize your resume for each job by mirroring the language used in the job opening. This means including the same keywords. Common ones you’ll find in associate attorney job listings include:

• legal research
• writing briefs and motions
• case analysis
• depositions
• document review
• mediation
• litigation support

Another great tip is to quantify achievements with metrics whenever possible. As an entry-level attorney, focus on what you obtained during law school or in previous internships. For instance, you could mention:

• your Bar exam score
• research projects completed
• cases assisted or supported
• legal seminars or workshops attended
• number of mock trials you participated in

Need more help? Get in touch with Monster’s Resume Writing Services. Tell us what roles you’re targeting, and we’ll craft a keyword-rich resume that will get you interviews in no time.

Cover Letter Tips

Submitting a cover letter is often necessary to apply to associate attorney jobs, especially at the most competitive firms. Here’s some advice to help you write a powerful one:

• Address your letter directly to the hiring manager or the HR professional listed in the job posting to make a connection. If a name isn’t provided, a simple call to the firm can unveil this crucial detail.
• In your letter, begin by expressing your genuine interest in the firm and highlight any specific cases or practice areas they cover that resonate with you. Leverage your research to demonstrate your understanding of the firm’s values and achievements.
• Next, spotlight your relevant skills and experiences, emphasizing how they align with the firm’s needs. This is your chance to shine, so be specific and use active language to showcase your accomplishments.
• Check out our lawyer cover letter example for more tips.

Finally, upload your resume and cover letter to your Monster account. As a member, you can browse and apply for any role in a few clicks. Plus, opt int to receive all the latest job listings that fit your preferences.

How to Follow Up with an Employer

So, you’ve tossed your hat in the ring for that associate attorney position - nice move! Now, don’t leave it at that. Make that interview happen. Give it about a week after applying to let the dust settle but then, shoot a polite follow-up email to the hiring manager. Keep it concise:

• Mention the specific job you applied for and when.
• Express enthusiasm for the opportunity.
• Briefly highlight your interest in the law field and your background.
• Politely inquire about the timeline to receive an update.

After that, remember to be patient - you don’t want to appear impatient.

Interviewing Tips for Associate Attorney Jobs

Before heading to any law firm interview, take some time to prepare thoroughly. Get familiar with the different types of interviews you might face such as phone screenings, one-on-one and panel interviews.

Then, prepare for ice-breaking interview questions about your background, interests, and why you’re interested in that company or firm. Since you’re new to the law field, they might inquire about your familiarity with specific practice areas and research skills. Anticipate questions about your ability to handle client interactions, legal research, and teamwork too.

Be ready to highlight any mock trial experience and how it equipped you for real-world practice. Lastly, research the firm so you can ask insightful questions about the type of cases they handle or how the team collaborates.

What to Do When You Get an Offer

Great job on landing that associate attorney position! When it comes to deciding what to do, don’t rush it.

• First, thank the hiring manager for the opportunity and express enthusiasm about joining their team.
• Then, politely ask for a reasonable period - typically between 24 hours and a week - to weigh your options. You might feel pressured but don’t. This is normal practice in every industry.
• Next, examine the job offer as if it were a legal brief. Consider pay and benefits, including health insurance coverage, 401(k) match, parental leave or fertility benefits. Evaluate work-life balance as well. Ensure all of this aligns with your expectations and needs.
• If something doesn't quite add up, don’t be afraid to ask questions or try to negotiate better terms. If you chose this last option, being a rookie in the law field, you must build a strong case as to why you deserve more. Think about great achievements you gained during law school or internships.

Associate Attorney Career Paths

Associate attorney jobs can open the door to a multitude of law careers. Here are some of them:

• Senior associate attorney. As a senior associate you’ll take on more responsibilities. Among other things, you'll manage cases and guide junior colleagues. To succeed in this role, you must excel in legal research, client relations and exhibit strong leadership skills.
• Corporate attorney. Specializing in corporate law, you’d provide crucial advice to businesses about the creation, operation, and dissolution of corporations. Your tasks would range from contract drafting to compliance and involvement in mergers and acquisitions.
• City attorney. Serving as the chief legal advisor to a city or municipality, city attorneys manage legal matters on behalf of the city. In this position, you’d advise on municipal regulations, representing the city in litigation, and providing legal guidance to city officials and departments.
• Judge. You could choose to transition to become a judge. You’d preside over court proceedings, make legal rulings, and ensure fair trials. You’d need a deep understanding of the law and have impartiality and excellent decision-making abilities.

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