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Staff Attorney Job Description

Looking to learn more about the staff attorney role or write a job description to attract top talent? We've got your answers here!

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Posted On Feb 03, 2022 

What is a Staff Attorney?


“Staff Attorney” is a catch-all phrase describing lawyers who dedicate their services to a specific organization. This may include a corporation, government entity, academic institution, or not-for-profit. They use their legal expertise to help deal with day-to-day legal issues with which their organization needs regular assistance. A Staff Attorney’s duties include research, analysis and writing about complex legal issues.


Given the wide range of potential employers, the day-to-day duties of a Staff Attorney employed by a legislative body, for example, may vary considerably from the responsibilities of a Staff Attorney at a corporation down the street. It all depends on what legal services the organization needs on an ongoing basis.


Education Requirements

  • Juris Doctor degree
  • State Bar admission
  • 3 years of prior associate-level experience in a particular area of expertise

Staff Attorney Essential Skills

  • Exceptional negotiation and interpersonal communication
  • Meticulous, detail-oriented approach to work matters
  • Up-to-date understanding of the key legal issues germane to an organization
  • Ability to communicate persuasively — in writing, speaking, and via audio-visual technologies

Staff Attorney Roles & Responsibilities

  • Develop and conduct in-house presentations for training or professional development
  • Advise executives on the potential legal ramifications of proposed organizational policies and procedures
  • Protect an organization’s rights in its interactions with external parties

Day-to-Day Duties

  • Perform factual and legal research and analysis
  • Attend legislative committee meetings, and prepares legislation
  • Draft and reviews contracts, employment agreements, and a wide variety of legal correspondence
  • Review documents at the request of a partner

View current opportunities available for Staff Attorneys >