First Year Associate 2026 Graduate Detroit

Segal McCambridge; Detroit (MI); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bar preparation reimbursement

401(k) with firm match

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Professional development and CLE support

Job summary

Segal McCambridge, based in Detroit, is seeking first-year associate attorneys to join their litigation team. This position is tailored for recent law school graduates eager to begin their legal careers and dive into meaningful litigation work.

The role offers comprehensive training, mentorship, and direct involvement in insurance defense matters while encouraging development in various practice areas. Benefits include competitive salary, bonus potential, and a comprehensive benefits package.

Qualifications

• Bar admission pending or anticipated in Michigan.
• Proactive mindset and eagerness to learn through hands-on experience.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Work closely with partners and senior attorneys on active insurance defense matters.
• Draft pleadings, motions, discovery responses, and legal correspondence.
• Conduct legal research and analysis on substantive legal issues.
• Assist with case strategy, fact investigation, and overall case management.
• Prepare for and attend depositions, hearings, mediations, and court appearances.
• Collaborate with clients, colleagues, experts, and support staff in a team-oriented environment.

Skills

Strong legal research

Writing skills

Analytical skills

Excellent communication

Interpersonal skills

Education

J.D. from an accredited law school

Job description

Segal McCambridge, a national litigation firm, is accepting resumes for First-Year Associate Attorneys to join our Detroit (Southfield) office. This role is open to recent or 2026 law school graduates who will begin after completion of the bar exam and are eager to launch their legal careers with meaningful, hands‑on litigation experience from day one.

The associate will focus on 1st and 3rd party insurance defense matters, working closely with experienced trial attorneys on sophisticated, high‑exposure cases. This role also offers the opportunity and long‑term goal of expanding into diversified practice areas as the associate develops professionally within the firm.

This is an exceptional opportunity to gain early litigation and case management experience while building a strong foundation in litigation strategy, advocacy, and client service.

What You’ll Do:

• Work closely with partners and senior attorneys on active insurance defense matters
• Draft pleadings, motions, discovery responses, and legal correspondence
• Conduct legal research and analysis on substantive legal issues
• Assist with case strategy, fact investigation, and overall case management
• Prepare for and attend depositions, hearings, mediations, and court appearances
• Collaborate with clients, colleagues, experts, and support staff in a team‑oriented environment
• Participate in firm‑sponsored training and mentorship programs designed specifically for junior associates
• Gain exposure to additional litigation practice areas over time as part of the firm’s commitment to professional development and diversified experience

What We’re Looking For:

• J.D. from an accredited law school
• Bar admission pending or anticipated in Michigan
• Strong legal research, writing, and analytical skills
• A proactive mindset and eagerness to learn through hands‑on experience
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Professionalism, accountability, and attention to detail
• Interest in litigation, including toxic tort and general liability defense

Why Join Segal McCambridge?

At Segal McCambridge, first‑year associates are not sidelined. You’ll receive structured training, close mentorship, and real responsibility from the outset. Our trial‑focused culture emphasizes learning by doing, with partners who are invested in your development and long‑term growth.

Associates in the Detroit office gain immediate exposure to insurance defense litigation while also having opportunities to work across a broader range of practice areas as their careers evolve. We are committed to helping associates develop into well‑rounded litigators with meaningful client interaction and practical courtroom experience early in their careers.

Compensation & Benefits:

Competitive salary with potential for bonus and business origination credit

• Bar preparation reimbursement
• Comprehensive benefits package, including:
• 401(k) with firm match
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Health savings and flexible spending accounts
• Paid time off and parental leave
• Life insurance
• Professional development and CLE support
• Employee assistance program
• Referral bonuses

About Segal McCambridge:

Founded in 1986, Segal McCambridge has grown from a four‑attorney firm in Chicago into a national litigation firm with offices in more than 15 cities. We represent a diverse client base, including Fortune 500 companies, in complex litigation matters such as asbestos, product liability, class action, environmental, professional liability, cyber risk, and other high‑exposure disputes.