Associate Attorney (Criminal Defense)

Job Description

Job Description

Title: Associate Attorney, Criminal Defense Attorney

Location: Los Angeles/San Fernando Valley, CA

Compensation: Base+ $100,000 or more (DOE)

Benefits: Medical/Dental/Vision/401k/PTO

Requirements:

• Juris Doctor (JD) and licensed in California
• Strong interest in criminal defense; experience in PI, family, or immigration welcome
• Excellent advocacy, research, and writing skills
• Organized and detail-oriented; able to manage multiple cases at once
• Spanish fluency strongly preferred
• Federal Bar admission is a plus

A highly regarded Southern California criminal defense firm is seeking a Criminal Defense Associate Attorney to join its growing litigation team. This is an opportunity for an attorney who enjoys being in the courtroom, fighting for clients, and handling meaningful cases from start to finish.

This firm is looking for a true advocate — someone who wants trial experience, enjoys litigation strategy, and takes pride in defending individuals facing serious criminal allegations.

Responsibilities:

• Manage criminal cases from intake through resolution
• Appear in court for arraignments, hearings, motions, negotiations, and trials
• Conduct legal research and draft motions/pleadings
• Analyze discovery and develop defense strategies
• Negotiate with prosecutors while preparing every case for trial
• Communicate directly with clients throughout the legal process
• Work alongside experienced criminal defense attorneys on complex matters

Ideal Background:

• 2+ years of criminal law experience
• Prior courtroom experience required
• Strong litigation instincts and confidence arguing in court
• Experience handling misdemeanors and/or felony matters
• Trial experience preferred
• Former prosecutors/public defenders encouraged to apply
• California Bar admission required

Why Join?

• True courtroom and trial exposure
• Work directly with experienced criminal defense attorneys
• Handle meaningful cases where your advocacy matters
• Growth opportunity within an expanding boutique practice
• Entrepreneurial environment — not a paperwork-heavy associate role
• Competitive compensation starting around $100K+