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Defense Attorney Investigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Jeffcoat Firm

Criminal Defense Attorney

Florence, SC

$69K - $93K/yr

Strengthen every case as part of a team - collaborate with fellow attorneys, investigators, and ... Criminal Defense Attorney Incentive Plan We back our attorneys with one of the most straightforward ...

Price Benowitz LLP

Criminal Defense Attorney

Columbia, SC · On-site

$70K - $110K/yr

Position Overview We are seeking an experienced Criminal Defense Attorney to join our Columbia ... Handle Post-Conviction Relief (PCR) matters, including case evaluation, investigation, drafting ...

Belen Law Firm,PLLC

Criminal Defense Attorney

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

Criminal Defense Attorney* with at least 1 year of experience to join our dynamic team. The ideal ... Conduct investigations and gather evidence to support client cases. * Work closely with clients ...

Belen Law Firm, PLLC

Be Seen First

Criminal Defense Attorney

Queen Creek, AZ · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

We are seeking an experienced Criminal Defense Attorney to join our team ... You will be responsible for handling complex cases, from initial investigation through trial, for ...

Urgent

Belen Law Firm, PLLC

Be Seen First

Criminal Defense Attorney

Surprise, AZ · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

We are seeking an experienced Criminal Defense Attorney to join our team ... You will be responsible for handling complex cases, from initial investigation through trial, for ...

Urgent

Belen Law Firm, PLLC

Be Seen First

Criminal Defense Attorney

Surprise, AZ · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

We are seeking an experienced Criminal Defense Attorney to join our team ... You will be responsible for handling complex cases, from initial investigation through trial, for ...

Urgent

Belen Law Firm, PLLC

Be Seen First

Criminal Defense Attorney

Queen Creek, AZ · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

We are seeking an experienced Criminal Defense Attorney to join our team ... You will be responsible for handling complex cases, from initial investigation through trial, for ...

Urgent

W3Global Inc.

Insurance Defense Attorney

Greenville, SC

$100K - $130K/yr

Our Client is seeking a dedicated and skilled Insurance Defense Attorney to join their growing team ... Manage litigation from initial investigation through to case resolution * Draft legal documents ...

W3Global Inc.

Insurance Defense Attorney

Charleston, SC

$90K - $130K/yr

... experienced Insurance Defense Attorney to join its litigation team. This is an excellent ... Manage a diverse caseload from initial investigation through resolution. * Draft pleadings, motions ...

Price Benowitz LLP

Criminal Defense Attorney

Columbia, SC · On-site

$70K - $110K/yr

Position Overview We are seeking an experienced Criminal Defense Attorney to join our Columbia ... Handle Post-Conviction Relief (PCR) matters, including case evaluation, investigation, drafting ...

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All JobsDefense Attorney Investigator Jobs

Defense Attorney Investigator information

See salary details

$32K

$75.3K

$131K

How much do defense attorney investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for defense attorney investigator in the United States is $75,325.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,500.00 and $98,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Defense Attorney Investigator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Defense Attorney Investigator, you need a strong background in criminal justice or law, investigative techniques, and evidence handling, often supported by relevant degrees or law enforcement experience. Familiarity with case management software, legal research databases, and surveillance tools is typically required. Exceptional critical thinking, attention to detail, and interpersonal communication skills set top performers apart in this role. These abilities are crucial for effectively uncovering facts, supporting defense strategies, and ensuring just outcomes in legal cases.

What are some common challenges faced by Defense Attorney Investigators during case preparation?

Defense Attorney Investigators often encounter challenges such as locating reluctant witnesses, gathering difficult-to-access evidence, and working under tight deadlines imposed by the court schedule. They must balance thoroughness with efficiency, ensuring all investigative leads are pursued without delaying the legal process. Additionally, they often collaborate closely with defense attorneys to develop case strategies and must maintain strict confidentiality and ethical standards throughout their work.

What are Defense Attorney Investigators?

Defense Attorney Investigators are professionals who work alongside defense attorneys to gather information, collect evidence, and interview witnesses relevant to criminal or civil cases. Their primary goal is to uncover facts that can support the defense's case, challenge the prosecution's evidence, and ensure that a fair trial is conducted. These investigators may visit crime scenes, review records, and sometimes testify in court about their findings. Their work is crucial in building a strong defense strategy and protecting the legal rights of the accused.

What is the difference between Defense Attorney Investigator vs Paralegal?

AspectDefense Attorney InvestigatorParalegal
Required CredentialsExperience in investigations, sometimes certifications in private investigation or law enforcementAssociate's degree or paralegal certification
Work EnvironmentLegal settings, often in criminal defense firms or government agenciesLaw firms, corporate legal departments, or government offices
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in criminal defense, law enforcement, or legal servicesLegal support roles across various legal sectors
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding investigative roles in defense casesLegal support and administrative functions

Defense Attorney Investigators focus on gathering evidence and conducting investigations for criminal defense cases, often requiring investigative experience. Paralegals assist with legal documentation and case preparation, typically holding paralegal certifications. While both work within legal environments, their roles and required credentials differ significantly, with Defense Attorney Investigators specializing in investigations and Paralegals providing legal support.

More about Defense Attorney Investigator jobs
What cities are hiring for Defense Attorney Investigator jobs? Cities with the most Defense Attorney Investigator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Defense Attorney Investigator jobs? The most popular types of Defense Attorney Investigator jobs are:
What states have the most Defense Attorney Investigator jobs? States with the most job openings for Defense Attorney Investigator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Defense Attorney Investigator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Defense Attorney Investigator jobs are:
Defense Attorney Investigator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defense Attorney Investigator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 73% Physical, 8% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,325 per year, or $36.2 per hour.

Criminal Defense Attorney

Jeffcoat Injury and Car Accident Lawyers

Myrtle Beach, SC • On-site

$69K - $93K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

At The Jeffcoat Firm, every case starts and ends with the client. We are a highly respected South Carolina criminal defense firm built on a simple belief: people facing criminal charges deserve a fierce, knowledgeable advocate in their corner - not just a case number.
Under the leadership of Michael Jeffcoat, our mission is to deliver exceptional legal representation to those who need it most, and to make sure every client feels heard, respected, and fought for from the very first interaction.
What sets us apart is how we get there: with humility, grit, and relentless advocacy for real people. Whether we're in the courtroom or the conference room, we treat every client like they matter. Because they do.
We reject ego. We embrace growth. We make no excuses.
We are actively seeking a Criminal Defense Attorney with a passion for justice, a drive to win for the people who trust us with their future, and an appetite for a law firm home that invests as much in your career as you invest in your clients.
The Impact You'll Have for Our Clients
  • Defend the people who need it most - represent clients facing DUIs, drug offenses, violent crimes, white-collar charges, and more, with the same intensity whether it's their first encounter with the system or their toughest fight yet.
  • Build winning defense strategies - conduct thorough legal research, gather evidence, and craft strong, individualized defense plans for every client you represent.
  • Stand with clients in court - attend first appearances, bond hearings, pre-trial hearings, plea hearings, trials, and sentencing hearings, giving clients a steady, prepared advocate at every stage.
  • Negotiate for the best possible outcome - work directly with prosecutors to pursue favorable plea agreements and case dismissals whenever possible.
  • Guide clients through one of the hardest moments of their lives - conduct initial consultations, clearly explain legal rights, and provide the advice clients need to make informed decisions about their future.
  • Strengthen every case as part of a team - collaborate with fellow attorneys, investigators, and expert witnesses so each client benefits from the full strength of the firm.

The Experience You'll Have as Part of Our Team
We believe attorneys do their best work for clients when they're genuinely supported. That's why we've built an environment designed around your focus and growth:
  • Practice law, not paperwork - our experienced Operations team handles back-office and administrative support so you can stay focused on building winning legal strategies, not chasing logistics.
  • Work where you do your best work - flexible, work-from-home options paired with a collaborative in-office culture with offices across South Carolina, and the Defense flagship location in downtown Columbia.
  • Grow on a real track - supportive leadership, clear accountability, and a genuine investment in your long-term career growth within the firm.
  • Take the time you need - unlimited time off under our Attorney Leave policy, so you can show up for your clients and for yourself.
  • Be part of something bigger - give back through Jeffcoat Gives Back and community initiatives like the Veteran's Expo, on paid volunteer time.
  • Feel the security of comprehensive support - medical, dental, and vision coverage, life and disability insurance, parental leave, and investment in your retirement with a 401(k) with employer contribution.

Criminal Defense Attorney Incentive Plan
We back our attorneys with one of the most straightforward, attorney-friendly incentive plans in the profession - designed so your hard work on behalf of clients translates directly into your earnings:
  • No administrative fees - 100% of your earned incentive is yours; nothing is reduced by hidden administrative costs.
  • Earn on every assigned case you successfully conclude - incentive pay applies to all assigned cases you conclude, so your effort is recognized and rewarded.
  • Your earning potential grows with you - incentive pay increases with tenure, rewarding the experience, judgment, and client relationships you build over time at the firm.

Combined with a competitive base salary, this is a compensation structure built to grow alongside your career.
Who You Are
  • Client centric; someone who truly enjoys the consistent and committed interaction with clients.
  • Willing to travel; recognizes the most impactful work is done in courtrooms.
  • Active South Carolina Bar license in good standing (Client-centric required).
  • Minimum of 1 year of experience in criminal law.
  • Strong courtroom and negotiation skills - able to litigate cases, challenge evidence, and negotiate plea bargains with confidence.
  • Growth-oriented and driven, with a forward-thinking mindset and commitment to continuous learning.
  • Detail-oriented, with a genuine sense of responsibility to the clients you represent.
  • Tech-savvy - proficient in Microsoft Office and legal research tools.

Location
Florence or Myrtle Beach, South Carolina area.
Work authorization/security clearance requirements
Authorized to work in the United States.
Affirmative Action/EEO statement:
The Jeffcoat Firm is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status.
Disclaimer:
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

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