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Defense Attorney Jobs in Hawaii (NOW HIRING)

Criminal Defense Attorney

Honolulu, HI · On-site

$76K - $102K/yr

A Honolulu Law Firm seeks a Criminal Defense Attorney, who focuses on MAJOR FELONIES, DUI, and TRAFFIC COURT (Murder, Kidnapping, Sexual Assault, Burglary, Robbery, Assault, Drug Trafficking, etc ...

Attorney Internship

Honolulu, HI · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This position will convert to an Associate Attorney role once the position becomes available ... Draft court pleadings, defense of motions * Attend court hearings, both telephonic and in person

Assistant Risk Manager

Hilo, HI

$90K - $100K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Works with the assigned defense attorney on hospital claims (e.g., staff interviews, production of documents and other related matters). * Interviews nurses and other staff personnel for data ...

New

Workers Compensation Claims Examiner III

Honolulu, HI · On-site +1

$32.50 - $44/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... defense counsel and participates in litigated matters.* · Communicates with claimants, attorneys, providers and vendors regarding claims issues.* · Work in an organized and proactive manner.* · ...

Defense Attorney information

See Hawaii salary details

$35.8K

$113.3K

$181.8K

How much do defense attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for defense attorney in Hawaii is $113,271.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,400.00 and $133,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a defense attorney?

A defense attorney represents defendants who are facing criminal charges. In this career, you may work to defend both organizations and individual clients. Your responsibilities include researching aspects of a case, inspecting evidence, preparing a defense, arguing the case in court, communicating with clients, managing paperwork and deadlines, and traveling regularly to meet clients. Your job duties also require negotiation and public speaking skills, knowledge of laws and the judicial process, and the ability to work long hours. As a defense attorney, you need exceptional communication skills, investigative abilities, and the integrity to represent clients from diverse backgrounds.

What does a defense attorney do?

A defense attorney is a lawyer who represents individuals or organizations accused of crimes in court. Their primary responsibility is to protect the legal rights of their clients, provide legal advice, and build a strong defense to challenge the prosecution’s case. Defense attorneys conduct investigations, negotiate plea deals, represent clients during trial, and ensure fair treatment in the legal process. They may work on criminal or civil cases and are essential to the justice system by ensuring everyone receives a fair trial.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a defense attorney, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Defense Attorney, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, bar admission, and a solid grasp of criminal law, legal research, and case analysis. Familiarity with legal research databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis, courtroom presentation software, and e-discovery tools is often required. Strong negotiation, analytical thinking, and persuasive communication skills are essential for building client trust and effectively advocating in court. These skills and qualifications are critical for securing favorable outcomes, upholding legal standards, and providing robust representation for clients.

What are some common challenges defense attorneys face during case preparation, and how can they be addressed?

Defense attorneys often encounter challenges such as limited access to evidence, tight deadlines, and managing high caseloads. Effective case preparation requires thorough investigation, close communication with clients, and collaboration with investigators or expert witnesses. Staying organized, prioritizing tasks, and proactively seeking necessary information from prosecutors can help address these challenges and ensure a strong defense for clients.

What is the difference between Defense Attorney vs Public Defender?

AspectDefense AttorneyPublic Defender
CredentialsJurisdiction-specific law degree, bar licenseJurisdiction-specific law degree, bar license
Work EnvironmentPrivate law firms, solo practices, or corporate settingsGovernment offices, public defender's offices
Employer & IndustryPrivate clients, law firms, corporationsGovernment-funded legal aid services
Common Search IntentLegal defense for clients in criminal casesLegal defense for indigent clients in criminal cases

Both Defense Attorneys and Public Defenders are licensed lawyers specializing in criminal defense. The main difference lies in their employment: Defense Attorneys typically work in private practice or firms, representing clients who can pay for legal services. Public Defenders work for government agencies, providing free legal defense to those who cannot afford it. While their roles are similar, their work environments and client bases differ significantly.

Are defense attorneys in demand?

Defense attorneys are generally in steady demand due to ongoing legal needs in criminal justice systems. Employment opportunities depend on factors such as geographic location, experience, and specialization, with job growth often aligned with overall trends in the legal industry.

How much do most defense attorneys make?

Most defense attorneys earn a median annual salary of around $63,000, with experienced professionals in private practice earning significantly more, often exceeding $100,000. Salaries vary based on location, experience, and whether they work in public or private sectors, and many defense attorneys also handle complex cases that can impact earnings.

What are popular job titles related to Defense Attorney jobs in Hawaii?

For Defense Attorney jobs in Hawaii, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Defense Attorney jobs in Hawaii look for?

The top searched job categories for Defense Attorney jobs in Hawaii are:

What are popular job titles related to Defense Attorney jobs in HI?

For Defense Attorney jobs in HI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Defense Attorney job openings in Hawaii as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,271 per year, or $54.5 per hour.

Criminal Defense Attorney

Legal Solutions Group

Honolulu, HI • On-site

$76K - $102K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

A Honolulu Law Firm seeks a Criminal Defense Attorney, who focuses on MAJOR FELONIES, DUI, and TRAFFIC COURT (Murder, Kidnapping, Sexual Assault, Burglary, Robbery, Assault, Drug Trafficking, etc...) to join their growing office!

QUALIFICATIONS:

- 1 to 3 years of HI criminal defense experience defending clients charged with DUI's, Murder, Kidnapping, Sexual Assault, Burglary, Robbery, Assault, Drug Trafficking,...major felonies.

- Criminal defense trial experience is a huge plus

- Passionate about what you do

- Licensed to practice law in the state of SC and in good standing

- Computer savvy

- Experience going to jail house to speak with clients

https://www.legalsolutionsgrouppc.com/

FOR CONSIDERATION PLEASE FORWARD RESUME


Legal Solutions Group, P.C. logo

About Legal Solutions Group, P.C.

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

I'm Darla Hail I have 20+ years of combined experience as a litigation paralegal and law office manager. I am now the owner and operator of Legal Solutions Group, PC. I have a proven record, and with my experience, resources, contacts, associations, relationships, pool of talented candidates, knowledge and skills, my team can give YOUR LAW FIRM the exceptional talent you seek.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Charleston, SC, US