$100 - $140/hr
S. (SMH) is a prominent 20-attorney law firm based in King County, Washington. Our dynamic practice spans criminal defense, civil litigation, and appellate practice. We pride ourselves on delivering ...
$100 - $140/hr
S. (SMH) is a prominent 20-attorney law firm based in King County, Washington. Our dynamic practice spans criminal defense, civil litigation, and appellate practice. We pride ourselves on delivering ...
$120 - $180/hr
Litigation Defense Attorney - Tampa Beytin McLaughlin is seeking an experienced associate attorney for its Tampa office to support shareholders and partners in the defense of medical malpractice and ...
$120 - $180/hr
Litigation Defense Attorney - Tampa Beytin McLaughlin is seeking an experienced associate attorney for its Tampa office to support shareholders and partners in the defense of medical malpractice and ...
$100 - $120/hr
Salary Range: $100,000.00 To $120,000.00 Annually Property Damage and Bodily Injury Defense Attorney (Internal Claims Counsel - Litigation) CURE Auto Insurance is a leading direct writer of auto ...
$100 - $120/hr
Salary Range: $100,000.00 To $120,000.00 Annually Property Damage and Bodily Injury Defense Attorney (Internal Claims Counsel - Litigation) CURE Auto Insurance is a leading direct writer of auto ...
$90 - $130/hr
Dunham & Jones is a nationwide criminal defense firm built on purpose, service, and strong relationships. We're hiring a full-time Associate Attorney to join our Midland office, where you'll have the ...
$90 - $130/hr
Dunham & Jones is a nationwide criminal defense firm built on purpose, service, and strong relationships. We're hiring a full-time Associate Attorney to join our Midland office, where you'll have the ...
$90 - $130/hr
Dunham & Jones is a nationwide criminal defense firm built on purpose, service, and strong relationships. We're hiring a full-time Associate Attorney to join our Midland office, where you'll have the ...
$90 - $130/hr
Dunham & Jones is a nationwide criminal defense firm built on purpose, service, and strong relationships. We're hiring a full-time Associate Attorney to join our Midland office, where you'll have the ...
$90 - $120/hr
Dunham & Jones is a statewide Texas criminal defense firm built on purpose, service, and strong relationships. We're hiring a full-time Associate Attorney to join our Corpus Christi office, where you ...
$90 - $120/hr
Dunham & Jones is a statewide Texas criminal defense firm built on purpose, service, and strong relationships. We're hiring a full-time Associate Attorney to join our Corpus Christi office, where you ...
$90 - $120/hr
Dunham & Jones is a statewide Texas criminal defense firm built on purpose, service, and strong relationships. We're hiring a full-time Associate Attorney to join our Corpus Christi office, where you ...
$90 - $120/hr
Dunham & Jones is a statewide Texas criminal defense firm built on purpose, service, and strong relationships. We're hiring a full-time Associate Attorney to join our Corpus Christi office, where you ...
$90 - $120/hr
Dunham & Jones is a statewide Texas criminal defense firm built on purpose, service, and strong relationships. We're hiring a full-time Associate Attorney to join our Corpus Christi office, where you ...
$90 - $120/hr
Dunham & Jones is a statewide Texas criminal defense firm built on purpose, service, and strong relationships. We're hiring a full-time Associate Attorney to join our Corpus Christi office, where you ...
$90 - $130/hr
We are seeking an Attorney that will be responsible for independently managing defense litigated cases, with minimal oversight by the managing partner of the book of business. The role requires full ...
$90 - $130/hr
We are seeking an Attorney that will be responsible for independently managing defense litigated cases, with minimal oversight by the managing partner of the book of business. The role requires full ...
$90 - $140/hr
We are seeking an Attorney that will be responsible for independently managing defense litigated cases, with minimal oversight by the managing partner of the book of business. The role requires full ...
$90 - $140/hr
We are seeking an Attorney that will be responsible for independently managing defense litigated cases, with minimal oversight by the managing partner of the book of business. The role requires full ...
Civil Litigation Attorney (Defense-side!) Remote Hybrid!!!
Louisville, KY · On-site
$120K - $185K/yr
Immediate opening for an established Insurance Defense Attorney with at least 5+ years of experience for highly-respected, multi-state litigation firm. This position is for the firm's office in ...
Quick apply
Civil Litigation Attorney (Defense-side!) Remote Hybrid!!!
Louisville, KY · On-site
$120K - $185K/yr
Immediate opening for an established Insurance Defense Attorney with at least 5+ years of experience for highly-respected, multi-state litigation firm. This position is for the firm's office in ...
$100 - $140/hr
... Defense Attorneys in its Louisville office. Ideal candidates will have a minimum of 2+ years of ... For this role, we are seeking an attorney with 2 years of experience. The pay range for this role ...
$100 - $140/hr
... Defense Attorneys in its Louisville office. Ideal candidates will have a minimum of 2+ years of ... For this role, we are seeking an attorney with 2 years of experience. The pay range for this role ...
Litigation Defense Attorney - Partially Remote
Louisville, KY · On-site
$138 - $193/hr
This is a dynamic and forward-thinking law firm committed to providing exceptional legal services in the field of injury defense litigation. They were rated "SuperLawyers" in 2021 and have a strong ...
Litigation Defense Attorney - Partially Remote
Louisville, KY · On-site
$138 - $193/hr
This is a dynamic and forward-thinking law firm committed to providing exceptional legal services in the field of injury defense litigation. They were rated "SuperLawyers" in 2021 and have a strong ...
Litigation Defense Attorney - Partially Remote
Louisville, KY · On-site
$100K - $140K/yr
This is a dynamic and forward-thinking law firm committed to providing exceptional legal services in the field of injury defense litigation. They were rated "SuperLawyers" in 2021 and have a strong ...
Quick apply
Litigation Defense Attorney - Partially Remote
Louisville, KY · On-site
$100K - $140K/yr
This is a dynamic and forward-thinking law firm committed to providing exceptional legal services in the field of injury defense litigation. They were rated "SuperLawyers" in 2021 and have a strong ...
$122 - $203/hr
Workers Compensation Defense Attorney needed for in-house litigation position, working under the direction of the General Counsel. This position will work defending litigated Workers' Compensation ...
$122 - $203/hr
Workers Compensation Defense Attorney needed for in-house litigation position, working under the direction of the General Counsel. This position will work defending litigated Workers' Compensation ...
$100 - $140/hr
Dunham & Jones is a nationwide criminal defense firm built on purpose, service, and strong relationships. We're hiring a full-time Attorney to join our Fort Worth office, where you'll have the ...
$100 - $140/hr
Dunham & Jones is a nationwide criminal defense firm built on purpose, service, and strong relationships. We're hiring a full-time Attorney to join our Fort Worth office, where you'll have the ...
$117 - $175/hr
A majority of Council members are California state justices and judges; however, the Council also includes lawyers, legislators, and court administrators. By enhancing its role as a leadership ...
$117 - $175/hr
A majority of Council members are California state justices and judges; however, the Council also includes lawyers, legislators, and court administrators. By enhancing its role as a leadership ...
$132 - $199/hr
Sr Staff Attorney - LM07DE We're determined to make a difference and are proud to be an insurance ... Prepare complex pleadings, written discovery, depositions, motions and briefs in support of defense ...
$132 - $199/hr
Sr Staff Attorney - LM07DE We're determined to make a difference and are proud to be an insurance ... Prepare complex pleadings, written discovery, depositions, motions and briefs in support of defense ...
$132 - $199/hr
Sr Staff Attorney - LM07DE We're determined to make a difference and are proud to be an insurance ... Prepare complex pleadings, written discovery, depositions, motions and briefs in support of defense ...
$132 - $199/hr
Sr Staff Attorney - LM07DE We're determined to make a difference and are proud to be an insurance ... Prepare complex pleadings, written discovery, depositions, motions and briefs in support of defense ...
$132 - $199/hr
Sr Staff Attorney - LM07DE We're determined to make a difference and are proud to be an insurance ... Prepare complex pleadings, written discovery, depositions, motions and briefs in support of defense ...
$132 - $199/hr
Sr Staff Attorney - LM07DE We're determined to make a difference and are proud to be an insurance ... Prepare complex pleadings, written discovery, depositions, motions and briefs in support of defense ...
Defense Attorney information
See Kentucky salary details
$30K - $41.1K
3% of jobs
$41.1K - $52.2K
1% of jobs
$52.2K - $63.2K
2% of jobs
$63.2K - $74.3K
16% of jobs
$75.6K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$74.3K - $85.4K
25% of jobs
The median wage is $87.1K / yr.
$85.4K - $96.5K
18% of jobs
$106.8K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$96.5K - $107.6K
11% of jobs
$107.6K - $118.7K
8% of jobs
$118.7K - $129.8K
5% of jobs
$129.8K - $140.9K
5% of jobs
$140.9K - $152K
5% of jobs
$30K
$94.7K
$152K
How much do defense attorney jobs pay per year?
As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for defense attorney in Kentucky is $94,690.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,600.00 and $111,200.00 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?
| Aspect | Defense Attorney | Public Defender |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | Jurisdiction-specific law degree, bar license | Jurisdiction-specific law degree, bar license |
| Work Environment | Private law firms, solo practices, or corporate settings | Government offices, public defender's offices |
| Employer & Industry | Private clients, law firms, corporations | Government-funded legal aid services |
| Common Search Intent | Legal defense for clients in criminal cases | Legal 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.
More about Defense Attorney jobs
What are popular job titles related to Defense Attorney jobs in Kentucky?
For Defense Attorney jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Defense Attorney jobs in Kentucky look for?
The top searched job categories for Defense Attorney jobs in Kentucky are:
What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Defense Attorney jobs?
Cities in Kentucky with the most Defense Attorney job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Defense Attorney jobs in KY?
For Defense Attorney jobs in KY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Criminal Defense Attorney
On-site
$100 - $140/hr
Other
Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO
Posted 10 days ago
Job description
Stewart MacNichols Harmell, Inc., P.S. (SMH) is a prominent 20-attorney law firm based in King County, Washington. Our dynamic practice spans criminal defense, civil litigation, and appellate practice. We pride ourselves on delivering aggressive, client-centered defense while fostering a collaborative, supportive environment where associates build real courtroom experience from day one.
Position OverviewAre you a dedicated attorney with a passion for litigation and constitutional rights? SMH is seeking a driven Criminal Defense Associate Attorney (0–6 years experience) to join our expanding practice in King County.
Whether you are a recent law school graduate eager to step directly into the courtroom or an experienced associate looking to elevate your trial practice, this role offers hands-on mentorship, comprehensive training, and immediate direct representation responsibilities.
Key Responsibilities- Courtroom Advocacy & Trial Practice: Represent clients regularly in district and municipal courts for arraignments, pre-trial conferences, evidentiary hearings, bench trials, and jury trials.
- Caseload Management: Oversee an active adult misdemeanor criminal defense docket from initial intake through case disposition.
- Client Counseling: Conduct thorough legal consultations, advise clients on legal rights, strategies, potential outcomes, and walk them through every stage of the justice system.
- Investigation & Case Preparation: Review police reports, analyze body-worn camera footage, evaluate forensic evidence, and conduct field investigations to build trial defense theories.
- Motion Practice & Legal Writing: Research, draft, and argue pre-trial suppression motions, motions in limine, and memorandum of authorities.
- Plea Bargaining & Negotiation: Engage in strategic plea negotiations with prosecuting attorneys to obtain dismissed charges, reduced sentences, or diversion programs.
- Bar Admission: Active member in good standing with the Washington State Bar Association (WSBA) (Required).
- Education: Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school with solid academic credentials.
- Core Competencies: Strong legal research and writing skills, confident public speaking, sharp analytical thinking, and effective negotiation abilities.
- Mindset: A genuine commitment to criminal defense advocacy, client empathy, and a strong work ethic in a fast-paced environment.
- Base Salary: $100,000 – $140,000 per year (DOE)
- Healthcare: Comprehensive Medical and Dental Insurance
- Retirement: 401(k) plan with employer matching
- Time Off: Paid Time Off (PTO) package
- Career Growth: Professional development assistance, mentorship programs, and CLE/Bar dues coverage
Bar Admission: Active member in good standing with the Washington State Bar Association (WSBA) (Required).
Education: Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school with solid academic credentials.
Core Competencies: Strong legal research and writing skills, confident public speaking, sharp analytical thinking, and effective negotiation abilities.
Mindset: A genuine commitment to criminal defense advocacy, client empathy, and a strong work ethic in a fast-paced environment.