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Defense Attorney Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

LHH US

Insurance Defense Attorney

Troy, MI

$150K - $200K/yr

This full time position is ideal for an attorney who enjoys managing litigation matters, developing defense strategies, and representing clients in a variety of insurance related disputes. The role ...

LHH US

Insurance Defense Attorney

Troy, MI

$150K - $200K/yr

This full time position is ideal for an attorney who enjoys managing litigation matters, developing defense strategies, and representing clients in a variety of insurance related disputes. The role ...

Law Firm

Attorney - Insurance Defense

Troy, MI · On-site

$90K - $115K/yr

Established and growing law firm located in Troy seeks an insurance defense attorney to join our team. Key Responsibilities: * Handle all aspects of Michigan No-Fault and insurance defense litigation ...

NJ CURE

Insurance Defense Attorney

Southfield, MI · On-site

$100K - $160K/yr

Insurance Defense Attorney CURE Auto Insurance is a leading direct writer of auto insurance in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Michigan. CURE offers a great working environment, competitive salary, and ...

CURE Auto Insurance

BI Defense Attorney

Southfield, MI · On-site

$100K - $160K/yr

Bodily Injury Defense Attorney (Internal Claims Counsel - Litigation) CURE Auto Insurance is a leading direct writer of auto insurance in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Michigan. CURE offers a great ...

K2 Ascend

Aerospace and Defense Attorney

Detroit, MI

Aerospace & Defense Attorney Location: Detroit, Troy, Ann Arbor, Lansing, Grand Rapids, or Washington, D.C. Type: Full-Time, Hybrid Compensation: Flexible depending on experience, practice focus, and ...

NJ CURE

Senior Insurance Defense Attorney

Southfield, MI · On-site

$130K - $160K/yr

Senior Insurance Defense Attorney CURE Auto Insurance is a leading direct writer of auto insurance in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Michigan. CURE offers a great working environment, competitive ...

Zausmer, P.C.

Associate Attorney

Farmington Hills, MI · On-site

Insurance Defense Attorney with 2+ years of experience These positions require candidates who are highly motivated with excellent academic credentials and writing skills. Committed to innovating and ...

Orion Placement

PIP Attorney

Farmington Hills, MI · Hybrid

$100K - $160K/yr

Join a leading Michigan insurance defense team handling complex first-party, third-party, PIP ... Collaborate with seasoned attorneys in a supportive, mentorship-driven environment. * Work in a ...

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All JobsDefense Attorney JobsDefense Attorney Jobs in Michigan

Defense Attorney information

See Michigan salary details

$30.1K

$95K

$152.5K

How much do defense attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for defense attorney in Michigan is $95,025.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,800.00 and $111,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do most defense attorneys make?

Most defense attorneys earn a median annual salary of around $63,000 to $125,000, depending on experience, location, and whether they work in private practice or for the government. Experienced attorneys in large firms or specialized fields can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $150,000 annually.

Do lawyers make $500,000 a year?

Defense attorneys' salaries vary widely based on experience, location, and the type of cases they handle. While some top-tier or highly experienced defense lawyers in large firms or high-profile cases can earn $500,000 or more annually, most defense attorneys earn between $60,000 and $150,000 per year. Achieving higher earnings often requires specialization, a strong reputation, and working in lucrative markets.

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.

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 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.

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 to make $500,000 as a lawyer?

Defense attorneys can earn $500,000 or more annually by gaining extensive experience, specializing in high-profile or complex cases, and working in large firms or private practice. Building a strong reputation, developing specialized skills, and handling high-stakes cases can increase earning potential significantly.
More about Defense Attorney jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Defense Attorney jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Defense Attorney jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Defense Attorney jobs in Michigan? For Defense Attorney jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Defense Attorney jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Defense Attorney jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Defense Attorney jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Defense Attorney job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Defense Attorney jobs in MI? For Defense Attorney jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Defense Attorney jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defense Attorney job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 8% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,025 per year, or $45.7 per hour.

Insurance Defense Attorney

LHH US

Troy, MI

$150K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

LHH Recruitment Solutions is partnering with a respected law firm to recruit an insurance defense attorney. This full time position is ideal for an attorney who enjoys managing litigation matters, developing defense strategies, and representing clients in a variety of insurance related disputes. The role offers the opportunity to handle a diverse caseload while working closely with clients, carriers, and experienced legal professionals.
Key Responsibilities
• Manage insurance defense matters from initial case assessment through resolution
• Draft pleadings, motions, briefs, discovery requests, and discovery responses
• Conduct legal research and prepare memoranda on complex legal issues
• Take and defend depositions of parties, witnesses, and experts
• Attend court appearances, case management conferences, mediations, arbitrations, and hearings
• Evaluate liability, damages, and litigation exposure to develop effective defense strategies
• Communicate regularly with insurance carriers, clients, opposing counsel, and expert witnesses
• Prepare detailed case evaluations, status reports, and litigation budgets
• Assist with trial preparation including witness preparation, exhibit management, and trial strategy
• Maintain compliance with court deadlines and client reporting requirements
Qualifications
• Juris Doctor degree and active admission to the state bar
• Prior experience handling insurance defense matters in a law firm environment
• Strong litigation experience including motion practice, discovery, and depositions
• Excellent legal research, writing, and analytical skills
• Ability to manage multiple cases and deadlines in a fast paced environment
• Strong communication and client relationship management skills
• Experience working with insurance carriers and claims professionals preferred
• Proficiency with legal research platforms, case management systems, and Microsoft Office
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with attorneys and support staff
Preferred Experience
• Experience defending matters involving general liability, professional liability, premises liability, construction defect, transportation, or other insurance related claims
• Courtroom experience and participation in mediations or arbitrations
• Ability to evaluate risk, negotiate settlements, and develop practical litigation strategies
This posting is a representative sample of the types of roles we typically place with our clients.
Benefits:
Depending on the specific client, location, and role, the benefits may include PTO, medical, dental, vision, term life and AD&D insurance, short-term disability and long-term disability, additional voluntary benefits, EAP program, commuter benefits, wellness plans, and a 401k plan or a non-qualified deferred compensation plan. Additionally, you may be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or other paid leave required by Federal, State, or local law, as well as Holiday pay where applicable. Bonus eligibility and amount are based upon company and/or individual performance.
Pay Details: $150,000.00 to $200,000.00 per year
Search managed by: R. Caleb Doyle
Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled
Military connected talent encouraged to apply
To read our Candidate Privacy Information Statement, which explains how we will use your information, please navigate to https://www.lhh.com/us/en/candidate-privacy
The Company will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in accordance with federal, state, and local laws and/or security clearance requirements, including, as applicable:
  • The California Fair Chance Act
  • Los Angeles City Fair Chance Ordinance
  • Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers
  • San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance
Massachusetts Candidates Only: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.