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Defense Attorney Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Garza Law Firm PLLC

Criminal Defense Attorney

Johnson City, TN · On-site

$76K - $101K/yr

The Criminal Defense Attorney exists to provide our clients with legal advice and representation on charges related to criminal acts of varying levels, ranging from misdemeanors to felonies. This ...

Michael & Associates, Attorneys at Law

$72K - $96K/yr

Sales/Intake Attorney - Criminal Defense | Michael & Associates, Tennessee Michael & Associates is revolutionizing the criminal defense sector in Tennessee. Building upon our significant growth and ...

Spicer Rudstrom, PLLC

Associate Attorney

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

We are seeking a 2-6 year associate attorney to join our Chattanooga office. This role is ideal for ... insurance defense a plus) * Licensed in Tennessee * Strong writing and communication skills

Hall Booth Smith, P.C

Associate Attorney

Nashville, TN · On-site

$125K - $150K/yr

Prior experience in insurance defense is essential. Candidates must be active members in good standing of the Nashville Bar. Salary Range: $125k-$150k depending on experience (plus benefits) and ...

Hall Booth Smith, P.C.

Associate Attorney

Nashville, TN · On-site

$125K - $150K/yr

C. (HBS) is seeking an Associate Attorney to join their expanding (defense litigation practice ... Prior experience in insurance defense is essential. Candidates must be active members in good ...

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Defense Attorney information

See Tennessee salary details

$31.3K

$99K

$158.8K

How much do defense attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for defense attorney in Tennessee is $98,952.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,000.00 and $116,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do defense attorneys make?

Defense attorneys' salaries vary based on experience, location, and whether they work in private practice or for the government. On average, they earn between $60,000 and $130,000 annually, with experienced attorneys and those in large firms or urban areas earning higher wages. Many defense attorneys also handle complex cases that require strong negotiation and courtroom skills.

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 is the most a defense attorney can make?

The salary of a defense attorney varies widely based on experience, location, and whether they work in private practice or for the government. Experienced defense attorneys in private practice can earn over $200,000 annually, while those in public defense roles typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 per year. High-profile or specialized attorneys may earn even more through case success and reputation.

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 the ability to handle complex legal cases, with job stability often linked to court caseloads and legal reforms.
More about Defense Attorney jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Defense Attorney jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of Defense Attorney jobs in Tennessee are:
What are popular job titles related to Defense Attorney jobs in Tennessee? For Defense Attorney jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Defense Attorney jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Defense Attorney jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Defense Attorney jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Defense Attorney job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Defense Attorney jobs in TN? For Defense Attorney jobs in TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Defense Attorney jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defense Attorney job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,952 per year, or $47.6 per hour.

Criminal Defense Attorney

Garza Law Firm, PLLC

Johnson City, TN • On-site

$76K - $101K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Description:

The Garza Law Firm’s Criminal Defense Attorney is a position supporting the Criminal Division of the Firm. The Criminal Defense Attorney exists to provide our clients with legal advice and representation on charges related to criminal acts of varying levels, ranging from misdemeanors to felonies. This position collaborates with clients, peer attorneys, and fellow team support members to be a driving force to ensure our clients’ representation needs are met with fair and unbiased advocacy in criminal matters. This position requires a Juris Doctorate (J.D.) degree, admission to the Tennessee State Bar, and good standing with the Tennessee Board of Professional Responsibility.

Requirements:

Responsibilities

  • Criminal Legal Practice: Personally handle assigned criminal cases from initial new client meetings through local and federal court appearances. Handle extensive client interaction, including intake review and ongoing client contact. Prepare clients for hearings, appear in court for arraignments, appear for pretrial conferences, prepare for status dates, appear for law and/or motion hearings, negotiate or settle cases, manage case development, and prepare matters for jury trial as required.
  • New Potential Client Appointments: Review intake details provided by New Potential Clients to understand and determine the viability of the case, quote pricing for representation, create a contract, and work with the Criminal Support Team (Paralegals and Legal Assistants) to provide ongoing updates to Clients on case developments.
  • Selling & Contractual Agreements: Consistently practices being available to take New Potential appointments, is knowledgeable about how to sell Garza Law capabilities, appropriately quotes clients based on knowledge of casework required and their financial situation, obtains down payments, and works with clients to clearly communicate payment plans.
  • Legal Documentation: With the assistance of the Criminal Support Team, draft legal and motion pleadings and present those statements of law, facts, and arguments clearly, logically, and effectively both written and orally.
  • Legal Research and Strategy: Perform legal research, review analysis, and apply legal principles and precedents to create the best legal strategy when positioning facts and evidence on behalf of Clients.
  • Case Documentation: Document and monitor case updates via Lead Docket and Filevine Tasks to ensure case files are properly maintained and tasks are completed on time.

Work Experience

Required:

  • Proficient with Microsoft 365 Suite applications.
  • Familiarity with various software and other systems used for case and client management (e.g. Filevine, Vine Sign, Law Pay, Lead Docket, DocGen, etc.).
  • 1-3 years of previous criminal law experience.

Preferred:

  • 1-3 years of experience working in a small to medium law firm.
  • 1-3 years of previous criminal hearings and/or trial experience.

Education / Certifications / Qualifications / Success Traits

Required:

  • Must possess a Juris Doctoral degree and be licensed to practice law in the State of Tennessee in good standing.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills used in a professional setting.
  • Has experience quoting and selling clients on the value they will receive, obtaining financial deposits, and handling contractual agreements.
  • Professionally represents Garza Law Firm during all interactions with the public.
  • Can handle large case volumes of work in a high-paced work environment.
  • Periodic travel to various counties for legal hearings.
  • Ensure Accountability: Takes responsibility for their work and the firm's performance. Owns commitments and shows a willingness to answer for their actions without being defensive or shifting blame.
  • Client Focus: Intentionally seeks to understand Client needs. Proactively identifies opportunities to serve or create a benefit to the Client. Looks to exceed Client expectations by creating delight. Establishes and maintains effective Client relationships.
  • Situational Adaptability: Rebounds from setbacks vs. emotionally responding with drama. Is confident under pressure. Handles and manages change or crises effectively. Maintains a positive attitude despite adversity. Grows from hardships and negative experiences. Understands how to be effective with various audiences.
  • Action Oriented: Readily takes action on challenges, without unnecessary delay. Identifies and seizes new opportunities. Displays a can-do attitude in good and bad times. Steps up to handle tough issues without avoidance or creating isolation for any party involved.

Preferred:

  • Conversational Spanish fluency as a second language.

Success Measures / KPIs

  • Sign at least 20 (+/-) new criminal clients per month.
  • Obtaining 50% of quoted fees at the point of signing New Potential Clients.
  • Ensure that 90% of Clients are met within 10 minutes of appointment arrival time.
  • Ensure that 80% of all Clients have been communicated with within 90 days and that their files are accurately updated on an ongoing basis.

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