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Defensive Attorney Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Criminal Defense Attorney

Los Angeles, CA

$100K - $250K/yr

Associate Attorney, Criminal Defense Attorney Location: Sherman Oaks Compensation: Base+ $100,000 or more (DOE) Benefits: Medical/Dental/Vision/401k/PTO Requirements: * Juris Doctor (JD) and licensed ...

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$46K

$108.2K

$172.5K

How much do defensive attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for defensive attorney in the United States is $108,160.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,000.00 and $130,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Defensive Attorney, you need a law degree, a license to practice, and a strong foundation in criminal or civil law, legal research, and courtroom procedures. Familiarity with legal research databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis, case management software, and continuing legal education certifications is important. Outstanding analytical thinking, negotiation, and persuasive communication skills set successful attorneys apart. These abilities ensure effective representation of clients, strategic case management, and positive outcomes in complex legal matters.

What does a defensive attorney do?

A defensive attorney, also known as a defense attorney or defense lawyer, represents individuals or organizations accused of criminal offenses. Their primary responsibility is to protect the legal rights of their clients, provide legal counsel, and develop a defense strategy to ensure a fair trial. This includes investigating the case, negotiating plea deals, representing clients in court, and challenging evidence presented by the prosecution. Defensive attorneys play a crucial role in the justice system by ensuring that every defendant receives adequate representation and due process.

What are some common challenges a defensive attorney faces when preparing for trial?

Defensive attorneys often encounter challenges such as managing large volumes of evidence, ensuring thorough client communication, and anticipating prosecution strategies. Coordinating with investigators and expert witnesses can also be complex, requiring strong organizational and analytical skills. Additionally, balancing a high caseload while adhering to strict court deadlines is a frequent challenge, making time management and prioritization essential for success in this role.

What is the difference between Defensive Attorney vs Criminal Defense Lawyer?

AspectDefensive AttorneyCriminal Defense Lawyer
CredentialsJurisdiction-specific law degree, bar licenseJurisdiction-specific law degree, bar license
Work EnvironmentCourts, law firms, private practiceCourts, law firms, private practice
Industry UsageLegal defense in criminal casesLegal defense in criminal cases
Common Search IntentDefensive Attorney vs Criminal Defense LawyerDefensive Attorney vs Criminal Defense Lawyer

Both Defensive Attorneys and Criminal Defense Lawyers are legal professionals specializing in defending clients accused of crimes. While the terms are often used interchangeably, 'Defensive Attorney' emphasizes the role of defending clients in court, whereas 'Criminal Defense Lawyer' explicitly indicates a focus on criminal cases. Both require similar credentials and work in comparable environments, serving clients within the criminal justice system.

More about Defensive Attorney jobs
What cities are hiring for Defensive Attorney jobs? Cities with the most Defensive Attorney job openings:
What states have the most Defensive Attorney jobs? States with the most job openings for Defensive Attorney jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Defensive Attorney jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Defensive Attorney jobs are:
Defensive Attorney jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defensive Attorney job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 73% Physical, 11% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,160 per year, or $52 per hour.

Criminal Defense Attorney

The United Firm | La Liga Defensora, APC

Fresno, CA

$80K - $120K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

We're looking for an admitted attorney for an extremely promising Criminal Defense Attorney position in Fresno within a premier law firm with lots of room for growth. This is an opportunity for a dedicated Criminal Defense Attorney to gain valuable experience and further their career with an established firm. As the Criminal Defense Attorney, you will report to the Managing Criminal Defense Attorney. The Associate Attorney will manage their caseload, as well as client interaction, and can collaborate with our wonderful Criminal Defense Team of Attorneys and legal assistants.

Responsibilities

  • Advise clients on their legal rights in matters and draw up legal documents about their case
  • Attend pretrial hearings on behalf of clients and advise clients following each hearing about the best strategies
  • Manage court appearances, trials, drafting motions, interviewing witnesses, and performing legal research
  • Analyze probable outcomes of cases using knowledge of legal precedents
  • Manage the workload of cases
  • Provide legal analysis for clients to determine any possible case benefits
  • Accrue additional evidence to support the client's case or for arguments against the prosecution's charges
  • Prepare clients for depositions; determine essential goals of case strategy and gather information from witnesses and important experts that support the client's positions

Qualifications

  • At least 3 years of Criminal Defense Experience
  • Experience handling complex criminal cases at the federal, state, and local levels
  • A team player who is open to helping, strategizing, and working with our fellow associates
  • Bilingual (English/Spanish) is preferred, but not required 
  • Interpersonal skills of the highest caliber

Pay Range: $80,000.00 to $120,000.00

Pay may be higher depending on case-by-case evaluations.

Here at The United Firm | La Liga Defensora, APC we offer excellent benefits (medical, dental, and vision insurance), an attractive compensation package, paid parking, paid time off, and more! As a Criminal Defense Attorney, you will have the opportunity to advance your career while learning alongside a team of professionals within the legal industry.

The United Firm | La Liga Defensora, APC is an equal employment opportunity employer. We welcome applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or genetics. We are committed to maintaining an inclusive and diverse work environment.

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