ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Defensive Attorney Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

W3Global Inc.

Insurance Defense Lawyer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$160K - $180K/yr

Insurance Defense Lawyer Woodland Hills Insurance defense attorneys with 5+ experience in premises liability/bodily injury litigation, slip and falls, assault and battery litigation Capable of ...

Summit Defense

Be Seen First

Criminal Defense Attorney

Oakland, CA · On-site

$85K - $125K/yr

Join a battle-tested criminal defense team, work alongside top attorneys, and make a real impact defending clients' futures. Summit Defense is Northern California's largest exclusively criminal ...

Summit Defense

Be Seen First

Criminal Defense Attorney

Oakland, CA · On-site

$85K - $125K/yr

Join a battle-tested criminal defense team, work alongside top attorneys, and make a real impact defending clients' futures. Summit Defense is Northern California's largest exclusively criminal ...

Jobot

PI Defense Attorney

Irvine, CA · On-site

$170K - $250K/yr

Remote or Hybrid Remote Person Injury Defense Attorney! This Jobot Job is hosted by: Sharon Brown Are you a fit? Easy Apply now by clicking the "Apply Now" button and sending us your resume. Salary ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsDefensive Attorney JobsDefensive Attorney Jobs in California

Defensive Attorney information

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 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 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.

What cities in California are hiring for Defensive Attorney jobs?

Cities in California with the most Defensive Attorney job openings:

Defensive Attorney jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defensive Attorney job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 77% Physical, 13% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution.

Entry-level Criminal Defense Attorney

The United Firm | La Liga Defensora, APC

Rancho Cucamonga, CA

$80K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

We're looking for an admitted attorney for an extremely promising Entry-level Criminal Defense Attorney position in Rancho Cucamonga within a premier law firm with lots of room for growth. This is an opportunity for a dedicated Associate 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 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 the client 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

  • Experience handling criminal cases at the federal, state, and local levels
  • A team player who is open to helping, strategizing, and working with their fellow associates
  • Strong interpersonal skills and a commitment to exceptional client service

Salary: $80,000.00 - $100,000.00 per year

 
Why Join The United Firm | La Liga Defensora, A.P.C.:
 
Here at The United Firm | La Liga Defensora, A.P.C., 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, A.P.C. 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.

Apply