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Defensive Attorney Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Jobot

Civil Litigation Attorney

Hillsboro, OR · Hybrid

$125K - $150K/yr

Civil Defense // Boutique Law Firm // Apply now! This Jobot Job is hosted by: Megan Bastian Are you ... Attorney to their growing team. An ideal candidate will have previous trial experience and a ...

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Defensive Attorney information

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.

What are popular job titles related to Defensive Attorney jobs in Oregon? For Defensive Attorney jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Defensive Attorney jobs in Oregon look for? The top searched job categories for Defensive Attorney jobs in Oregon are:
What cities in Oregon are hiring for Defensive Attorney jobs? Cities in Oregon with the most Defensive Attorney job openings:
Defensive Attorney jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defensive Attorney job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 73% Physical, 11% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution.

Associate Attorney - Criminal Defense - Dui

Reynolds Defense Firm

Portland, OR • On-site, Remote

$115K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Description
Are you passionate about criminal defense, hardworking, upbeat, and thrive in a collaborative, mission-driven environment? Then you may be the perfect fit to manage meaningful cases and help good people move forward after a DUI.
We are seeking an attorney to lead our Corvallis, OR office. You'll step into a steady but manageable caseload with dedicated legal-assistant support, established firm systems, and above-market compensation and benefits, so you can do your best work for clients while maintaining a full life outside the office.
Why Attorneys Join Reynolds Defense Firm
  • Base salary of $115,000-$150,000, plus performance bonuses and origination incentives
  • 100% employer-paid medical, dental, and life insurance, with FSA/DCA available
  • 401(k) with 3% employer contribution after one year
  • Three weeks of paid vacation (increases with tenure) and 40 hours of sick leave
  • Work-from-home flexibility after 90 days
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Caseload of 25-40 active matters, fully supported by legal staff
  • A culture that takes work-life balance seriously, with a team-first attitude where shared expertise and knowledge serve clients best
  • As the largest DUI law firm in the Pacific Northwest, with an exceptional courtroom reputation and established presence in the Portland-Metro area, Willamette Valley, and beyond

Responsibilities
• Lead the Corvallis office, managing a caseload of 25-40 DUI and related criminal defense matters in Benton, Linn, and surrounding Willamette Valley counties
• Represent clients at arraignments, motions, hearings, and trials; draft motions and conduct legal research
• Handle DMV implied-consent hearings and license-suspension matters
• Mentor junior attorneys and contribute to office leadership
• Participate in ongoing DUI-defense continuing legal education
• Optionally, build a referral base using the firm's established business-development systems
Qualifications
Required
• J.D. from an ABA-accredited law school
• Active membership in the Oregon State Bar in good standing
• Minimum of two (2) years (five or more preferred) of criminal law experience (defense, prosecution, judicial clerkship), including trial experience
• DUI defense and/or felony case experience
• Sound judgment and courtroom composure under pressure
• Ability to counsel clients with clarity and compassion; execute case strategies aligned with their goals
Preferred
• Experience in Willamette Valley, Eugene-area, Coastal, or Portland-metro courts
• Spanish-language fluency
• Demonstrated mentoring or management/leadership experience

Apply