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Defensive Attorney Jobs in Utah (NOW HIRING)

Strong & Hanni

Litigation Attorney

Sandy, UT · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Strong and Hanni Law Firm Insurance Defense Litigation Attorney Strong and Hanni has an opportunity for an Associate Litigation Attorney in one of our insurance defense litigation practices. This ...

Strong & Hanni

Litigation Attorney

Sandy, UT · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Strong and Hanni Law Firm Insurance Defense Litigation Attorney Strong and Hanni has an opportunity for an Associate Litigation Attorney in one of our insurance defense litigation practices. This ...

Keen Law Offices, LLC

Litigation Attorney

Provo, UT · On-site

Company Description Keen Law Offices, LLC focuses on immigration and criminal defense matters ... The Litigation Attorney will manage a caseload involving immigration and criminal defense matters ...

Pollart Miller LLC

Attorney

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

$112K - $125K/yr

Utah Licensed Attorneys Pollart Miller LLC is an established law firm with offices in Arizona ... Have the ability to multi-task in the fast pace of workers' compensation defense. * Multi-state ...

Campos Law Firm LLC

Associate Attorney

Sandy, UT

$80K - $110K/yr

Manage a significant caseload involving high-level and high-asset family law or criminal defense ... We are seeking an attorney in Family Law, Criminal Law, and Personal Injury. * Maintain clear and ...

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Defensive Attorney information

How much do most 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 $120,000 annually, with experienced attorneys or those in large firms earning higher salaries. Many defense attorneys also handle complex cases that can impact their income levels.

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.

How to make $500,000 as a lawyer?

A defensive attorney can reach a $500,000 income by gaining extensive experience, building a strong reputation, and handling high-profile or complex cases that command higher fees. Specializing in lucrative areas such as criminal defense or corporate law, obtaining advanced certifications, and working in large firms or private practice can also increase earning potential.

Do lawyers make $500,000 a year?

Defensive attorneys, like other lawyers, can earn high salaries, but making $500,000 annually is uncommon and typically reserved for experienced attorneys in specialized fields or those in large firms. Most lawyers' incomes vary based on experience, location, and practice area, with many earning significantly less than that amount.

Are defense attorneys in demand?

Defense attorneys are generally in steady demand due to ongoing needs for legal representation in criminal cases. Employment opportunities can vary based on location, experience, and specialization, with job growth often aligned with overall criminal justice system trends and court caseloads.

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 Utah? For Defensive Attorney jobs in Utah, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Defensive Attorney jobs in Utah look for? The top searched job categories for Defensive Attorney jobs in Utah are:
Defensive Attorney jobs near you

Assistant Appellate Defense Attorney

Utah Division of Human Resource Management

Salt Lake City, UT • On-site

$46 - $52/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

ASSISTANTAPPELLATE DEFENSE ATTORNEY
The Utah IndigentAppellate Defense Division (IADD) within the Utah Office of Indigent DefenseServices are seeking an Assistant Appellate Defense Attorney for a uniqueopportunity to play a critical role in shaping Utah's criminal law and ensuringthat people's constitutional right to appeal is protected. As an AssistantAppellate Defense Attorney, you will manage a caseload of approximately 15-18appeals per year, reporting to the Criminal Appeals Division Head.
In this fast-paced anddynamic office, you will be on the front lines of challenging complex legallandscape shifts-from fighting unconstitutional sentences, improper propensityevidence, and unlawful seizures to ensuring every client receives the effectiveassistance of counsel, impartial juries, and accurate jury instructions.
POSITION DETAILS& COMMITMENT
-Salary - $46.00 - $52.00/hr
-FT/PT Status - Full-Time
-Work Format - Hybrid (At least two days in person - 370 E South Temple, Suite 500, Salt Lake City, UT 84111; attendance at both virtual and in-person meetings; state-wide travel required)
-Schedule Code - AC - Employees in Offices of Elected Officials
-Background Check Required - You must successfully pass a criminal history check.
-Application Deadline - 6:00 PM (MDT) on July 2, 2026
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Zealously and compassionately advocate on behalf of clients at every stage of the appellate proceeding.
  • Prepare adult criminal appeals by conducting legal research, reviewing case files and court records, and meeting with clients (you may also be asked to assist in juvenile delinquency, child welfare, and postconviction appeals).
  • Litigate Rule 4(f) (Manning) motions in the district court to reinstate deprived appellate rights, and draft Rule 23B motions to develop factual records for ineffective assistance of counsel claims.
  • Ensure clients are consistently heard, respected, and represented without judgment.
  • Draft appellate briefs and petitions for writ of certiorari, and argue cases before the Utah Court of Appeals and the Utah Supreme Court.
  • Collaborate with your peers by editing and reviewing appellate briefs filed by other attorneys in the office.
  • Assist the Division in drafting amicus briefs.
  • Help develop and implement continuing legal education (CLE) training for trial and appellate attorneys around the state regarding criminal law, criminal procedure, and appellate strategy.

THE IDEAL QUALIFICATIONS
  • Minimum Requirements: J.D. from an accredited law school. Must be an active member in good standing of the Utah Bar (or active in another state bar and eligible for admission by motion into the Utah Bar). Must possess excellent oral and written communication skills and a deep interest in indigent defense.
  • Experience Level: Experienced appellate attorneys are strongly preferred, but we enthusiastically welcome and encourage passionate new attorneys to apply. We are looking for advocates who are eager to learn and dedicated to client-centered defense. The rate of pay will depend on the years of experience practicing appellate law deemed applicable to the position.
  • Ideal Candidate Traits: An understanding of the requirements for appellate representation in the adult criminal legal system in Utah, including a proven ability to navigate complex preservation hurdles by skillfully arguing plain error, structural error, and the exceptional circumstances doctrine. Law Review experience, an appellate clerkship, and fluency in Spanish are all considered major pluses.

WHY YOU SHOULD JOINOUR TEAM
Working with IADD givesyou direct, hands-on appellate experience alongside a hard-working, passionateteam with diverse expertise. Whether you are fighting a non-merit proceduraldismissal, litigating a structural error, or helping trial attorneys avoidpreservation traps, this is a position with immense capacity to grow yourprofessional skills, capabilities, and commitment to justice. The State ofUtah offers a highly competitive benefits package. Click HERE to review.
(Please submit an Application through this website with your Resume and Email your References and Two Writing Samples to IADD@utah.gov).
WHO WE ARE
IADD, within the Officeof Indigent Defense Services, is the only statewide appellate office servingindigent people in Utah. Our mission is to protect and defend the rightsand dignity of each of our clients through zealous, compassionate, andclient-centered advocacy. We provide appellate defense services to indigentindividuals in third through sixth-class counties, focusing on adult criminalappeals, juvenile delinquency, and child welfare/parental termination cases.
EEO STATEMENTThe State of Utah is committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, or Veteran status. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements. For accommodations, please contact (801) 957-9390.
Recruiter - Sarah Humphries; shumphries@utah.gov

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