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Defensive Attorney Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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Associate Attorney

Richmond, VA ยท On-site

$85K - $200K/yr

Lead settlement negotiations, including preparing settlement proposals and working directly with insurance companies, defense attorneys, and clients to achieve favorable outcomes. * Client Advocacy:

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Associate Attorney

Richmond, VA ยท On-site

$85K - $200K/yr

Lead settlement negotiations, including preparing settlement proposals and working directly with insurance companies, defense attorneys, and clients to achieve favorable outcomes. * Client Advocacy:

Attorney

Fairfax, VA

$110K - $145K/yr

Attorney Established 35+ Years Premier Firm Seeking Workers' Compensation Associate Attorney for ... This role focuses on workers' compensation defense litigation , representing employers, insurers ...

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Hartel, DeSantis & Murray, LLP , an AV-rated Maryland based litigation law firm focusing on insurance defense and plaintiff personal injury in Maryland, D.C. and Virginia, seeks an associate attorney ...

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Hartel, DeSantis & Murray, LLP , an AV-rated Maryland based litigation law firm focusing on insurance defense and plaintiff personal injury in Maryland, D.C. and Virginia, seeks an associate attorney ...

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Attorney

Roanoke, VA ยท On-site

Miller & Webb, LLP, a small AV rated firm, is growing and seeking an experienced Attorney with work available in the practice areas of Traffic, Criminal Defense, Workers' Compensation and Insurance ...

We are a fast-growing plaintiff personal injury and criminal defense law firm serving clients ... Attorneys are supported by dedicated paralegals, case managers, legal assistants, and medical ...

Workers' Compensation Attorney

Fairfax, VA ยท Remote

$120K - $170K/yr

... Attorney to join a growing team handling sophisticated defense litigation matters ... This role is ideal for a seasoned litigator who values workers' compensation defense client ...

Associate Attorney

Virginia Beach, VA ยท On-site

$100K - $160K/yr

Join a fast-growing litigation team handling complex medical malpractice defense and high-stakes ... Work closely with experienced trial attorneys who are known for strong courtroom results and client ...

Workers' Compensation Attorney

Fairfax, VA ยท Remote

$120K - $170K/yr

... Attorney to join a growing team handling sophisticated defense litigation matters ... This role is ideal for a seasoned litigator who values workers' compensation defense client ...

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Showing results 1-20

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 job categories do people searching Defensive Attorney jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Defensive Attorney jobs in Virginia are:

Associate Attorney - Civil Defense Litigation

Orion Placement

Winchester, VA โ€ข Hybrid

$95K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Pay: $95,000.00 - $130,000.00 per year

Why This Is a Great Opportunity

  • Join a respected litigation team handling meaningful civil defense matters for businesses, insurers, professionals, and institutional clients.
  • Build hands-on litigation experience in a collaborative environment where attorneys are trusted with real responsibility.
  • Work on a variety of defense litigation matters, including insurance defense, professional liability, construction-related disputes, medical malpractice, and general civil litigation.
  • Be part of a team that values strong legal writing, courtroom confidence, practical problem-solving, and client service.
  • Enjoy competitive compensation, bonus opportunity, comprehensive benefits, health insurance, and a 401(k) plan.
  • Grow your litigation career with a firm known for high-quality advocacy and a strong reputation in the defense bar.

Location: This role is based in Winchester, Virginia with an on-site or hybrid schedule. We are open to strong candidates who can appear in Virginia courts and report to the Winchester office as needed.

Note: Candidates must be licensed to practice law in Virginia and comfortable handling litigation matters involving court appearances in Virginia. Defense litigation experience is strongly preferred.

About Us

We are a civil defense litigation firm representing businesses, insurers, professionals, and organizations in complex and high-stakes matters. Our team is known for strong advocacy, practical legal strategy, and a client-first approach. Confidential Employer.

Job Description

  • Handle civil defense litigation matters from case intake through resolution.
  • Draft pleadings, motions, discovery, correspondence, reports, and other litigation documents.
  • Conduct legal research and develop case strategy with partners and senior attorneys.
  • Manage discovery, document review, depositions, hearings, and court appearances.
  • Communicate with clients, opposing counsel, experts, witnesses, and court personnel.
  • Analyze liability, damages, risk exposure, and settlement opportunities.
  • Support insurance defense, professional liability, construction defect, medical malpractice, business litigation, and related civil defense matters.
  • Work collaboratively with attorneys and staff while also taking ownership of assigned cases.

Qualifications

  • Virginia law license required.
  • 2+ years of litigation experience preferred.
  • Civil defense litigation experience strongly preferred.
  • Experience with insurance defense, professional liability, medical malpractice, construction defect, or general civil litigation is a plus.
  • Strong legal writing, research, communication, and analytical skills.
  • Comfortable managing deadlines, court filings, discovery, and client communication.
  • Motivated, professional, team-oriented, and able to work in a fast-paced litigation environment.

Why You Will Love Working Here

  • You will work with experienced litigators who take pride in mentoring, collaboration, and high-quality legal work.
  • You will gain meaningful courtroom, deposition, discovery, motion practice, and client-facing experience.
  • You will be trusted with responsibility while still having support from a knowledgeable litigation team.
  • You will join a stable, respected civil defense practice with strong client relationships and long-term growth potential.
  • You will have the opportunity to build a strong litigation career in a collegial, professional environment.

JPC-1061

Benefits:

  • Dental insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Retirement plan
  • Vision insurance