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Defensive Attorney Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

... seeking qualified attorneys. While open to candidates across practice areas, the firm is ... defense contracting, public finance, bankruptcy, and commercial real estate. The successful ...

... Defense and Administrative Law • If you want to work in a PL Defense and Admin Law firm, then ... A timeline of events is a great way for the attorney assigned to the case to refer back to what ...

Litigation Paralegal

Raleigh, NC · On-site +1

$25 - $34/hr

If you want to work in a PL Defense and Admin Law firm, then this is the firm! * If you are ... A timeline of events is a great way for the attorney assigned to the case to refer back to what ...

Litigation Paralegal

Raleigh, NC · Hybrid

$25 - $34/hr

If you want to work in a PL Defense and Admin Law firm, then this is the firm! * If you are ... A timeline of events is a great way for the attorney assigned to the case to refer back to what ...

Litigation Associate

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$180K - $200K/yr

This role is ideal for an attorney who thrives in a fast-paced environment and seeks strong career ... Mass Tort Defense Key Responsibilities * Manage litigation matters from inception through ...

Administrative Specialist

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$45.20K - $61.20K/yr

S. Attorney, other DOJ processing units, and higher headquarters. * Extract data from agency ... Defense and Civilian agencies. OFS specializes in Business Intelligence, Acquisition and ...

Administrative Specialist

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$45.20K - $61.20K/yr

S. Attorney, other DOJ processing units, and higher headquarters. * Extract data from agency ... Defense and Civilian agencies. OFS specializes in Business Intelligence, Acquisition and ...

Effective interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills to interact professionally with internal stakeholders, defense counsel, claimants, attorneys, regulators, and vendors, including in ...

Effective interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills to interact professionally with internal stakeholders, defense counsel, claimants, attorneys, regulators, and vendors, including in ...

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Defensive Attorney information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$44.7K

$105.1K

$167.7K

How much do defensive attorney jobs pay per year?

As of May 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for defensive attorney in Raleigh, NC is $105,140.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,800.00 and $126,400.00 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 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 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 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 Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Defensive Attorney jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Defensive Attorney jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Defensive Attorney job openings:

Experienced Business Litigation Attorney - Any Office

Sands Anderson

Durham, NC

$200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

Job Description:

Sands Anderson is a full-service, mid-sized law firm serving the Mid-Atlantic region, with continued growth in several key practice areas. We have deep experience in government representation, business representation, and litigation defense.

Our firm is built on a strong sense of collaboration and community. We are a close-knit team of legal professionals who value cultural alignment and believe that the right fit is essential to long-term success. Attorneys who join Sands Anderson benefit from meaningful support, shared resources, and opportunities for professional growth at every stage of their careers. We are currently seeking lateral attorneys with a portable client base who are interested in building their practice within a collaborative and supportive environment.

We also embrace career agility. Our culture encourages teamwork, mutual respect, and continuous learning which creates a workplace where attorneys are motivated to grow, contribute, and succeed together.

Job Requirements:

  • JD from an ABA approved law school
  • Active license to practice law in VA and/or NC
  • Entrepreneurial drive and desire to build client base
  • To start the conversation, you should expect that you have portable book of business or proof of originating business at $200,000 annually or more.

At Sands Anderson, we provide a comprehensive employee benefits package to full time benefit eligible employees which includes:

  • 401K with Firm Matching Contribution
  • Employee Assistance Services
  • Health Savings Account with Firm Contribution
  • Holiday Pay
  • Hybrid Work Schedule
  • Life Insurance and Accidental Death and Dismemberment Coverage
  • Malpractice Insurance
  • Marketing Allowance and Support
  • Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
  • Medical Care and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Program
  • Paid Parking
  • Paid Time Off
  • Professional Dues and Continuing Education Allowance
  • Short and Long Term Disability Insurance
  • Smart Phone Allowance
  • Wellness Program

Please apply to start the confidential conversation now!

Sands Anderson PC is an equal opportunity employer. Sands Anderson is a drug free workplace.

NOTICE TO SEARCH FIRMS: Firms that wish to present candidates to Sands Anderson PC must have an active agreement in place. Firms will not be entitled to receive any compensation as a result of a decision by Sands Anderson PC to offer employment to any such candidate unless an active agreement is in place between our law firm and your search firm, and then only on the terms, and subject to the conditions, contained in our agreement. All search firm candidates should be submitted via the Search Firm Portal. Search firms that do not introduce a candidate through our portal will not be recognized by Sands Anderson PC for purposes of “ownership” of the candidate. For questions or access to the portal, please contact Liz Coleman, Director of Talent Acquisition