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Defensive Attorney Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Latitude Inc

Criminal Defense Attorney

San Jose, CA · On-site

$130K - $250K/yr

Criminal Defense Attorney Location: San Jose, CA Position Overview: We are seeking an experienced Criminal Defense Attorney to join our team and represent clients in a wide range of criminal matters.

PSI

Insurance Defense Attorney

San Diego, CA · Remote

PSI is seeking a skilled Insurance Defense Attorney to join our growing legal team in San Diego. The ideal candidate will have a solid background in insurance defense and litigation, with experience ...

PSI

Insurance Defense Attorney

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

PSI is seeking a skilled Insurance Defense Attorney to join our growing legal team in Los Angeles. The ideal candidate will have a solid background in insurance defense and litigation, with ...

Kosmos

Insurance Defense Attorney

Los Angeles, CA · Remote

PSI is seeking a skilled Insurance Defense Attorney to join our growing legal team in Los Angeles. The ideal candidate will have a solid background in insurance defense and litigation, with ...

PSI

Insurance Defense Attorney

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

PSI is seeking a skilled Insurance Defense Attorney to join our growing legal team in San Diego. The ideal candidate will have a solid background in insurance defense and litigation, with experience ...

PSI

Insurance Defense Attorney

Irvine, CA · On-site

PSI is seeking a skilled Insurance Defense Attorney to join our growing legal team in Irvine. The ideal candidate will have a solid background in insurance defense and litigation, with experience in ...

PSI

Insurance Defense Attorney

Los Angeles, CA · Remote

PSI is seeking a skilled Insurance Defense Attorney to join our growing legal team in Los Angeles. The ideal candidate will have a solid background in insurance defense and litigation, with ...

PSI

Insurance Defense Attorney

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

PSI is seeking a skilled Insurance Defense Attorney to join our growing legal team in San Diego. The ideal candidate will have a solid background in insurance defense and litigation, with experience ...

PSI

Insurance Defense Attorney

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

PSI is seeking a skilled Insurance Defense Attorney to join our growing legal team in Los Angeles. The ideal candidate will have a solid background in insurance defense and litigation, with ...

PSI

Insurance Defense Attorney

Irvine, CA · Remote

PSI is seeking a skilled Insurance Defense Attorney to join our growing legal team in Irvine. The ideal candidate will have a solid background in insurance defense and litigation, with experience in ...

PSI

Insurance Defense Attorney

Irvine, CA · On-site

PSI is seeking a skilled Insurance Defense Attorney to join our growing legal team in Irvine. The ideal candidate will have a solid background in insurance defense and litigation, with experience in ...

Kosmos

Insurance Defense Attorney

Mission Viejo, CA · Remote

PSI is seeking a skilled Insurance Defense Attorney to join our growing legal team in Mission Viejo. The ideal candidate will have a solid background in insurance defense and litigation, with ...

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Defensive Attorney information

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$46K

$108.2K

$172.5K

How much do defensive attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for defensive attorney in the United States is $108,160.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,000.00 and $130,000.00 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 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.

More about Defensive Attorney jobs
What cities are hiring for Defensive Attorney jobs? Cities with the most Defensive Attorney job openings:
What states have the most Defensive Attorney jobs? States with the most job openings for Defensive Attorney jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Defensive Attorney jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Defensive Attorney jobs are:
Defensive Attorney jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defensive Attorney job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,160 per year, or $52 per hour.
Criminal Defense Attorney

Criminal Defense Attorney

Latitude Inc

San Jose, CA • On-site

$130K - $250K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Criminal Defense Attorney
Location: San Jose, CA

Position Overview:
We are seeking an experienced Criminal Defense Attorney to join our team and represent clients in a wide range of criminal matters. The ideal candidate will be a great communicator who is skilled at client intake, case assessment, and building trust with clients from the outset. This role requires a strong courtroom presence, exceptional trial experience, and a proven track record in criminal defense.

Key Responsibilities:
Conduct client intake, case evaluations, and provide clear guidance on legal options and strategies.
Represent clients in all phases of criminal defense, including arraignments, hearings, plea negotiations, and trials.
Prepare legal documents, motions, and briefs with precision and attention to detail.
Develop effective defense strategies and maintain strong communication with clients throughout their cases.
Manage a caseload independently while collaborating with other attorneys and support staff as needed.
Stay up to date on California criminal law, procedural rules, and case precedents.

Qualifications:
J.D. from an accredited law school.
Active license to practice law in California, in good standing.
Minimum of 5 years of criminal defense experience, including significant trial work.
Strong oral advocacy skills, with proven ability to present persuasive arguments in court.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to connect with clients during intake and throughout representation.
Highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple cases simultaneously.

Why Join Us:
Opportunity to handle challenging and meaningful cases.
Collaborative team environment with experienced peers.
Competitive compensation and benefits package.
Commitment to professional growth and work-life balance.
$130,000 - $250,000 a year
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