Entry-Level Criminal Defense Attorney

Job Overview: An established law firm in Sacramento is seeking an entry-level attorney with a keen interest in criminal defense law. This role offers an excellent opportunity for a recent law graduate or newly admitted attorney to gain hands-on experience in the legal field. The attorney will manage a variety of cases, provide legal counsel to clients, and collaborate closely with an experienced team of attorneys and legal assistants. The position allows for significant career growth and provides a collaborative environment for learning and development.

Duties:

• Advise clients on their legal rights and draft relevant legal documents
• Represent clients in pretrial hearings and provide strategic advice based on outcomes
• Handle court appearances, prepare for trial, draft motions, and conduct witness interviews
• Research and analyze case precedents to evaluate possible case outcomes
• Manage a diverse caseload and prioritize tasks effectively
• Conduct legal analysis for clients to identify potential advantages in their cases
• Gather evidence to build client defenses or counter prosecutorial claims
• Prepare clients for depositions and coordinate with witnesses and experts to strengthen the case

Requirements:

• Demonstrated interest in criminal defense law through clinics, internships, or volunteer work
• Juris Doctor (JD) degree
• Active bar admission or pending admission (recent graduates will be considered)
• Strong teamwork skills with a collaborative approach to legal strategy
• Bilingual in English and Spanish is preferred but not required
• Strong interpersonal skills, with a proven ability to advance legal cases and manage caseloads
• Familiarity with case management software is preferred

Education:

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school

Certifications:

• Active or pending bar admission

Skills:

• Excellent research and writing skills
• Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities
• Ability to work well under pressure and manage deadlines
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
• Experience with legal technology and case management tools is an advantage