Senior Criminal Defense Attorney

Job Overview:
A law firm seeks a Senior Criminal Defense Attorney to join its legal team in Houston, Texas. In this role, the attorney will manage a diverse caseload of criminal matters across federal, state, and local courts. This position offers an exciting opportunity to play a key role in developing defense strategies, advocating for clients in court, and collaborating with a team of legal professionals dedicated to providing exceptional representation. This firm values proactive communication, teamwork, and creative problem-solving, and offers comprehensive benefits in a supportive work environment.

Duties:

• Advise clients on their legal rights, possible outcomes, and recommended courses of action throughout each phase of the criminal process.
• Draft a variety of legal documents related to client defense, including motions, pleadings, and agreements.
• Represent clients at pretrial hearings, delivering strategic arguments and advising clients on next steps after each appearance.
• Conduct court appearances, including trial advocacy, legal argument, and presentation of evidence.
• Interview witnesses, consult with experts, and collect supporting evidence to strengthen client cases.
• Perform legal research and apply knowledge of relevant precedents to case analysis and defense strategy development.
• Provide clear, actionable case analysis to clients, outlining potential benefits, risks, and strategies.
• Prepare clients for depositions, guiding them through the process and setting case-specific goals.
• Collaborate with legal team members, including fellow attorneys and legal assistants, to develop cohesive defense strategies.
• Maintain organized case files and ensure deadlines, filings, and court requirements are consistently met.

Requirements:

• Demonstrated experience handling criminal defense cases at the federal, state, and local levels.
• Strong collaborative mindset, willing to work closely with colleagues to share strategies and insights.
• Excellent interpersonal and client-service skills, with the ability to build trust and rapport with clients from diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to manage a high-volume caseload while maintaining high-quality work and attention to detail.
• Skilled in balancing independent case management with team-based collaboration and brainstorming.

Education:

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.

Certifications:

• Active membership in good standing with the Texas State Bar.

Skills:

• Strong oral advocacy and courtroom presence.
• Excellent legal writing and drafting abilities.
• Analytical thinker with problem-solving expertise, capable of adjusting strategies to meet evolving case needs.
• Thorough understanding of criminal law procedures, evidence rules, and court practices.
• Time management skills with the ability to prioritize competing deadlines under pressure.
• Commitment to delivering client-centered service, explaining legal complexities in clear, practical language.
• Proficient in legal research platforms and case management software.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
• Employer-paid parking.
• Generous paid time off (vacation, sick leave, and holidays).
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement within the firm.
• Supportive, team-oriented culture that fosters collaboration, learning, and work-life balance.

Location:

• Houston, Texas (court appearances required).