Attorney (Milwaukee)

Associate Attorney – Criminal Defense

Katz Law LLC | Wisconsin

Katz Law is growing, and we’re looking for an experienced criminal defense attorney who wants to do real litigation, take ownership of their cases, and be part of building something bigger.

This is not a position for someone who wants to sit behind a desk and push files.

We’re looking for a lawyer who is comfortable in a courtroom, confident making decisions, responsive to clients, and willing to fight when a case needs to be fought. Someone who can manage a caseload without being micromanaged, but who also understands the value of working as part of a strong, collaborative defense team.

Ideally, you have at least 3–5 years of criminal litigation experience.

About Katz Law

Katz Law is a growing Wisconsin defense firm representing clients in matters ranging from traffic and OWI offenses to serious felony cases.

We believe criminal defense should be aggressive, strategic, accessible, and client-focused. Our attorneys are expected to know their cases, communicate with their clients, prepare thoroughly, and be willing to litigate.

We are building a team of lawyers who take pride in their work, give a damn about the people they represent, and understand that excellent criminal defense requires both hustle and judgment.

What You’ll Do

You will manage your own criminal caseload while working alongside experienced attorneys and support staff.

Your responsibilities will include:

* Managing criminal cases from initial appearance through resolution or trial.

* Appearing regularly in Wisconsin circuit and municipal courts.

* Handling motion hearings, evidentiary hearings, preliminary hearings, plea negotiations, sentencing hearings, court trials, and jury trials.

* Reviewing police reports, body-camera footage, recordings, forensic evidence, and other discovery.

* Identifying factual, constitutional, evidentiary, and procedural issues that can be used to advance the defense.

* Drafting motions, briefs, correspondence, and other legal filings.

* Interviewing clients and witnesses and preparing cases for litigation.

* Negotiating strategically with prosecutors while remaining prepared to litigate when necessary.

* Maintaining consistent, straightforward communication with clients.

* Evaluating potential new matters and helping prospective clients understand their options.

* Working collaboratively with the firm’s attorneys and staff.

* Traveling throughout Wisconsin for court appearances when necessary.

Who We’re Looking For

You should be someone who:

* Is licensed and in good standing with the State Bar of Wisconsin.

* Preferably has 3–5+ years of litigation experience - ideally prosecution/public defender experience.

* Has meaningful courtroom experience.

* Is comfortable handling cases independently.

* Can think quickly and adapt when a hearing or trial does not go according to plan.

* Writes well and can make persuasive legal arguments.

* Communicates clearly with clients — including when the conversation is difficult.

* Understands that responsiveness and client service are part of being an excellent lawyer.

* Can manage competing deadlines and a substantial caseload without letting things fall through the cracks.

* Takes ownership when something needs to get done.

* Has strong professional judgment and takes ethical obligations seriously.

* Wants to continue developing as a trial lawyer.

* Is willing to travel for court appearances throughout Wisconsin.

Spanish-speaking ability is a significant plus.

What We Offer

* Competitive compensation based on experience

* Paid time off

* Paid holidays

* Retirement Plan

* Potential annual performance bonuses

* Paid continuing legal education

* Paid State Bar dues

This position includes a 90-day introductory/probationary period.
The Kind

of Lawyer Who Will Thrive Here
You do n

o

t need to have seen every possible criminal case.
You do n

e

ed to be someone who prepares, takes initiative, communicates, and cares about getting better.
We want

a

ttorneys who would rather figure out how to win an issue than explain why something can’t be done. Attorneys who understand that preparation matters. That clients deserve phone calls back. That details matter. And that sometimes the defense has to do the heavy lifting.
If you w

a

nt a practice where you can actually litigate, develop your courtroom skills, have meaningful responsibility, and help build a growing criminal defense team, we want to hear from you.
To apply

,

submit your résumé and a short introduction explaining your criminal litigation experience and why Katz Law interests you.