Criminal Defense Associate Attorney

Associate Attorney – Harwell Legal Counsel LLC

Location: Indianapolis, IN
Practice Areas: Criminal Defense Crimmigration Appeals Post‑Conviction Relief

About Us

Harwell Criminal Defense is a rapidly growing, high‑performance criminal defense and crimmigration firm serving communities across Indiana. Our attorneys— including former prosecutors — deliver strategic, aggressive, and client‑centered representation for individuals facing criminal charges, post‑conviction matters, and crimmiration issues.

We pride ourselves on relentless preparation , multilingual accessibility , and a modern, tech‑driven legal strategy that ensures every client receives elite representation.

Our Work Environment

• Relaxed, supportive atmosphere
• Lively and collaborative culture
• Hands‑on training and professional development
• Client‑centered, mission‑driven team

Position Summary

The Associate Attorney will represent clients in all phases of criminal and family law proceedings, including trials, appeals, and post‑conviction litigation. This role requires exceptional research, writing, and courtroom advocacy skills, as well as the ability to communicate clearly and compassionately with clients from diverse backgrounds.

This attorney will work closely with partners and legal staff to manage cases strategically, uphold firm values, and contribute to the firm’s continued expansion.

Key ResponsibilitiesClient Representation & Litigation

• Represent clients in criminal, family law, appellate, and post‑conviction proceedings.
• Conduct hearings, trials, depositions, and oral arguments before courts and administrative agencies.
• Develop case strategy, prepare clients and witnesses, and present evidence effectively.

Legal Research & Writing

• Draft high‑quality legal documents, including motions, briefs, pleadings, and appellate filings.
• Conduct legal research using advanced tools and AI‑supported platforms.
• File briefs and coordinate with court clerks across state and federal courts.

Case Investigation & Preparation

• Gather, review, and analyze evidence in criminal, civil, and family law matters.
• Interview clients, witnesses, and experts to build strong defense theories.
• Collaborate with investigators to conduct scene investigations and obtain supporting evidence.

Client Advising & Communication

• Advise clients on legal rights, options, and potential outcomes.
• Maintain clear, culturally aware, and empathetic communication throughout the case.
• Build trust and rapport with clients, including multilingual families and underserved communities.

Team Collaboration

• Work with colleagues specializing in relevant practice areas to validate legal strategy.
• Participate in firm training, team meetings, and case‑review sessions.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of internal workflows and legal processes.

Note: The firm reserves the right to modify duties as needed.

QualificationsRequired

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school.
• Admission to the Indiana Bar
• Experience in criminal defense, appellate advocacy, or related legal fields.
• Strong legal research, writing, and analytical skills.
• Excellent communication—written, verbal, and client‑facing.
• Ability to manage multiple cases and deadlines in a fast‑paced environment.

Preferred

• Experience with post‑conviction relief or appellate litigation.
• Trial experience or participation in moot court/clinics (e.g., wrongful conviction, appellate clinic)
• Familiarity with AI‑enhanced legal research tools.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and benefits
• Professional development, CLE opportunities, and mentorship
• A chance to work on high‑stakes, meaningful criminal and family law cases
• A mission‑driven environment committed to justice, compassion, and excellence