Associate Attorney - Criminal Defense

Job Description

About the Opportunity

Myers Billion, LLP seeking a motivated Associate Attorney to join our growing criminal defense practice. Since 1914, the firm has served individuals and businesses throughout South Dakota with practical, client-focused legal counsel. This position offers the opportunity to handle a broad range of criminal matters while working alongside experienced attorneys dedicated to providing exceptional legal representation. The ideal candidate will be a strong advocate, skilled communicator, and strategic thinker who is committed to achieving the best possible outcomes for clients.

Key Responsibilities

• Independently manage criminal cases from initial consultation through resolution, including trial, with mentorship and support from senior attorneys as needed.
• Counsel clients on charges, legal rights, defense strategies, plea options, sentencing considerations, and court procedures.
• Investigate factual issues, research applicable law, and evaluate reports, witness statements, forensic and digital evidence, and other case materials.
• Draft motions, briefs, plea agreements, sentencing submissions, and other criminal case filings.
• Prepare for and appear at arraignments, hearings, plea proceedings, sentencings, and jury trials.
• Negotiate with prosecutors and collaborate with investigators, experts, and forensic specialists to develop effective defense strategies.
• Communicate regularly with clients and other case participants while maintaining organized files, accurate time records, and compliance with ethical obligations.

Required Qualifications

• Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school.
• Active South Dakota law license, or eligibility for prompt admission, in good standing.
• 2-5 years of criminal defense or related legal experience.

• Strong legal research, writing, analytical, and advocacy skills.
• Ability to manage multiple cases and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Criminal defense experience, including hearings, motion practice, plea negotiations, or trial preparation.
• Familiarity felony and misdemeanor matters, including DUI/DWI, drug, theft, violent crime, protection order, and juvenile cases.
• Courtroom experience in South Dakota state or federal courts.
• Experience working with investigators, experts, or forensic and digital evidence.
• Strong advocacy, negotiation, judgement, and client communication skills, particularly in sensitive or high-stakes matters.

Compensation and Benefits

Salary is competitive and dependent upon experience and qualifications. Benefits include medical, dental, vision, disability insurance, and IRA participation. This position is based in downtown Sioux Falls and may require occasional travel throughout South Dakota.

How to Apply

Submit a résumé and cover letter to View email address on kelolandemployment.com. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Myers Billion, LLP provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees without regard to any status protected by law. Reasonable accommodations are available upon request.