Associate Attorney

Job Description

Job Description

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Bonus based on performance
• Competitive salary
• Free food & snacks
• Opportunity for advancement
• Paid time off
• Training & development

Associate Criminal Defense Attorney

Location: Harnett County, North Carolina (with travel to surrounding counties) Compensation: $50,000 – $70,000 annually Job Type: Full‑Time (In‑Person)

Job Summary

We are seeking a professional and motivated Associate Criminal Defense Attorney to join our growing law firm. This role involves providing legal counsel, conducting research, drafting legal documents, and representing clients in traffic and criminal misdemeanor matters. The position offers substantial courtroom exposure, mentorship from experienced attorneys, and meaningful opportunities for career advancement within a structured, in‑person work environment.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Case Oversight — Manage assigned cases from intake through resolution, ensuring organized file maintenance and consistent client communication.
• Court Representation — Attend daily court sessions, negotiate with prosecutors, argue motions, and handle trials as experience develops.
• Legal Research — Conduct thorough legal research to support motions, briefs, and case strategy.
• Document Drafting — Prepare contracts, briefs, motions, discovery requests, and other legal documents with accuracy and attention to detail.
• Client Counseling — Provide legal guidance to clients, including consultations conducted alongside senior attorneys.
• Negotiation — Negotiate case outcomes on behalf of clients in court and with opposing counsel.
• Record Management — Maintain detailed, accurate, and organized client files and case records.

Required Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an ABA‑accredited law school .
• Successful completion of the bar exam .
• Active North Carolina Bar License , in good standing.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation for daily court travel.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong negotiation and problem‑solving abilities.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues to best serve clients.
• Spanish proficiency is highly preferred.

Preferred Attributes

• Demonstrated interest in criminal defense and client‑centered advocacy.
• Professional courtroom presence and ability to perform under time constraints.
• Self‑motivated, dependable, and committed to high‑quality legal representation.
• Ability to maintain professionalism and composure in a fast‑moving environment.

Benefits & Perks

• Career Advancement Opportunities
• Competitive Compensation
• 401(k)
• Paid Time Off

Work Environment & Advancement

This is an in‑person position requiring daily court attendance and regular office presence. 

Equal Employment Opportunity

We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability.