Entry Level Trial Attorney

While AI is rapidly changing many areas of the legal profession, litigation remains one of the few practice areas fundamentally driven by human judgment, courtroom advocacy, negotiation, and strategy. For ambitious attorneys, litigation continues to be one of the smartest and fastest-growing long-term career paths in law.

About Pacific Point Defense

Pacific Point Defense is a growing Washington criminal defense firm dedicated exclusively to protecting the rights of individuals accused of crimes. With offices in Tacoma, Seattle, and Olympia, our attorneys appear daily in courts throughout Western Washington advocating for clients at every stage of the criminal process. We currently have 16 attorneys but expect to expand to 18 by the end of the year.

We are passionate about client-centered representation and believe every person deserves a strong defense, respect, and compassionate advocacy during one of the most difficult times in their life.

Our firm combines serious courtroom litigation with a collaborative, team-oriented culture. We work hard, support one another, and prioritize maintaining an environment where attorneys can develop professionally without sacrificing their personal lives. We believe the best lawyers are not burned out lawyers.

Pacific Point Defense is committed to building long-term careers, not just filling positions. We invest in mentorship, professional growth, and creating opportunities for attorneys to gain meaningful courtroom experience while working alongside experienced litigators who value preparation, strategy, and teamwork.

The Position

Pacific Point Defense is hiring a full-time Criminal Defense Associate Attorney to handle a misdemeanor caseload in local municipal court.

This is an excellent opportunity for an attorney seeking substantial courtroom experience, mentorship, litigation training, and long-term professional growth in criminal defense.

Why Attorneys Like Working Here

We believe attorneys do their best work when they feel supported, respected, and have a healthy work-life balance.

At Pacific Point Defense, you will find:

• A collaborative and positive team culture
• Supportive leadership and mentorship
• Meaningful courtroom experience
• A realistic workload and manageable schedule
• A 35-hour work week
• Hybrid remote flexibility
• Opportunities for long-term growth within the firm
• A workplace where people genuinely enjoy coming to work

If you want meaningful litigation experience without sacrificing your personal life, this is an excellent opportunity.

What You'll Do

• Represent clients at in-custody arraignments
• Handle pretrial hearings and motion practice
• Prepare cases for trial
• Conduct investigations and witness preparation
• Negotiate plea agreements
• Represent clients at sentencing and post-trial proceedings
• Communicate effectively with clients, prosecutors, and court staff
• Manage a misdemeanor caseload with professionalism and attention to detail

What We're Looking For

We are seeking someone who is:

• Committed to social justice and client advocacy
• Organized and detail-oriented
• Comfortable adapting to fast-changing situations
• Professional in and out of the courtroom
• Willing to ask questions and seek guidance when needed
• Interested in growing long term with the firm

Prior courtroom experience is preferred, but not required.

Qualifications

• Active Washington State Bar license in good standing required
• Minimum one year of criminal law experience strongly preferred
• Strong written and oral advocacy skills
• Ability to manage deadlines and courtroom responsibilities effectively

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary: $90,000 – $120,000 DOE
• Bonus structure
• 401(k)
• Paid bar dues and CLEs
• Flexible PTO
• Paid medical leave
• Mileage reimbursement
• Hybrid work-from-home options

How to Apply

Please send a resume and cover letter to: View email address on click.appcast.io

Questions about the position are welcome and may also be directed to Mrs. Horwath at the same email address.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Position closes on or before June 10, 2026 .