Criminal Defense Associate - Western Washington

Garguile Law, PLLC is seeking a self-motivated, experienced criminal defense attorney who enjoys courtroom advocacy, values client relationships, and wants to build a sustainable long-term career in criminal defense.

We built the kind of criminal defense firm we wished existed when we were younger attorneys: high-level advocacy, sustainable caseloads, real mentorship, and a life outside the office.

Garguile Law, PLLC is a rapidly growing, virtual-first boutique firm focused on misdemeanor criminal defense — primarily DUI and traffic ticket defense — across Western Washington. We are looking for a confident advocate with 1–5 years of experience who wants to grow within a modern law firm that believes excellent attorneys should not have to burn themselves out to succeed.

This is a hybrid position. When you are not in court, you work remotely unless you prefer to work from one of our office locations.

What Makes This Position Different

1. Quality Over Quantity - We strictly cap active caseloads at approximately 35 cases at any given time. That is not a goal; it is how we operate. We believe exceptional client outcomes and experiences come from giving attorneys the time and support to do excellent work.
2. Real Work-Life Balance - When the workday ends, your time is yours. No late-night jail calls. No expectation of being constantly available. This position is intentionally structured to allow you to build a meaningful legal career without sacrificing the rest of your life.
3. Focus on Practicing Law — Not Selling - This is the perfect opportunity for someone who wants to become a top-performing criminal defense attorney without worrying about the business side of practicing law. We do not expect our attorneys to be salespeople. We are looking for someone who thrives on making clients feel confident in their decision to hire our firm and who will passionately work to provide every client with outstanding representation and the best possible path toward resolving their case.
4. You Are Never Practicing Alone - You will have regular strategy meetings and mentorship with our Managing Attorney. If a case proceeds to jury trial, you will have support from experienced litigators and colleagues to co-counsel and prepare the case. We want attorneys who actively seek to sharpen their advocacy skills and continue growing professionally.
5. Long-Term Growth Opportunity - We promote from within and are building for the long term. As the firm grows, there will be opportunities to take ownership of geographic practice areas, mentor newer attorneys, assume leadership responsibilities, and, for the right candidate, potentially expand into more advanced criminal defense work.

The Opportunity

1. Courtroom-Focused Practice : You will manage misdemeanor criminal defense matters from arraignment through resolution, with a strong emphasis on DUI defense and related litigation.
2. Smart Geographic Scheduling : We strategically assign cases throughout Pierce, King, Thurston, Snohomish, and Kitsap Counties based on attorney geography and scheduling efficiency. We value sustainability and are comfortable declining cases that do not make logistical sense. Court-related travel is concentrated strategically throughout the Puget Sound region and is fully reimbursed.
3. Virtual-First Operations : Outside of court appearances, you will work remotely using modern legal technology systems and streamlined workflows. We do not require attorneys to sit in an office simply for appearances.

Our Core Values

Our values are non-negotiable and shape how we practice law and work together as a team:

• Virtual-First Law Firm
• Exceptional Client Experiences
• Honest Expectations
• Proactive and Solutions-Focused
• Growth Is the Expectation
• Drama-Free Environment

The attorneys who thrive here are self-directed, calm under pressure, client-focused, and genuinely enjoy courtroom advocacy.

Position Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of misdemeanor criminal defense matters, primarily DUI cases, from arraignment through resolution
• Handle Department of Licensing (DOL) hearings related to license suspensions
• Appear in court across multiple jurisdictions throughout Western Washington
• Conduct legal research and prepare motions, pleadings, memoranda, and related filings
• Collaborate with attorneys and staff remotely and in person
• Maintain proactive, solutions-focused communication with clients throughout representation

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school
• Active Washington State law license in good standing
• 1–5 years of experience in criminal defense, prosecution, or public defense
• Ability to independently manage a caseload from day one
• Familiarity with criminal procedure and rules of evidence
• Reliable transportation for regular court appearances throughout Western Washington

Former and current prosecutors and public defenders are strongly encouraged to apply. Strict confidentiality will be maintained.

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary: $105,000–$120,000 DOE
• Comprehensive Premera Gold health plan
• 401(k) with company matching after one year
• Full mileage reimbursement for court-related travel
• Paid time off
• Hybrid remote flexibility
• Caseloads capped at approximately 35 active cases

Location

Hybrid position with physical offices in Tacoma, Seattle, Olympia, and Puyallup, WA, with regular court appearances throughout the greater Puget Sound region.

How to Apply

Please email View email address on click.appcast.io with the following:

In the body of your email, please tell us:

• What draws you to misdemeanor criminal defense and DUI defense specifically?
• Describe a case or courtroom moment that shaped you as an advocate.
• What does providing an “exceptional client experience” mean to you in the context of criminal defense?
• Your phone number and at least three dates/times you are available for an initial informal interview

Please attach:

• A cover letter
• Your resume
• A summary of your courtroom and/or trial experience