Associate Criminal Defense Attorney

Job Description

Job Description

** About Us **

Thornton Criminal Defense is a San Antonio law firm dedicated exclusively to criminal defense, with an emphasis on DWI and drug possession defense. Led by Brad Thornton, a Board Certified Criminal Law Specialist and former Chief Prosecutor, the firm represents clients facing misdemeanor and felony charges throughout South Central Texas.

Our practice is primarily in Bexar County, but we regularly appear in Comal, Kendall, Guadalupe, Medina, Atascosa, Wilson, and other surrounding counties.

We are a client-focused firm. We take pride in providing strong legal representation while also making sure our clients are informed, prepared, and treated with respect throughout the process.

We are looking for an Associate Criminal Defense Attorney to join our practice.

** The Opportunity **

This position is ideal for an attorney with 2–5 years of criminal law experience who enjoys being in the courtroom and wants to continue developing as a criminal trial attorney.

We are equally interested in attorneys coming from criminal defense or prosecution. Current or former Assistant District Attorneys who are interested in transitioning to criminal defense are strongly encouraged to apply.

The associate will handle an assigned caseload and work directly with clients from the early stages of a case through disposition or trial. The position provides substantial hands-on experience in misdemeanor and felony criminal cases, including court appearances, evidence review, negotiations, motion practice, hearings, and jury trials.

This is a full-time hybrid position. Court appearances and client needs will require regular in-person work, but the associate will have flexibility to work from home when his or her schedule permits.

** Responsibilities **

The associate attorney will:

• Represent clients in misdemeanor and felony criminal cases;
• Appear regularly in courts throughout Bexar County and surrounding counties;
• Review police reports, body-camera footage, forensic evidence, and other discovery;
• Identify legal, factual, constitutional, and evidentiary issues;
• Develop case strategies and advise clients regarding their options;
• Negotiate cases with prosecutors;
• Draft and litigate pretrial motions;
• Prepare for and participate in contested hearings and jury trials;
• Maintain regular communication with clients regarding their cases; and
• Manage court settings, deadlines, and an assigned caseload with the assistance of firm staff.

** Who We're Looking For **

The ideal candidate will have:

• Approximately 2–5 years of criminal law experience as a prosecutor, criminal defense attorney, or both;
• An active Texas law license in good standing;
• Courtroom experience and confidence appearing before judges and negotiating with prosecutors;
• Strong written and oral advocacy skills;
• Excellent organization and time-management skills;
• Strong interpersonal and client communication skills;
• The ability to independently manage cases while working collaboratively with the firm; and
• Reliable transportation and the ability to travel to surrounding counties for court.

Jury-trial experience is preferred but not required.

Just as importantly, we are looking for someone who understands that excellent criminal defense requires excellent client service. Our clients are often facing one of the most stressful periods of their lives. Being responsive, keeping clients informed, managing expectations, and following through on commitments are essential parts of this position.

** Compensation & Benefits **

** Salary is commensurate with experience but will range from $80,000.00 to $120,000.00** and will take into account the candidate's criminal law, courtroom, and jury-trial experience.

Benefits include:

• 401(k);
• Paid vacation and sick leave;
• Hybrid/work-from-home flexibility;
• Texas Bar dues;
• Continuing legal education expenses;
• Reimbursement for work-related mileage and travel;
• Reimbursement for court and work-related parking; and
• Other approved professional expenses.

** Why Thornton Criminal Defense?**

Our practice is focused primarily on DWI and drug offenses, with an emphasis on representing first-time offenders and people who may have never had any prior involvement with the criminal justice system.

We take a client-focused, mitigation-driven approach to criminal defense. That means learning who our clients are beyond the allegations against them, identifying the circumstances that brought them into the criminal justice system, and developing a strategy designed to achieve the best possible outcome for both the case and the client's future.

At the same time, effective negotiation requires the ability and willingness to litigate. In the spirit of “speak softly and carry a big stick,” we believe the best criminal defense attorneys are capable of resolving cases thoughtfully and professionally while also being fully prepared to challenge the State in court when necessary.

The associate will also have the opportunity to work closely with and learn alongside a Board Certified Criminal Law Specialist with extensive courtroom and jury-trial experience. This provides an opportunity for meaningful mentorship while still giving the associate the responsibility and independence necessary to develop his or her own judgment, courtroom skills, and style as a criminal defense attorney.

For an attorney who wants to build a career in criminal defense, the position offers the opportunity to develop the full range of skills that matter: evaluating cases, working closely with clients, developing meaningful mitigation, negotiating effectively with prosecutors, litigating contested issues, and trying cases when trial is the right course.

** How to Apply **

Please submit a résumé and brief cover letter describing your criminal law experience and interest in the position.

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Flexible schedule
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance

\nCompany Description

Thornton Criminal Defense is a highly reputable and growing law firm specializing in criminal defense. With a strong focus on providing exceptional legal representation along with excellent customer service, we are committed to advocating for the rights and best interests of our clients. Led by a board-certified criminal defense attorney with over 15 years of experience in both prosecution and defense, we strive to ensure that our clients receive the highest level of legal representation and personal attention.

Company Description

Thornton Criminal Defense is a highly reputable and growing law firm specializing in criminal defense. With a strong focus on providing exceptional legal representation along with excellent customer service, we are committed to advocating for the rights and best interests of our clients. Led by a board-certified criminal defense attorney with over 15 years of experience in both prosecution and defense, we strive to ensure that our clients receive the highest level of legal representation and personal attention.