Associate Attorney - Criminal Defense

Are you a strategic, analytical thinker with a passion for criminal defense? Do you thrive in a collaborative, team-focused environment where you can take a deep dive into case files, analyze evidence, and contribute to winning defense strategies? If so, we want to hear from you!

Our firm is seeking a Criminal Defense Associate Attorney to join our growing team. While much of the work can be done remotely, this role requires the ability to travel to various courts throughout Kansas and come into the office as needed.

We foster a family-like work culture where every team member plays a vital role in achieving the best outcomes for our clients. There are no billable hour requirements, and we prioritize work-life balance, professional growth, and a supportive team environment.

Key Responsibilities

1. Legal Research and Writing (30%)

• Conduct in-depth legal research to support case strategies and decision-making.
• Draft pleadings, motions, trial briefs, and legal memoranda with precision and legal accuracy.
• Prepare case law summaries and highlight key precedents for use in trial.

2. Discovery Management (25%)

• Draft and respond to discovery requests, subpoenas, and records requests.
• Review discovery materials, identify key evidence, and prepare summaries for the trial team.
• Work with the Case Manager to track deadlines and ensure compliance with discovery requests.

3. Courtroom and Trial Support (15%)

• Assist in jury instruction preparation, voir dire questions, and crafting opening/closing arguments.
• Manage trial logistics, including exhibits, witness schedules, and evidence presentation.
• Handle procedural court hearings, such as first appearances, arraignments, and status conferences.

4. Witness Preparation and Examination (15%)

• Prepare witnesses for depositions and trial testimony.
• Conduct depositions for less complex matters under supervision.
• Collaborate with the trial team to refine witness examination strategies.

5. Post-Trial and Sentencing (10%)

• Draft post-trial motions and sentencing memoranda.
• Participate in trial debriefs to evaluate performance and case outcomes.
• Assist the Lead Attorney in preparing for sentencing hearings, including oral arguments and mitigation evidence.

6. Client Interaction (5%)

• Provide regular case updates and procedural explanations to clients.
• Attend client meetings and address concerns.
• Build trust and rapport with clients throughout the case process.

We consider the remainder of the responsibilities to be supportive to the first six:

Additional Responsibilities7. Supervision and Delegation

• Assign and delegate tasks to non-attorney staff, including the Case Manager and Legal Assistant.
• Review and provide feedback on work product to ensure accuracy and compliance.
• Mentor and support staff in their professional development.
• Collaborate with the Case Manager to ensure deadlines are met.

8. Team Collaboration

• Work closely with the Lead Attorney to align efforts with case strategy.
• Participate in team meetings to provide case updates and address challenges.
• Foster a collaborative, supportive team environment where everyone contributes.

9. Growth and Development Opportunities

• Receive mentorship and guidance from senior attorneys.
• Attend professional development seminars and training programs.
• Gain courtroom experience through trial participation and shadowing opportunities.

What We Offer

Remote Flexibility – Work from home with travel to courts as needed.
No Billable Hour Requirements – We prioritize results, not timesheets.
Work-Life Balance – We believe great work happens when our team is rested and supported.
Strong Team Culture – We foster a family-like environment where collaboration is key.
Growth & Development – We encourage innovative thinking and continuous learning.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree and active bar membership in Kansas.
• 3 years of experience in criminal defense, litigation, or a related field.

Skills & Competencies

• Analytical and critical thinking skills.
• Ability to manage multiple cases with competing deadlines.
• Strong legal research and writing skills.
• Leadership and delegation abilities.
• Excellent interpersonal and client communication skills.
• Team-oriented mindset with a willingness to collaborate.
• High level of professionalism and ethical standards.

Performance Metrics

• Quality and timeliness of legal documents and motions.
• Effectiveness in trial preparation and courtroom support.
• Client satisfaction and communication effectiveness.
• Leadership and teamwork as evaluated by senior attorneys.
• Accuracy and oversight in supervising non-attorney staff.

Join Our Team!

If you are a creative, analytical thinker who thrives in a team-first environment, enjoys strategic casework, and values a firm that respects work-life balance, this is the perfect role for you.

Apply today and be part of a firm where your insights, dedication, and passion for criminal defense make a real impact!

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $80,000.00 - $85,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Experience:

• Criminal Defense or Litigation: 3 years (Required)

License/Certification:

• Kansas Bar (Required)

Location:

• Wichita, KS 67218 (Preferred)

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Wichita, KS 67218

Salary : $80,000 - $85,000