Associate Attorney - Criminal Defense

Associate Criminal Defense Attorney – Universal Defense, LLC, Otsego, MN

About the Company

Universal Defense, founded in 2015 by Richard LeRoy, is one of Minnesota’s top criminal defense law firms. Richard has over 35 years of criminal defense experience, serving clients of all ages and backgrounds. Our legal team has handled clients in over twenty Minnesota counties, ranging from petty misdemeanors to serious felony offenses. We defend our clients under the basic principle that everyone deserves access to justice.

Please apply if you’re looking to gain experience at a small, compassionate and effective law firm that has an outstanding track record and phenomenal team.

Representation in all areas of Minnesota criminal law, including but not limited to:

·Juvenile, traffic, DWI, drug, theft, fraud, harassment, domestic and sexual assault, and more.

Check out our website to learn more about our services: https://www.universaldefensellc.com/

Job Description

Universal Defense is seeking a highly motivated criminal litigation attorney. No workday is the same, but you can expect to split your time in and out of the office, with consultations, managing current client files, Zoom court, and in-person court hearings. Attorneys are expected to travel daily to surrounding counties for in-person court appearances. Our most represented counties include Sherburne, Wright, Anoka, Hennepin, Ramsey, Washington, Isanti, Mille Lacs, Scott, Dakota, Benton, and Stearns.

The ideal candidate would have:

· Criminal courtroom experience in Minnesota

· Exceptional legal research and writing skills

· Ability to negotiate and develop defense strategies

· Ability to navigate hearing and trials with minimal supervision

· Ability to work independently & collaborate with a small team

· Clear and compassionate communication skills

· Ability to manage a complex schedule, including several cases in one day

· Ability to work with diverse populations including those with mental and chemical health issues & deficiencies.

Why work for Universal Defense?

· Luxurious office setting with a great view and outdoor space

· Small, boutique style law firm

· Learn from experienced litigators

· Healthy work-life balance

· Competitive compensation & room for growth

· Laid back work environment and personable staff

· No billable hours

Minimum Qualifications:

· J.D. from an ABA accredited institution

· Minnesota State Bar License

· Comfortable in the courtroom

· Ability to independently manage clients and caseload

· Prompt responses to client calls and messages

· Ability to work with diverse populations including those with mental and chemical health issues and deficiencies

Preferred Qualifications:

· 2 years working in a law firm setting

· Strong knowledge of Minnesota Criminal Law and Procedure

· Experience drafting legal briefs, motions, petitions, and memoranda

· Westlaw Certification

· Experience e-filing documents using Odyssey and MNDES

· Familiarity navigating Minnesota Court Records Online (MCRO)

· Proficiency in using Zoom for remote meetings and hearings

· Proficiency in using Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook

· Ability to organize discovery and independently prepare for trial

Recent law school graduates, public defenders, and prosecutors are encouraged to apply!

Job type: Full time, Monday – Friday, 8:00am – 4:00pm.

Job Location: 9000 Quantrelle Ave. NE Ste 230, Otsego, MN 55330.

The office is conveniently located right off Highway 169 in Otsego, Minnesota. Much of the workload will need to be done on site. Candidates must have a reliable vehicle and be able to travel daily to court appearances in surrounding counties.

Benefits:

· Medical and dental insurance

· Gym membership

· Generous time off including PTO and all federal holidays

· Company laptop and cellphone provided

Salary: 80k-90k starting salary based on experience.

Please submit your resume, cover letter and/or legal writing sample to sara@universaldefensellc.com for consideration.