Criminal Defense Associate Attorney

R Christopher White & Associates PC; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) matching

Bonus based on performance

Competitive salary

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Paid time off

Free food & snacks

Job summary

A law firm specializing in criminal defense is seeking a motivated Criminal Defense Associate Attorney to advocate for clients facing criminal charges. The role offers hands-on litigation experience, providing the chance to make a meaningful impact in clients’ lives. Responsibilities include representing clients in court, conducting legal research, drafting motions, and negotiating with prosecutors. Ideal candidates have a JD, relevant experience in criminal law, and strong advocacy skills. Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses are included.

Qualifications

• 1–3 years of experience in criminal defense or comparable litigation.
• Ability to manage demanding, fast-paced caseload independently.
• Commitment to ethical practice and client advocacy.
• Excellent legal writing, research, and analytical abilities
• Ability to manage a demanding, fast-paced caseload independently
• Commitment to ethical practice and zealous client advocacy

Responsibilities

• Represent clients charged with offenses in state and/or federal court.
• Conduct client consultations and develop effective defense strategies.
• Draft and file motions and legal documents.
• Negotiate plea agreements with prosecutors.
• Prepare witnesses and clients for hearings and trial testimony.
• Negotiate plea agreements with prosecutors when appropriate
• Advocate for clients at bond hearings, motions hearings, pre-trial conferences, and trials
• Prepare witnesses and clients for hearings and trial testimony
• Maintain frequent, clear communication with clients regarding case status and expectations
• Collaborate with senior attorneys, case managers and investigators to ensure effective case management

Skills

Courtroom presence

Litigation skills

Oral advocacy

Legal writing

Research abilities

Analytical skills

Client communication

Education

Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school

Licensed and in good standing in MO

Licenses in TX, KS, IL (a plus)

Job description

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Bonus based on performance
• Competitive salary
• Dental insurance
• Free food & snacks
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

The Law Offices of Roderick C. White is a dynamic, client-focused law firm dedicated exclusively to protecting the rights and freedoms of individuals facing criminal charges. We are known for our aggressive advocacy, strategic defense, and unwavering commitment to justice in high-stakes and emotionally charged criminal matters. Our practice is grounded in professionalism, integrity, and a results-driven, client-centered approach.

We are seeking a motivated and skilled Criminal Defense Associate Attorney to join our growing practice. The ideal candidate is passionate about constitutional rights, thrives in the courtroom, and is prepared to advocate zealously for clients at every stage of the criminal process. This role offers hands-on litigation experience and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in clients’ lives during some of their most challenging moments.

Key Responsibilities

• Represent clients charged with misdemeanor and felony offenses in state and/or federal court
• Handle cases from initial appearance through trial and post-disposition proceedings
• Conduct client consultations, evaluate charges, and develop effective defense strategies
• Draft and file motions, pleadings, discovery requests, and legal memoranda
• Perform legal research and factual investigation to support case preparation
• Negotiate plea agreements with prosecutors when appropriate
• Advocate for clients at bond hearings, motions hearings, pre-trial conferences, and trials
• Prepare witnesses and clients for hearings and trial testimony
• Maintain frequent, clear communication with clients regarding case status and expectations
• Collaborate with senior attorneys, case managers and investigators to ensure effective case management

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school
• Licensed and in good standing in MO (TX, KS, IL a plus)
• 1–3 years of experience in criminal defense, prosecution, or comparable litigation experience
• Strong courtroom presence, litigation, and oral advocacy skills
• Excellent legal writing, research, and analytical abilities
• Ability to manage a demanding, fast-paced caseload independently
• Commitment to ethical practice and zealous client advocacy

Benefits & Perks

• Competitive salary with performance-based bonuses
• Paid holidays and PTO
• 401(k) with employer matching
• Health, Dental, and Vision insurance
• Supportive, collaborative team culture
• Modern co-working environment with community kitchen (breakfast, lunch, and snacks provided)

Schedule

Full-time, Monday–Friday

On call after hours for consultations with potential new clients