Criminal Defense Attorney

Nave Law Firm; City of Utica (NY); On-site; USD 85,000 - 125,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Unlimited flexible time off

Comprehensive health benefits

Retirement plan with company match

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Nave Law is seeking an experienced Criminal Defense Attorney to manage an active caseload from intake through resolution. This role is suited for a confident attorney who can independently manage cases while collaborating with senior attorneys on complex legal issues when needed.

The attorney will develop legal strategy, negotiate with prosecutors, litigate when necessary, and maintain clear and consistent client communication throughout the case lifecycle.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor from an accredited law school.
• Active license to practice law in New York, in good standing.
• 3 to 5 years of criminal defense experience.
• Strong courtroom presence and negotiation skills.
• Ability to manage a high-volume caseload efficiently.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Experience using Clio or similar case management software preferred.

Responsibilities

• Manage an active caseload of approximately 125 to 150 criminal cases.
• Conduct client initial consultations and strategy meetings.
• Develop case strategy, negotiate with prosecutors, and litigate when necessary.
• Maintain detailed documentation of all case activity in Clio.
• Provide consistent updates and clear communication to clients regarding case status and next steps.
• Collaborate with supervising attorneys on complex legal issues.
• Meet biweekly with assigned legal assistant or paralegal to review case progress and upcoming deadlines.
• Attend required CLEs and participate in internal training.
• Maintain high standards of professionalism, client service, and ethical practice.
• Contribute to firm growth through client experience, reputation building, and community engagement.

Skills

Criminal defense

Negotiation

Courtroom presence

Client communication

Case management

Emotional intelligence

Attention to detail

Education

Juris Doctor (JD)

Active NY bar license

Tools

Clio

Job description

Company Overview

Nave Law is a growth focused criminal defense firm committed to delivering strong legal advocacy and exceptional client service. Our attorneys represent clients across New York with a focus on strategic defense, thorough preparation, and clear communication at every stage of a case.

Our firm operates with structured systems, defined processes, and measurable performance standards. Attorneys are supported by trained legal assistants, established case management procedures, and a consistent flow of new matters. This structure allows our attorneys to focus on legal strategy, client advocacy, and effective case resolution.

We value professionalism, accountability, and collaboration. Our team works together to ensure cases are handled efficiently, clients remain informed, and the firm maintains the high standards our clients expect.

Job Overview

We are seeking an experienced Criminal Defense Attorney to manage an active caseload from intake through resolution. This role is suited for a confident attorney who can independently manage cases while collaborating with senior attorneys on complex legal issues when needed.

The firm provides a consistent flow of cases and operational support. The attorney is responsible for developing legal strategy, negotiating with prosecutors, litigating when appropriate, and maintaining clear and consistent client communication throughout the case lifecycle.

Duties

• Manage an active caseload of approximately 125 to 150 criminal cases.
• Conduct client initial consultations and strategy meetings.
• Develop case strategy, negotiate with prosecutors, and litigate when necessary.
• Maintain detailed documentation of all case activity in Clio.
• Provide consistent updates and clear communication to clients regarding case status and next steps.
• Collaborate with supervising attorneys on complex legal issues.
• Meet biweekly with assigned legal assistant or paralegal to review case progress and upcoming deadlines.
• Attend required CLEs and participate in internal training.
• Maintain high standards of professionalism, client service, and ethical practice.
• Contribute to firm growth through client experience, reputation building, and community engagement.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor from an accredited law school.
• Active license to practice law in New York, in good standing.
• 3 to 5 years of criminal defense experience required.
• Strong courtroom presence and negotiation skills.
• Ability to manage a high-volume caseload efficiently.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• High emotional intelligence and ability to build client trust.
• Experience using Clio or similar case management software preferred.

What You Can Expect

• Competitive salary based on experience and performance.
• Unlimited flexible time off with a culture that supports work life harmony.
• Comprehensive health benefits including medical, dental, vision, AD&D, and a wellness program.
• Firm supported wellness program focused on physical, mental, and professional well being.
• Retirement plan with company match.
• Professional development opportunities and continuing education support.
• Flexible scheduling where appropriate for the role.
• A collaborative team culture with experienced support staff and established systems.
• A firm recognized as a five-time Best Company to Work for in Central New York.