Criminal Trial Associate Attorney

Watson Kuhlman LLC; Cleveland (OH); On-site; USD 92,500 - 102,500; Full time

Job summary

A leading law firm in Cleveland seeks a full-time Associate Attorney specializing in criminal law. This role offers hands-on courtroom experience and collaboration with seasoned trial attorneys. Responsibilities include conducting legal research, drafting motions, and preparing for trials. Ideal candidates have a Juris Doctor degree, passed the bar exam, and possess strong communication and problem-solving skills. Compensation ranges from $92,500 to $102,500 per year, with high bonus potential based on performance.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
• Successful completion of the bar exam.
• Experience or strong interest in criminal defense or trial advocacy.

Responsibilities

• Draft and prepare legal documents related to criminal cases.
• Conduct legal research on criminal statutes and case law.
• Assist senior attorneys in preparing for trials and hearings.
• Attend hearings and trials, and maintain organized client files.

Skills

Legal research

Drafting legal documents

Courtroom communication

Problem-solving skills

Team collaboration

Education

Juris Doctor (J.D.)

Completion of bar exam

Job description

Associate Attorney - Criminal Trial with Fast-Growing Law Firm Our firm is seeking a full-time Associate Attorney with a strong interest in criminal law and trial litigation. This role offers the opportunity to work closely with experienced trial attorneys, gain hands-on courtroom experience, and support clients through all stages of criminal proceedings. You’ll conduct legal research, draft motions and pleadings, prepare for trial, and provide strategic support on active cases. You will have the opportunity to grow and advance as our law firm continues to grow and dominate our legal market. If you’re passionate about criminal defense, eager to build your trial skills, and looking for a firm where you can grow and excel, we encourage you to apply if you want to be a difference maker! Compensation- $92,500 - 102,500 DOE+ High Bonus Potential Based on Key Performance Indicators yearly

Responsibilities

• Draft and prepare legal documents, including motions, pleadings, briefs, affidavits, and trial materials related to criminal cases.
• Conduct legal research on criminal statutes, case law, sentencing guidelines, and procedural rules.
• Assist senior attorneys in preparing for hearings, arraignments, pretrial conferences, depositions, and trials.
• Attend hearings and trial proceedings with senior attorneys; may conduct routine hearings independently based on experience.
• Analyze case facts, evaluate evidence, and support strategy development for criminal defense matters.
• Communicate with clients, witnesses, court personnel, and internal team members to ensure each case is progressing efficiently.
• Maintain organized client files with up-to-date motions, discovery, and correspondence.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
• Successful completion of the bar exam.
• Experience or strong interest in criminal defense, litigation, or trial advocacy.
• Excellent research, writing, and courtroom communication skills.
• Ability to pivot and adapt to legal challenges and changes of circumstances.
• A go-getter who wants to achieve the highest results and excellent outcomes.
• Ability to work collaboratively with senior attorneys and support staff.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to think quickly in high-pressure situations.
• A fierce competitive spirit to be resilient in the face of difficult circumstances.

Compensation

Compensation: $92,500-$102,500 per year