Criminal Defense Attorney

Associate Attorney – Criminal Defense

About the Firm

At the Law Office of J. Jon Slade, we are a respected, referral-driven criminal defense firm based in Phoenix. We focus exclusively on criminal defense, protecting the rights of individuals facing misdemeanor and felony charges throughout Arizona.

Our clients trust us because we are honest, responsive, and relentless in our advocacy. We treat every case with urgency, precision, and care, from DUI and domestic violence matters to complex felony trials. We are a small firm by design, which means meaningful responsibility, direct mentorship, and real opportunity for growth.

-->Visit jsladelaw.com to learn more about who we are and the clients we serve.

Position Overview

We are seeking a driven Associate Attorney who is committed to criminal defense and eager to grow into a long-term leadership role within the firm. This position is ideal for an attorney who works hard, wants to learn deeply, and is motivated by hands-on courtroom experience, not just theory.

This role offers a clear path to partnership over approximately six years for the right candidate. You will work closely with the Managing Partner, gain direct client exposure, and build real trial skills in a fast-paced, high-accountability environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Represent clients in misdemeanor and select felony matters from arraignment through resolution
• Appear regularly in court for hearings, oral arguments, and trial proceedings
• Conduct legal research and draft motions, pleadings, and discovery
• Review police reports, body cam footage, and discovery to identify constitutional and procedural issues
• Negotiate plea agreements and alternative dispositions with prosecutors
• Assist in preparing for and participating in jury trials
• Maintain strong, professional client relationships with empathy and responsiveness
• Collaborate with the Managing Partner and support staff to develop defense strategies and case themes
• Manage a caseload efficiently while meeting deadlines and firm standards

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school
• Active member in good standing with the Arizona State Bar
• 2+ years of criminal defense experience preferred (public defense or private practice)
• Confidence in courtroom appearances and oral advocacy
• Strong legal research, writing, and analytical skills
• Ability to manage multiple cases in a fast-moving environment
• Coachable, hardworking, and motivated to grow long-term with the firm
• Aligned with the firm’s values of integrity, honesty, and client-first representation

Why Join Our Team

• Meaningful courtroom experience—you will be in court regularly
• Direct mentorship from an experienced criminal defense attorney
• Exposure to jury trials and advanced litigation strategy
• Clear opportunity for long-term growth and partnership
• Small-firm environment where your work truly matters
• A culture that values accountability, learning, and excellence

Who This Role Is Not For

This role is not ideal for someone looking for minimal court time, a purely academic practice, or short-term experience. We are looking for someone who wants to build something, not just pass through.

Pay: $100,000.00 - $130,000.00 per year

Benefits:

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

Education:

• Doctorate (Required)

Experience:

• Criminal defense : 2 years (Required)

Location:

• Phoenix, AZ 85016 (Required)

Work Location: In person