Criminal Defense Attorney - Jury Trial Litigator

Redefine justice. Elevate your career.

Join Henkels & Baker, PC, a premier Iowa law firm where compassion meets courtroom firepower. We’re seeking a seasoned Criminal Defense Attorney with 5+ years of jury trial experience to fight for clients’ rights in state courts across Northeast Iowa and beyond.

If you’re ready to stand tall in court, change lives, and join a people-first team, this is your moment.

Why Henkels & Baker?

We don’t just offer jobs; we create careers. Here’s why top attorneys choose us:

Competitive Compensation: Starting at $120,000/year plus bonuses and benefits. For the right candidate, we will match or exceed your current compensation and benefits.

Local Roots, Flexible Work: Be based in or near Dubuque, Iowa (relocation support provided), with the flexibility to work remotely when you’re not in court.

Outstanding Benefits:

• Retirement plan with employer match
• All federal holidays, unlimited PTO, and generous family leave policies to recharge.
• Access to cutting-edge technology.
• Support for professional development and continuing education.
• Flexible scheduling tailored to you
• A People-First Culture: Guided by values like kindness, authenticity, and relentless commitment to quality, we foster an environment where your contributions truly matter

Compensation- Starting at $120,000 yearly (will match current salary and benefits)

$120,000 yearly to start

What You’ll Do

Step into a role where your trial experience takes center stage. Key responsibilities include:

Courtroom Advocacy:

• Represent clients in jury trials, start to finish — from voir dire to closing arguments.
• Handle all aspects of motion practice, plea negotiations, and sentencing advocacy.

Strategic Defense:

• Build compelling case strategies across a wide range of state criminal matters — from misdemeanors to serious felonies.
• Provide clear, empathetic guidance to clients, navigating the most difficult moments of their lives.

Collaboration:

• Work closely with our legal assistants and paralegals to deliver excellence at every stage of representation.

This is not a training role. If you haven’t stood before a jury, this position isn’t for you.

What Makes You a Great Fit?

We’re looking for a seasoned trial lawyer who embodies both courtroom strength and client-centered care:

Proven Expertise:

• Juris Doctor (JD) and active Iowa Bar license (or eligibility for such).
• 5+ years of criminal defense experience, including jury trials tried to verdict.

Trial Confidence:

• History of effective advocacy before judges and juries.

Self-Motivation:

• Strong organizational skills and the ability to excel both in the courtroom and with independent case management.

Client-Centered Mindset:

• You fight hard for clients, but always with empathy and professionalism.

Cultural Fit:

• You value kindness, continuous improvement, and teamwork.

Who We Are

At Henkels & Baker, PC, we’re more than a law firm—we’re a source of hope for clients facing financial hardship. From the moment clients walk through our (virtual) doors, they experience our commitment to care, clarity, and compassion.

Our core values guide every decision:

• Care and Concern for Others
• Commitment to Quality
• Growth Mindset
• Kindness, Always
• Bridging Confusion and Clarity
• Authenticity

We’ve built a culture where employees are empowered to grow, clients feel supported, and success is shared.