Federal Criminal Defense Junior Associate Attorney

Description

LGR Law is a small, boutique firm focused exclusively on federal criminal defense in New Jersey and New York. The firm emphasizes passionate, dedicated advocacy for clients facing serious federal charges, with a commitment to protecting constitutional rights and delivering high-quality, personalized legal representation. As a close-knit team, LGR Law offers frequent opportunities for all of its attorneys to litigate complex federal cases, collaborate closely with support staff, and maintain direct, frequent communication with clients.

The culture values strong organizational skills, adaptability, excellent communication, strong research skills, and persuasive writing, fostering professional growth in a fast-paced, high-stakes practice. The firm’s reputation for excellence is reflected in its leadership’s recognition as a SuperLawyer and its active role on the CJA Panels in multiple federal districts, underscoring a culture of integrity, expertise, and commitment to justice.

About the Role:

We are seeking a junior associate attorney who will do the following:

• Co-manage a diverse federal caseload, with support from experienced paralegals and legal staff, and under the direction of experienced and seasoned federal criminal defense trial attorneys.
• Take primary responsibility for drafting and timely filing of motions, sentencing submissions, briefs (including appellate), and all plea and trial documents.
• Assist in preparation for oral arguments and evidentiary hearings.
• Maintain frequent communication with clients, both in person and by phone, including periodic visits to county jails for pre-trial detainees.
• Litigate complex criminal matters in federal court, with early opportunities for court appearances and hands-on advocacy.
• Strategize with senior trial attorneys about representing clients in federal court.

Who We’re Looking For:

• Licensed to practice law in New Jersey and New York.
• At least 1 year of relevant experience in criminal law, or have completed criminal court clerkship.
• Excellent organizational skills and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong persuasive writing and oral advocacy abilities.
• Outstanding communication skills and professionalism in all interactions.
• Attention to detail and the ability to closely follow rules in filing documents.
• Willingness to learn, grow, and adapt as part of a close-knit team.
• The ability to take direction and follow procedures as outlined by supervisors, as well as the ability to lead a trial team in preparing for court appearances.
• A strong desire to learn and grow as a federal criminal defense trial attorney
• Above all, a true passion for protecting the constitutional rights of the accused.

Compensation:

• Competitive and commensurate with experience.

To Apply:

Please submit your resume, cover letter, and a writing sample.

Responsibilities:

In this role, you will be responsible for co-managing a caseload with the support of our paralegal and legal staff. You will be primarily responsible for the timely filing of all motions, sentencing submissions, briefs, appellate briefs, and other plea, sentencing, appellate, and trial documents. You will also be responsible for assisting in the preparation for oral arguments, evidentiary hearings, and trials.

Frequent communication with clients, both telephonically and in person, is required. Due to the nature of the clientele, this role requires visits to state and federal jails where clients are detained. You will have the opportunity very early on to make appearances in federal court, with the opportunity to get a tremendous amount of trial and other in-court experience.

Qualifications:

The ideal candidate is organized, can work in a fast-paced environment, and is an excellent communicator. Strong research skills and persuasive writing skills are necessary. A willingness to grow, learn, and adapt is a must. Someone with at least 2 years of criminal experience is preferred, however, we will consider someone with less experience who has a clerkship. Must be admitted to practice law in New Jersey and New York. Most importantly, the ideal candidate has a true passion for protecting the constitutional rights of the accused.

Job Type: Full-time

Expected Hours: vary

Schedule:

• Shifts are determined by meeting billable hour requirements

Compensation: $75,000 to start. Will be reviewed in 6 months.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: Up to $75,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Work Location: In person