Trial Attorney - Santa Ana

Job Duties

• Aggressively litigating criminal cases in federal court from the client’s initial bail proceedings through jury trial and sentencing.
• Researching and drafting creative, innovative motions.
• Collaborating with a team of investigators, paralegals, and support staff to prepare the client’s case for trial.
• Appearing at all court hearings, including as lead or second-chair in jury trials.
• Visiting the client, including at detention facilities, to review discovery and prepare a defense strategy.
• Developing persuasive mitigation for negotiations and sentencing.
• On occasion, litigating appeals and post-conviction matters.

Requirements

• Graduated from an accredited law school and a member in good standing of the California Bar or willing to sit for the next California Bar exam.
• Preference given to applicants with at least three years of experience in state and/or federal criminal law or federal judicial clerkship experience.
• Experience or a commitment to working with culturally diverse populations and marginalized communities is desired.
• Varying hours including nights, weekends, and holidays may be required.

Selection Criteria

• Demonstrated commitment to indigent criminal defense and/or public interest law.
• Superior oral and written communication skills.
• Excellent research skills.
• Works well in teams.

Salary/Benefits

• This is a full-time, at-will position.
• Salary is commensurate with qualifications and experience and is subject to direct deposit.
• Benefits include health and life insurance, retirement, and a Thrift Savings Plan.
• After completion of a successful probationary period, eligible employees may elect to telework up to 2 days per week, subject to certain conditions.

How to Apply

To apply, submit a letter of interest, résumé, two representative writing samples (limited to 15 pages each), and three references. Applications accepted until August 12, 2026, or until filled. Interviews will occur on a rolling basis.