Associate Attorney - Criminal Defense & Civil Litigation

Direct Counsel is looking for Associate Attorney - Criminal Defense & Civil Litigation in Los Angeles, CA.
This local job opportunity with ID 3687656427 is live since 2026-05-21 20:51:44.
Junior Associate Attorney (Criminal Defense & Civil Litigation)
Los Angeles, CA (Koreatown / Mid-Wilshire)
Direct Counsel | Permanent Role
Direct Counsel is partnering with a growing litigation firm in Los Angeles (Koreatown / Mid-Wilshire) seeking a Junior Associate Attorney to join its expanding team. This is an exciting opportunity to become the firm's first full-time associate, working closely with leadership and gaining hands-on experience across both criminal defense and civil litigation matters.
Why This Role Stands Out

• Immediate hands-on experience in both courtroom and litigation work
• Opportunity to grow into substantive, high-impact cases
• Direct mentorship from firm leadership
• Flexible work structure depending on your practice focus

Key Responsibilities
Criminal Defense:

• Gradually take on court appearances (hearings, status conferences, etc.)
• Assist with case preparation and strategy

Civil Litigation:

• Draft pleadings, answers, and motions
• Handle discovery (drafting & responses)
• Conduct legal research and prepare memos
• Support litigation involving matters often tied to criminal events (e.g., assault, battery)

General:

• Work closely with firm leadership to develop litigation skills
• Take on increasingly substantive and complex work over time

What We're Looking For

• 1-3 years of experience (open to up to 4 years for strong candidates)
• Strong legal writing and research skills
• Experience or interest in civil litigation and/or criminal defense
• Trainable, motivated, and growth-oriented mindset
• Comfortable working in a smaller, entrepreneurial firm environment

Work Arrangement

• On-site preferred for candidates interested in courtroom exposure
• Hybrid/remote flexibility for candidates focused on civil litigation work
• Structure depends on the mix of criminal vs. civil responsibilities

Compensation

• Salary Range: $125,000 - $155,000/yr
• Benefits and Discretionary Performance-Based Bonuses

This is a great opportunity for a junior attorney looking to accelerate their career, gain real courtroom exposure, and work on meaningful cases in a supportive, growth-focused environment.
Apply confidentially by sending your resume to rawan@directcounsel.net read more