Description:

Are you a motivated attorney looking to build your career in criminal defense? Torres & Caraves Law invites you to apply.

At Torres & Caraves Law, we are dedicated to providing exceptional bilingual legal representation and are seeking an Associate Criminal Defense Attorney to join our team. This role offers hands-on courtroom experience, mentorship from seasoned attorneys, and the opportunity to develop into a skilled trial lawyer. You will manage your own caseload while also supporting senior attorneys on more complex matters. If you are ready to advocate effectively for our clients and grow your legal career, we encourage you to apply.

Why Join Torres & Caraves Law

Real-World Courtroom Experience: Handle cases from intake to resolution and develop trial advocacy skills.
Diverse Caseload: Work on a range of misdemeanor and felony cases involving varied legal issues.
Mentorship & Training: Work closely with experienced attorneys who are invested in your development.
Collaborative Environment: Gain exposure to both independent case handling and team-based litigation.
Career Growth: Clear opportunities for advancement within the firm.

Job Responsibilities and Expectations

As an Associate Criminal Defense Attorney, your responsibilities will include:
Case Management: Handle misdemeanor and felony cases from intake through resolution, with supervision as needed based on experience level.
Court Appearances: Represent clients at arraignments, pre-trial conferences, motion hearings, plea negotiations, and trials.
Client Communication and Strategy: Conduct client interviews, provide legal advice, and maintain clear and consistent communication.
Legal Research and Writing: Draft motions, briefs, and memoranda in support of case strategy.
Negotiation and Plea Bargaining: Work with prosecutors to secure favorable outcomes for clients.
Trial Preparation and Advocacy: Assist in and, when ready, conduct trials including witness examination, jury selection, and opening and closing arguments.
Support Senior Attorneys: Assist with more complex felony matters and contribute to team strategy on senior attorney caseloads.
Compliance and Ethics: Adhere to all legal and ethical standards.
Collaboration: Work closely with attorneys, paralegals, and administrative staff.
Continuing Legal Education: Stay current with developments in criminal law and complete required CLE courses.

Minimum Qualifications:

Bilingual in Spanish (highly preferred)
0–3 years of experience in criminal defense or related field
Prior courtroom exposure or internship/clinic experience preferred
Trial experience is a plus, but not required; willingness to take cases to trial is essential
Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school
Active California Bar license in good standing (or pending admission)
Strong communication, negotiation, and advocacy skills
Collaborative, proactive, and growth-oriented mindset

Compensation and Benefits: