Description:

Why this Role?
Are you a skilled and passionate criminal defense attorney who believes deeply in the right to a vigorous defense? Do you thrive in the courtroom and want to work alongside a team that shares your commitment to fighting for clients at every stage of the process? If so, we want to hear from you.

Mulembo Law PLLC is a growing Tucson firm built on Excellence, Authenticity, and Respect. While our firm handles both family law and criminal defense matters, this position is focused on criminal defense. We are looking for an attorney who is genuinely committed to this area of practice and who is ready to build a meaningful career in a high-performing, team-oriented environment.

If you want consistent courtroom experience, direct and honest feedback, and a firm that moves quickly and holds itself to a high standard, this role offers strong professional growth and the opportunity to make a real difference for clients when it matters most.

What you will do:

Handle criminal defense matters from intake and case strategy through resolution, including misdemeanors, felonies, DUI, domestic violence, drug offenses, and other criminal charges in Arizona courts
Appear regularly in court for arraignments, pretrial conferences, motion hearings, evidentiary proceedings, and trials
Conduct thorough legal research to build strong defense strategies
Draft and argue motions to suppress, motions to dismiss, and other pretrial and trial motions
Negotiate with prosecutors effectively on behalf of clients, pursuing the best possible outcomes
Advise clients clearly and compassionately on their rights, their options, and the realities of their cases
Communicate effectively with clients and colleagues, maintaining organized case files and documentation throughout the process
Collaborate with paralegals and support staff to move cases efficiently while maintaining strong client communication

Work Structure
This role follows a hybrid work model:

Court appearances and certain client meetings must be conducted onsite
Office presence is expected for collaboration, trial preparation, and team coordination as needed
Administrative work, drafting, and case preparation may be completed remotely when appropriate

Our Values:
Excellence, authenticity, and respect guide how we practice law and work together. Authenticity means respectful directness. We communicate clearly, address issues early, and hold ourselves accountable in a deadline-driven environment.

Inclusive Workplace
We are committed to maintaining an inclusive and respectful workplace where team members are supported, treated fairly, and able to perform at a high level. We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds and perspectives.

Required Qualifications:

Active Arizona Bar admission in good standing
Demonstrated criminal defense experience, including courtroom appearances and hearings
Strong commitment to criminal defense advocacy and client rights
Solid legal writing, research, and analytical skills
Reliable, professional, and clear client communication
Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple deadlines simultaneously
Self-motivated with a genuine desire to advance a career within a growing firm
Ability to travel for court-related hearings throughout Arizona

Preferred Backgrounds

Experience handling felony matters, including jury or bench trials, strongly preferred
Experience with DUI defense, domestic violence matters, or drug offense cases a plus
Familiarity with Pima County Superior Court and local court procedures is an advantage
Immigration and/or family law experience considered if accompanied by strong criminal defense or hearing experience