Associate Attorney, Criminal Defense and Administrative Law

Associate Attorney – Criminal Defense & Administrative Law

Location: San Diego, CA

Job Type: Full-Time | Virtual & In-Person

Compensation: Competitive, based on experience

We are seeking a motivated Associate Attorney to join our San Diego-based law practice. Our firm handles a broad range of criminal defense matters, including federal criminal cases, and has a growing administrative law practice focused on professional license defense and university disciplinary proceedings.

The ideal candidate has a strong interest in criminal defense and litigation, with experience in administrative law preferred but not required. We are looking for an attorney who enjoys working on a variety of legal matters, is very comfortable working directly with clients, and is eager to grow with our practice.

Equally important are strong interpersonal skills and a client-focused approach. The ideal candidate is personable, approachable, and consultative, with the ability to build trust, communicate clearly, and guide clients and their families through difficult situations. Experience working with students, young adults, and parents is especially valuable.

Key Responsibilities & Duties

• Represent clients in state criminal defense matters, including investigations, hearings, negotiations, and court proceedings.
• Handle administrative law matters involving professional licensing boards, disciplinary investigations, and administrative hearings.
• Conduct legal research and draft motions, pleadings, briefs, legal memoranda, and other case-related documents.
• Assist senior attorneys with case preparation, legal research, document review, and litigation support, including on federal criminal matters as needed.
• Represent students in university disciplinary proceedings, including student misconduct allegations, suspension and expulsion matters, and related hearings.
• Manage assigned cases from initial consultation through resolution, with guidance from senior attorneys as appropriate.
• Communicate regularly with clients, explaining legal options, case strategies, timelines, and next steps.
• Work closely with students, parents, and families, providing thoughtful guidance and responsive communication throughout the legal process.
• Prepare clients and witnesses for interviews, hearings, and court appearances, as appropriate.
• Review evidence, investigative reports, discovery materials, and administrative records to develop effective defense strategies.
• Work with prosecutors, opposing counsel, university representatives, licensing boards, and administrative agencies to negotiate resolutions when appropriate.
• Maintain organized case files, manage deadlines, and ensure timely follow-through.
• Collaborate with senior attorneys and support staff on case strategy, preparation, and client service.

Qualifications

• Active membership in good standing with the California State Bar required.
• Prior litigation or criminal defense experience preferred.
• Administrative law experience preferred but not required, particularly in professional license defense, licensing board proceedings, student misconduct defense, or administrative hearings.
• Experience with university disciplinary proceedings is a strong plus.
• Excellent legal research, writing, analytical, and advocacy skills.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with an emphasis on client relationships and responsiveness.
• Ability to manage multiple matters, meet deadlines, and work both independently and collaboratively.
• Must be based in the San Diego area and available to work both virtually and in person as needed.

Professional Growth & Opportunity

We are a small but growing firm looking for an attorney who wants to grow with us. Our marketing and client intake efforts are expanding, creating opportunities for the right person to take on more responsibility, gain experience across multiple areas of law, and play a meaningful role in the firm's growth.

We value initiative, strong performance, and exceptional client service. As the practice grows, there is potential for greater autonomy, career advancement, and increased earning opportunities based on experience, contributions, and performance.

We are looking to fill this position as soon as possible.

Compensation

Competitive compensation commensurate with experience, qualifications, and level of responsibility, with opportunities for compensation growth as the attorney develops within the practice.

Pay: $75,000.00 - $125,000.00 per year

Work Location: Hybrid remote in San Diego, CA 92123