Associate Criminal Defense Attorney
Phillips Law — New Orleans, Louisiana
Location: New Orleans, LA
License: Louisiana Bar (required)
Experience: 1+ year criminal law (ADA or defense)
Compensation & Benefits: Salary commensurate with experience, PTO, Health Insurance
Phillips Law is a growing New Orleans criminal defense firm where associate attorneys take primary responsibility for their cases, appear regularly in court for hearings and trials, and continue developing strong litigation skills alongside experienced criminal defense attorneys in a collaborative, supportive team environment.
We are seeking an Associate Criminal Defense Attorney with 1+ year of criminal law experience (prosecution or defense) who is ready to take ownership of a caseload while continuing to grow into a highly capable criminal defense advocate. This role offers meaningful responsibility, real courtroom experience, and close collaboration with senior attorneys committed to developing excellent litigators.
Responsibilities
Independently manage a criminal defense caseload with primary responsibility from intake through resolution
Appear regularly in Orleans and Jefferson Parish courts for arraignments, hearings, motions, and trials
Conduct client meetings and provide clear, practical legal guidance
Draft, file, and argue motions and legal pleadings
Develop case strategy and negotiate with prosecutors
Maintain organized case files and deadlines in Clio
Communicate proactively with clients, courts, and team
Collaborate with senior attorneys on case strategy and litigation approach
Caseload & Trial Development
Caseload assignments and trial opportunities are aligned with experience level. Associates initially handle misdemeanor and lower-level felony matters, with increasing case complexity and courtroom responsibility over time. Trials are conducted with senior attorney support, providing structured litigation development without a sink-or-swim expectation.
Qualifications
Licensed to practice law in Louisiana
1+ year criminal law experience (ADA or defense)
Orleans and/or Jefferson Parish court experience preferred
Ability to independently manage and advance cases
Strong courtroom presence and communication skills
Organized, reliable, and detail-oriented
Flexible in a fast-paced court environment
Growth-oriented and motivated to develop litigation skills
Client-centered; enjoys working one-on-one with clients
Team-oriented while self-directed and accountable
Please send resume and brief cover letter to:
jobs@bphillipslaw.com
Subject: Associate Attorney Application