Defender Association of Philadelphia · 2 days ago
Assistant Defender - Trial Attorney (Lateral)
Philadelphia, PA
Full-time
Onsite
Mid Level
3+ years expThe Defender Association of Philadelphia is a non-profit law firm serving clients in the city of Philadelphia, seeking an experienced trial attorney for their criminal trial practice divisions. The role involves comprehensive client representation in criminal courts, managing complex cases, and collaborating with a team of legal professionals to provide holistic legal support.
ConsultingLaw EnforcementLegal
Responsibilities
Handle all aspects of client representation in the Philadelphia Criminal Courts, including but not limited to preliminary hearings, motions, waiver trials, jury trials, and violations of probation
Maintain and manage an adult criminal caseload within the assigned trial unit. This involves specially-assigned, complex cases of all types, including cases where clients are charged with violent and sexual offenses
Draft, file, and argue all necessary motions and memoranda of law
Interview clients over the telephone, in-person, and at county and state correctional institutions
Engage in holistic representation practices that assist the client in collateral matters that may impact the direct legal representation of the client
Maintain a professional team-oriented work atmosphere with other attorneys, social workers, investigators and administrative staff within the unit, and all other units at the Defender Association
Qualification
Required
Juris Doctor required, must be Pennsylvania bar member (active and in good standing)
Minimum of three years' experience providing direct legal representation to individuals involved in the criminal justice system, including litigating complex felony cases
A demonstrated interest in and commitment to the representation of individuals who are indigent within the criminal justice system
Ability to adapt to changing needs of the Defender Association and to work collaboratively with all Defender staff
Must be able to travel to courtrooms, local and statewide prisons/facilities if needed
Preferred
Jury trial experience preferred
Benefits
Very generous and rich benefits plan with many employer paid benefit
Substantial paid time off including 35 PTO days plus all federal holidays off
401(b) with Employer Match
PSLF eligible employer
Meaningful & Impactful Work
Growth Opportunities
Ongoing Training and Development of You
Company
Defender Association of Philadelphia
Defender Association of Philadelphia is a law firm that provides legal services for indigent criminal defendants.
501-1000 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageLeadership Team
Carolyn Jester
Chief Financial Officer
Recent News
The Philadelphia Inquirer
2026-01-16
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2026-01-14
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2025-06-05
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