Criminal Defense Attorney

Associate Attorney – Be in Court Every Day, Not Behind a Desk! Join Our Team!

About Our Firm:

Are you passionate about being a trial lawyer, and eager to make a real difference?

DCD LAW, Inc. is not your typical law firm. We are a fast-growing, trial-driven criminal defense team with offices in Van Nuys, San Fernando, Antelope Valley, and Pasadena. Our main office is right across the street from the Van Nuys Courthouse.

We fight hard for our clients, and do it as a tight-knit crew that works hard, laughs hard, and treats each other like family. Our culture is supportive, fun, and full of energy. We enjoy what we do — and we get it done! And we are on the hunt for another exceptional Associate Attorney to join our growing and amazing team!

What We Are Looking For:

While our core focus is serious criminal defense, we are also open to attorneys who can help us expand into personal injury, family law, and immigration. If you’re passionate about criminal law, great. If you bring additional practice area experience, even better — we are looking to grow our reach and impact. We also handle many restraining orders.

About the Role:

This is a courtroom-heavy, hands-on position. You won’t be stuck behind a desk all day. You’ll be driving all over to different courthouses, advocating for clients, negotiating with prosecutors, drafting motions, and preparing for trials. Never a dull day here!

From day one, you’ll take on meaningful responsibility — with training and mentorship if you’re newer, and room to grow fast if you’re more experienced.

Key Responsibilities:

• Appear in criminal courts across Southern California
• Manage case continuances, negotiations, and plea deals
• Draft and argue legal motions
• Prepare mitigation packets and dismissal requests
• Assist in trial prep and participate in preliminary hearings and trials
• Conduct discovery and legal research
• Maintain regular client communication and updates
• Contribute to firm growth, including occasional marketing and social media efforts

Qualifications:

• Juris Doctor (JD) and licensed in California
• Strong interest in criminal defense; experience in PI, family, or immigration welcome
• Excellent advocacy, research, and writing skills
• Organized and detail-oriented; able to manage multiple cases at once
• Spanish fluency strongly preferred
• Federal Bar admission is a plus

"Probationary" Period

Our 3–6 month probationary period isn’t just a test — it’s a launchpad. During this time, you’ll:

• Get full training and mentorship from senior attorneys
• Second-chair hearings and trials
• Learn our systems and case strategies
• Build confidence in handling cases

At the end of probation, successful attorneys see salary increases, greater independence, and more courtroom responsibility. We’ve designed it to set you up for long-term success.

Salary & Benefits:

• Salary starting at $90,000.00 - $120,000.00 or more, depending on experience
• 401(k) with match, health insurance, with eligible dental, vision, and PTO
• Hands-on mentorship and training (we will train newer attorneys).
• Real courtroom experience from day one
• A supportive, family-style office culture that’s fun, energetic, and hardworking

Why Join DCD LAW:

This is more than a job — it’s a career path. At DCD LAW, you’ll gain courtroom experience, mentorship, and the chance to help shape the future of a growing defense firm. You’ll be part of a team that values results, teamwork, and impact — and knows how to keep things fun along the way.

How to Apply:

Send your resume and a cover letter telling us why you’re the right fit. We’re hiring ASAP and ready to meet the right candidate.

DCD LAW, Inc. is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.