Criminal Lawyer Job Description

What is the job description of a Criminal Lawyer? What are the duties and responsibilities of a Criminal Lawyer? What does a Criminal Lawyer do?

Job description of a Criminal Lawyer

Criminal Lawyers (also known as Criminal Defense Lawyers) defend individuals who have been accused of committing a crime. Criminal Lawyers conduct research, analyze cases, and present their findings in court in an effort to gain the defendant's freedom or negotiate a plea bargain or settlement.

This Criminal Lawyer job description example includes the list of most important Criminal Lawyer duties and responsibilities as shown below. It can be modified to fit the specific Criminal Lawyer profile you're trying to fill as a recruiter or job seeker.

Criminal Lawyer Duties and Responsibilities

Criminal Lawyer job description should contain a variety of functions and roles including:

  • Conduct research and analyze a case to determine a probable outcome and devise an effective strategy to defend your client/s in court.
  • Interpret laws for clients and help them to understand their legal options.
  • Aim to resolve cases as quickly and favorably as possible.
  • Represent clients at arraignments, hearings, and court trials.
  • Present evidence to a judge and/or jury should the case go to trial.
  • Prepare and draft legal documents, including legal briefs and appeals.
  • Negotiate plea negotiations, punishments, and settlements.
  • Undergo ongoing training to stay updated about changes and new developments in the legal field.
  • Conduct yourself in an ethical and professional manner at all times.

Criminal Lawyer Requirements / Skills / Qualifications

Criminal Lawyer job description should include these common skills and qualifications:

  • Bachelor of Law degree.
  • Passed bar exam.
  • Experience may be preferred.
  • Comply with local, state, and federal laws.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Strong critical thinking and research skills.
  • Excellent decision-making and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work autonomously and with a team of lawyers.
  • Occasional travel required.

As a hiring manager, recruiting an ideal Criminal Lawyer starts with crafting a good job description. Use this Criminal Lawyer job description template to save yourself time and help you attract the most qualified candidates. Feel free to revise it to meet your specific needs.

Job seekers interviewing for the role of a Criminal Lawyer may also reference it in preparation for the interview.