Associate Attorney – Criminal Defense

About Monument Legal

Monument Legal is a small, aggressive trial firm handling criminal defense and personal injury matters, with offices in Washington, D.C., Northern Virginia, and Lansing, Michigan. Our attorneys have earned recognition from Super Lawyers, Best Lawyers, and AV Preeminent, and have built a track record of strong results for clients facing the highest-stakes moments of their lives – from dismissals and not-guilty verdicts in criminal matters to multi-million-dollar personal injury recoveries. We believe every client deserves a fighter, and we’re looking for an associate who wants to become one.

The Opportunity

Monument Legal is seeking an Associate Attorney who is passionate about courtroom advocacy and committed to providing exceptional representation to clients.

This is an opportunity for a lawyer who wants to become an outstanding trial attorney – not someone who wants to spend years reviewing documents from behind a desk. Our associates work directly with clients, appear regularly in D.C. Superior Court, and receive meaningful responsibility from the beginning, along with mentorship from experienced trial lawyers.

Case Mix

Our criminal defense practice is felony and misdemeanor heavy. Associates can expect to work on DUIs, gun cases, drug offenses, criminal investigations, and white-collar and federal matters. Primary practice will occur in D.C. Superior Court, and we anticipate this candidate may also appear in D.C. Federal Court.

Responsibilities

• Represent clients in D.C. Superior Court (and potentially D.C. Federal Court) under appropriate supervision.
• Handle arraignments, status hearings, motions hearings, and trials as experience permits.
• Meet with clients and maintain regular communication throughout their cases.
• Draft motions, sentencing memoranda, and other legal filings.
• Conduct legal research and develop case strategy.
• Work collaboratively with the firm’s attorneys to prepare complex criminal cases.

Qualifications

• Must be a member of the District of Columbia Bar, or bar pending.
• Approximately 1–4 years of litigation experience preferred.
• Experience in criminal defense, prosecution, judicial clerkships, or other litigation is strongly preferred.
• Excellent legal writing and oral advocacy skills.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple cases while providing outstanding client service.
• A genuine desire to develop into an exceptional courtroom advocate.

Start Date

We are looking to fill this position as soon as possible, with a target start date of September 1. For an excellent candidate, there may be some flexibility on timing.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary: $80,000–$120,000, depending on experience and qualifications.
• Performance-based bonus opportunities.
• Health insurance.
• Paid bar dues and CLE.
• Paid time off.
• Mentorship from experienced criminal defense attorneys.
• Significant courtroom experience and opportunities for professional growth.

To Apply

• Resume
• Cover letter explaining your interest in criminal defense
• Three professional references

A writing sample (5–10 pages) will be requested for candidates who advance to the interview stage.