Associate Criminal Defense Attorney

Lee Viacava Law Firm is seeking an Associate Criminal Defense Attorney to join our Fort Myers practice.

We are looking for a lawyer who is passionate about criminal defense, wants significant courtroom experience, and is interested in building a long-term career in private practice.

This is an opportunity to handle meaningful cases from beginning to end while working within an established criminal defense practice. The associate will have substantial responsibility and direct client contact, including court appearances, depositions, negotiations, motion practice, and trials.

Compensation

• $90,000–$125,000 base salary, depending on experience, plus performance-based bonus opportunities. Compensation above this range may be considered for candidates with significant criminal litigation and trial experience.
• Paid time off
• Paid holidays
• Additional benefits to be discussed based on experience

Responsibilities

• Manage misdemeanor and felony criminal cases
• Communicate directly with clients
• Review discovery and develop case strategy
• Attend arraignments, pretrial conferences, hearings, and other court proceedings
• Conduct depositions
• Negotiate with prosecutors
• Research, draft, and argue motions
• Prepare cases for trial
• Conduct jury and non-jury trials
• Maintain organized case files, calendars, and deadlines

Qualifications

• Florida Bar membership in good standing
• Minimum of three (3) years of experience practicing law, with substantial criminal law experience
• Prior experience as an Assistant Public Defender, Assistant State Attorney, or criminal defense attorney is preferred, but other relevant litigation experience will be considered
• Strong interest in criminal defense
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Professional courtroom presence
• Ability to independently manage cases and deadlines
• Strong judgment, organization, and work ethic

This is not a position where an associate will spend years waiting for meaningful courtroom experience.

You will have the opportunity to work directly with clients, handle cases, take depositions, litigate motions, negotiate resolutions, and try cases.

We are looking for someone who wants to become an important part of the firm's future. As your responsibility, performance and contribution to the practice grow, there is significant opportunity for increased compensation and professional growth.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $90,000–$125,000 base salary per year, plus performance-based bonus opportunities

Location: Fort Myers, Florida

To Apply:

Please submit a resume and a brief introduction describing your criminal law experience, including your experience with trials, motions, evidentiary hearings, and depositions.

Please also explain why you are interested in joining Lee Viacava Law Firm and where you see yourself professionally in the next 3–5 years.

All inquiries and applications will be handled confidentially.

Lee Viacava Law Firm is an established Fort Myers criminal defense firm representing clients throughout Southwest Florida. Our practice is focused on providing high-quality, personalized representation while aggressively protecting our clients' rights. We value preparation, professionalism, strong client relationships, and effective courtroom advocacy. We offer attorneys the opportunity to handle meaningful cases, develop their litigation skills, and play an important role in the continued growth of the firm.