State Bar of South Dakota
Associate Attorney - Criminal Defense
How your CV stacks up
Upload your CV to see how well it fits this job role
?%
Associate Attorney - Criminal Defense
By Halbach Szwarc Law Firm
6/29/2026
Position: Associate Attorney — Criminal Defense
Location: Hybrid Position – based in Sioux Falls, SD
Position Type: Full-time
About Halbach|Szwarc Law Firm:
Halbach|Szwarc is a full-service law firm with offices in Sioux Falls, SD, and Sioux City, IA. Founded in 2023, we offer a modern, hybrid work environment built on responsiveness, quality, and a people-first culture. Our attorneys serve clients across a broad range of practice areas, including business and real estate law, trust and estate planning, litigation, criminal defense, government investigations, family law, employment and labor, and nonprofit and regulatory matters.
We are deeply committed to mentorship, collaboration, and long-term professional growth. Whether you’re just starting your legal career or looking to expand your expertise, you’ll find a supportive team that values your development and trusts you to contribute meaningfully from day one.
Behind every client experience is a close-knit team of attorneys, paralegals, legal assistants, and administrative professionals working together to deliver efficient, thoughtful, and client-centered legal solutions.
Position Overview:
We are currently seeking a skilled and dedicated criminal defense attorney to join our criminal defense practice group. The ideal candidate will have 3+ years of experience handling criminal cases at the state and federal levels, including misdemeanor and felony cases. This individual will play a key role in advocating for clients' rights and achieving favorable outcomes, whether through negotiation, litigation, or trial and will play a key role in developing and implementing our criminal defense practice strategy.
Reasons to use Rodeo
Start with a chat, not a search bar
Grad scheme, placement, apprenticeship? Not sure what you want yet — that's fine. Your agent talks it through with you and turns "I have no idea" into a shortlist.
It searches the market for you
Every day your agent scans the market matching roles against what actually matters to you, not just keywords on a CV.
Only hits
No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
Applicants must be licensed in South Dakota and able to obtain licensure in Iowa and Nebraska. While candidates with an established client base are encouraged to apply, a willingness to develop business and foster new client relationships is equally important. Halbach|Szwarc attorneys are licensed across South Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska, and Wyoming and serve clients across the U.S. and internationally.
Responsibilities:
- Lead client representation in criminal matters at the state and federal levels, including misdemeanors and felonies, from initial consultation through resolution.
- Manage all phases of a case, including investigation, pretrial motions, discovery, plea negotiations, and trial preparation.
- Appear in court on behalf of clients for arraignments, hearings, trials, and sentencing, delivering strong and strategic advocacy.
- Draft and review legal documents, including motions, briefs, memoranda, and correspondence with clarity, precision, and persuasive legal reasoning.
- Maintain consistent and clear client communication, providing education, guidance, and reassurance throughout each step of the legal process.
- Contribute to practice development, including building client relationships, expanding referral networks, and supporting the firm’s long-term growth strategy.
- Collaborate closely with team members, including attorneys, paralegals, and support staff, in a hybrid environment that values flexibility and shared ownership.
- Stay informed on developments in criminal law and procedure, applying emerging trends and case law to strengthen client strategy and outcomes.
Get help with your application
Your very own career expert that helps elevate your application to the next level.
Qualifications:
- Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
- 3+ years of experience in criminal defense, including trial experience.
- High level of professionalism, empathy, and discretion.
- Excellent courtroom advocacy, negotiation, and communication skills.
- Self-starter with the ability to work independently, manage multiple matters, and meet deadlines effectively in a hybrid work environment.
- Willingness to engage in business development activities and foster client relationships.
Benefits:
- Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
- Unlimited PTO.
- 13 paid holidays.
- 100% firm paid health insurance.
- 100% firm paid vision insurance.
- Monthly technology stipend with firm provided remote technology solutions.
- Bonus eligibility based upon performance.
- Competitive 401(k) and profit sharing.
- Paid continuing education expenses.
- Collaborative and positive work environment.
How To Apply:
If you are a motivated, detailed oriented, and personable individual with a commitment to excellence and client service, we invite you to apply for the Criminal Defense Associate Attorney position at Halbach|Szwarc Law Firm. Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience to Miranda Basye at mirandab@halbachlawfirm.com.
Halbach|Szwarc Law Firm is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Images
Share
Email Facebook LinkedIn X Pinterest
Powered By GrowthZone
Tell a friend about Associate Attorney - Criminal Defense
Helpful Links
Privacy policy
Terms and conditions
“It took my CV and asked me questions relevant to understanding what kind of jobs to suggest for me. Suggestions were almost perfect. Jobs were exactly what I’ve been looking for.”
Jessica, London
Skills
Location