What does a Trial Attorney do?
Trial attorneys represent clients or other parties in legal cases and frequently make their arguments in a courtroom setting. If they are in the prosecuting role, they typically work for a government department or entity, whereas other trial lawyers work for businesses or private firms. They oversee depositions, question witnesses, present closing arguments, and guide the overall legal strategy. They provide legal advice throughout the entire process, and may coordinate settlements or pleadings. They also manage appeal proceedings. They conduct extensive research to explore legal precedents.
Trial attorneys must possess a JD degree and be licensed to practice law in their state. They should have extensive courtroom experience and the ability to make a strong, persuasive argument. These roles require excellent research skills, and in-depth understanding of legal strategies and procedures.
- Review and edit attorney motions and responses relevant to court cases.
- Analyze assigned cases and prepare the cases for trial.
- Review documents and provide direction and oversight to non-legal staff.
- Direct and undertake discovery practice including depositions, expert selection and all other pre-trial preparations.
- Complete work assignments in a timely, accurate and efficient manner.
- Develop and implement harm reduction strategies for both pre-trial monitoring and dispositions.
- Keep clients updated on case status and answer questions.
- Identify and address both routine and complex legal issues and develop creative solutions.
- Prepare pleadings, motions, briefs, letters, memoranda, reports, appeals, articles, etc. using our legal case management software.
- Bachelor's Degree in business, law, or computer science.
- Advanced expertise in working with plaintiffs.
- Comfortable serving in an advocacy role.
- Strong leadership, negotiation, and critical thinking skills.
- Able to project a strong sense of confidence.
- Highly collaborative, capable to work with staff and other attorneys on-site and remotely, as well as serving as a role model and mentor to other associates within the office.
How much does a Trial Attorney make?
Base Pay
Additional Pay
$130,360
/ yrTrial Attorney Career Path
Learn how to become a Trial Attorney, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.
Average Years of Experience
Trial Attorney Insights
Allstate“Good work life balance; I get 25 days PTO a year (been here 4 years).”
Dr. Reddy's“Good pay but not competitive”
Cordell & Cordell“Annual awards gala is nice.”
City of Houston“Regular hours for working is attractive .”
Kemper“Large workload which can feel overwhelming.”
New York City Department of Education“Good amount of responsibility and learning early in your career.”
“Career advancement including pathway to income and equity partnerships.”
“There are endless opportunities to learn and become better.”
Frequently asked questions about the roles and responsibilities of a Trial Attorney
- Document Review Attorney
- Attorney
- Project Attorney
- Counsel