Associate Attorney – Civil and Criminal Appeals

Yates Appellate Law is a boutique Virginia-based appellate practice that helps trial lawyers and clients on appeal. We handle civil and criminal appeals and offer consulting and embedded appellate counsel services.

What we are looking for:

Above all else, you must care deeply about appeals. Do you have a strong opinion about the Oxford comma? Argue for one space—or two—after a period? Do you find yourself compulsively editing your own writing to make it sharper and better? Do you believe there’s always more to learn—and see that as a good thing? You’ve found the right place.

We take great pride in our work. We are looking for good communicators who follow through when they say they will do something. We need someone organized and trustworthy. And we need a good teammate. We love what we do—and we consider it a privilege to work alongside
others who feel the same way.

Perks we can offer: Appeals and nothing but appeals. We can offer the most interesting work imaginable, a work/life balance, conference travel, performance-based bonuses, a 401(k), andremote or hybrid work for the right candidates.

Have experience in criminal appeals but not civil (or vice-versa)? More familiar with federal appeals than state court? Like research and writing but hate oral argument? Barred in another state but willing to become barred here? That’s okay. Please apply if you otherwise fit the bill. What’s important is that you have a growth mindset and believe that you can develop new skills. We face new challenges every day and we need to find someone who is willing to grow and learn with us.

Position Summary:

We’re hiring an associate attorney to assist with all aspects of appellate litigation in Virginia state and federal courts. The role includes client communication, research, drafting, issue spotting, counseling, and oral arguments.

Key Responsibilities:

Drafting and editing appellate briefs and petitions.
Conducting legal research and analysis on complex issues.
Reviewing trial court records for preservation and error.
Discussing strategic decisions with clients and trial counsel.
Assisting with oral argument preparation and delivering oral arguments, when ready.
Managing filing deadlines and procedural compliance.

Minimum Qualifications:

Licensed (or soon-to-be licensed) to practice in Virginia.
Must be able to appear in Virginia courts for oral argument or as embedded appellate
counsel.
2-7 years of legal experience required—at least some of which must have been
exclusively appellate work (in a clerkship or in practice).
Excellent legal writing and research skills.
Strong attention to detail, deadlines, and record clarity.
Comfort working independently with remote tools (Microsoft Teams, etc.).

What You’ll Gain:

Mentorship from an appellate specialist.
Flexibility and work-life balance (remote-friendly!).
Experience across a variety of subject areas.
A chance to do hard work that matters.

How to Apply:

Note: this is a test. Instead of a traditional cover letter, please write us a letter explaining why you love appeals. If you want to explain a unique circumstance, you may include that in one paragraph. Please also include a resume and writing sample.

If not applying through a job platform, please send your application to [email protected] and copy: [email protected]. Include “Attorney Application” as your subject line.