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Assistant Deputy Public Defender Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Washoe County

DEPUTY PUBLIC DEFENDER

Reno, NV · On-site

$116K - $249K/yr

Position Information THE WASHOE COUNTY PUBLIC DEFENDER'S OFFICE is accepting applications for the position of Deputy Public Defender in the Criminal Division. Attorneys in the Criminal Division ...

Washoe County, NV

DEPUTY PUBLIC DEFENDER

Reno, NV · On-site

$116K - $249K/yr

Public Defender Opening Date: 12/24/2024 Position Information THE WASHOE COUNTY PUBLIC DEFENDER'S OFFICE is accepting applications for the position of Deputy Public Defender in the Criminal Division.

County of Yolo

Deputy Public Defender I-IV

Woodland, CA

$170K - $207K/yr

Deputy Public Defender I $96,033.60 - $116,708.80 Annually Deputy Public Defender II $118,081.60 - $143,540.80 Annually Deputy Public Defender III $145,392.00 - $176,737.60 Annually Deputy Public ...

allencounty

Assistant Public Defender Juvenile

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

$63K - $84K/yr

Special Occupation Date: 04/2023 Under the direction of the Chief Public Defender, the Deputy Public Defender provides criminal defense to indigent defendants in the courts of Allen County, Indiana ...

Elkhart County Government

Deputy Public Defender

Goshen, IN · On-site

$88K - $174K/yr

Professional/Deputy Public Defender Date Posted: 6/26/2026 Location: Public Defender Date Available ... Conduct client interviews, both in and out of the correctional facilities, process trials, assist ...

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Assistant Deputy Public Defender information

What is an assistant deputy public defender?

An Assistant Deputy Public Defender is a licensed attorney who works for a public defender's office and represents individuals who cannot afford private legal counsel in criminal cases. They handle a range of duties including interviewing clients, preparing legal documents, negotiating plea deals, and representing clients in court. Their primary responsibility is to ensure that their clients' constitutional rights are protected and to advocate on their behalf throughout the criminal justice process. These attorneys often work on a high volume of cases and may handle both misdemeanor and felony matters, depending on the jurisdiction.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant deputy public defender?

To thrive as an Assistant Deputy Public Defender, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, admission to the state bar, and a solid understanding of criminal law and courtroom procedures. Familiarity with legal research databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis, as well as case management systems, is typically required. Outstanding oral advocacy, negotiation skills, and empathy for clients are crucial soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities ensure effective representation, uphold clients' rights, and maintain justice within the legal system.

What are some common challenges faced by an assistant deputy public defender, and how can new hires best prepare for them?

Assistant Deputy Public Defenders often handle high caseloads with limited resources, which can be challenging for those new to the role. Balancing multiple cases, meeting tight deadlines, and advocating for clients who may have complex legal and personal needs requires strong organizational and communication skills. New hires can prepare by developing time management habits, seeking mentorship from experienced colleagues, and staying updated on legal precedents and local court procedures. Collaboration with investigators, social workers, and other attorneys is key to building effective defense strategies and ensuring clients receive comprehensive representation.

What is the difference between Assistant Deputy Public Defender vs Public Defender?

AspectAssistant Deputy Public DefenderPublic Defender
CredentialsJuris Doctor (JD), State Bar licenseJuris Doctor (JD), State Bar license
Work EnvironmentAssists in courtroom, research, and case preparationLeads defense teams, manages cases, and makes court appearances
Employer & IndustryPublic defense offices, government agenciesPublic defense offices, government agencies
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, career path, responsibilitiesLeadership, case management, senior responsibilities

Assistant Deputy Public Defenders support public defenders by handling casework and courtroom duties, while Public Defenders oversee entire defense teams and manage complex cases. Both roles require legal credentials and work within government-funded legal services, but differ in seniority and scope of responsibilities.

What cities are hiring for Assistant Deputy Public Defender jobs?

Cities with the most Assistant Deputy Public Defender job openings:

What states have the most Assistant Deputy Public Defender jobs?

States with the most job openings for Assistant Deputy Public Defender jobs include:

Assistant Deputy Public Defender jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Deputy Public Defender job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

DEPUTY PUBLIC DEFENDER

Washoe County

Reno, NV • On-site

$116K - $249K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Position Information THE WASHOE COUNTY PUBLIC DEFENDER'S OFFICE is accepting applications for the position of Deputy Public Defender in the Criminal Division. Attorneys in the Criminal Division represent clients at all stages of criminal proceedings with an emphasis on holistic defense. Prior experience and demonstrated interests in criminal defense and/or serving vulnerable populations are preferred but not required.

The Public Defender's Office offers a comprehensive training program and a supportive team environment. The salary range starts at $112,694. Washoe County provides employer-paid contributions to PERS, health insurance, and a wide range of other competitive benefits.

Our office is located in Reno, NV at the base of the Sierra Nevada Mountains and less than one hour from beautiful Lake Tahoe A successful candidate must be fully admitted to the Nevada bar on or before the start date. Nevada does not have reciprocity with any other jurisdictions. The Washoe County Public Defender's Office offers competitive salary and benefits in the public service sector in Northern Nevada.

Salary for the entry level position starts at $112,694.40 annually. Minimum Qualifications EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING REQUIREMENTS Graduation from a recognized law school and some experience in the practice of law; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience. LICENSE OR CERTIFICATE Current membership in the Bar in the State of Nevada

A valid driver's license is required at the time of appointment. DEPUTY PUBLIC DEFENDER I Graduation from a recognized law school and some experience in the practice of law; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience. DEPUTY PUBLIC DEFENDER II Graduation from a recognized law school and one year of full-time experience in the practice of law equivalent to that of a Deputy Public Defender I in Washoe County; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience.

DEPUTY PUBLIC DEFENDER III Graduation from a recognized law school and two years of full-time experience in the practice of law equivalent to that of a Deputy Public Defender II in Washoe County; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience. DEPUTY PUBLIC DEFENDER IV Graduation from a recognized law school and two years of full-time experience in the practice of law equivalent to that of a Deputy Public Defender III in Washoe County; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience. Candidates must be licensed to practice law in the State of Nevada or eligible for immediate admission to the Nevada bar.

Training provided in a team-based atmosphere. Conditions of Employment This is a fulltime government position and salary range, depending on experience, is $112,694.40 - $241,529.60 and comes with excellent benefits including health insurance, paid vacation and sick leave, and employer-paid public employee retirement. For a full review of benefits visit https://www.washoecounty.us/humanresources/Benefits/index.php

Reference and background checks will be conducted on selected applicants. What Happens Next To apply, please submit a letter of interest and resume to Joseph Goodnight, Chief Deputy Public Defender, at jgoodnight@washoecounty.gov.

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