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Assistant Public Defender Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Navajo County, AZ

Deputy Public Defender

Holbrook, AZ · On-site

$100K - $107K/yr

Public Defender Opening Date: 04/03/2025 Closing Date: Continuous Summary Under general supervision ... Provide legal representation to indigent clients in the defense and resolution of cases. * Assist ...

Navajo County

Deputy Public Defender

Holbrook, AZ · On-site

$100K - $107K/yr

... cases Assist in the defense of cases, review legal documents and compile and analyze case facts ... public. Desirable Qualifications Juris Doctorate from an accredited law school and current ...

Federal Public Defender's Office

Interpreter

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$62K - $128K/yr

The interpreter supports the assistant federal public defenders in various aspects of trial preparation by interpreting/translating legal documents, correspondence, transcripts, treaties, foreign ...

Pimacounty

Paralegal - Public Defense Services

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$23.98 - $28.19/hr

Legal Defender; Mental Health Defender; Office of Children's Counsel; Public Defender, Public ... Associate's degree in paralegal, legal assistant, law, business, legal secretary, criminal justice ...

Maricopa

Accident Reconstructionist

Phoenix, AZ · Hybrid

$29.25 - $38.63/hr

Job Type Unclassified Department Public Defender About the Position We are seeking an experienced ... Proactively assist in reviewing vehicle accident, fatality, and DUI cases * Provide expertise in ...

Maricopa

Accident Reconstructionist

Phoenix, AZ · Hybrid

$29.25 - $38.63/hr

Job Type Unclassified Department Public Defender About the Position We are seeking an experienced ... Proactively assist in reviewing vehicle accident, fatality, and DUI cases * Provide expertise in ...

Maricopa County, AZ

Accident Reconstructionist

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$29.95 - $48/hr

Job Type Unclassified Department Public Defender About the Position We are seeking an experienced ... Proactively assist in reviewing vehicle accident, fatality, and DUI cases * Provide expertise in ...

Maricopa

Accident Reconstructionist

Phoenix, AZ · Hybrid

$29.25 - $38.63/hr

Job Type Unclassified Department Public Defender About the Position We are seeking an experienced ... Proactively assist in reviewing vehicle accident, fatality, and DUI cases * Provide expertise in ...

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All JobsPublic Defender JobsAssistant Public Defender JobsAssistant Public Defender Jobs in Arizona

Assistant Public Defender information

See Arizona salary details

$43.8K

$73.2K

$123K

How much do assistant public defender jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant public defender in Arizona is $73,234.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,600.00 and $80,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectAssistant Public DefenderPublic Defender
CredentialsJuris Doctor (JD), State Bar LicenseJuris Doctor (JD), State Bar License
Work EnvironmentSupports public defenders, handles cases under supervisionLeads defense teams, manages caseloads, makes legal decisions
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, public defense officesGovernment agencies, public defense offices
Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Assistant Public Defenders assist in defending clients in criminal cases under supervision, while Public Defenders lead the defense team, handle complex cases, and make strategic legal decisions. Both roles require a JD and state bar licensure, and they work within government public defense offices. The main difference lies in responsibility level and case management scope.

What are some common challenges faced by assistant public defenders, and how can new hires prepare for them?

Assistant Public Defenders often manage high caseloads and work with clients from diverse backgrounds who may have complex legal and personal needs. New hires should be prepared for fast-paced environments, tight deadlines, and emotionally charged situations. Developing strong organizational skills, practicing empathy, and seeking mentorship from senior defenders can help new attorneys navigate these challenges effectively. Additionally, collaborating closely with investigators, social workers, and other team members is key to building a strong defense and supporting clients holistically.

What does an assistant public defender do?

An Assistant Public Defender is a licensed attorney who represents individuals accused of crimes who cannot afford to hire a private lawyer. They provide legal counsel, defend clients in court, negotiate plea deals, and ensure their clients' constitutional rights are protected throughout the criminal justice process. Assistant Public Defenders often handle a high caseload and work on a wide variety of criminal cases, from minor offenses to serious felonies.

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

To thrive as an Assistant Public Defender, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, a state bar license, and a strong understanding of criminal law and courtroom procedures. Familiarity with legal research databases (like Westlaw or LexisNexis), case management software, and e-filing systems is typically required. Exceptional communication, negotiation, and advocacy skills, along with resilience and empathy, help you connect with clients and navigate high-pressure situations. These skills ensure effective representation of clients, uphold legal rights, and maintain integrity within the justice system.
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What job categories do people searching Assistant Public Defender jobs in Arizona look for? The top searched job categories for Assistant Public Defender jobs in Arizona are:
What cities in Arizona are hiring for Assistant Public Defender jobs? Cities in Arizona with the most Assistant Public Defender job openings:
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Assistant Public Defender jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Public Defender job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,234 per year, or $35.2 per hour.

Assistant Federal Public Defender

Federal Public Defender's Office

Tucson, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

THE FEDERAL PUBLIC DEFENDER is accepting applications for an assistant federal public defender to be stationed in Tucson. The federal defender organization operates under authority of the Criminal Justice Act, 18 U.S.C. 3006A, to provide defense services in federal criminal cases and related matters by appointment from the court. The organization has staffed offices in Phoenix, Tucson, Yuma, and Flagstaff.One or more positions may be filled with this announcement.

Requirements. An assistant federal public defender must be: (1) a graduate of an accredited law school; (2) admitted to practice in good standing before the highest court of a state; and (3) licensed to practice in the U.S. District Court by the time of entrance on duty; and (4) twoyears' experience in trial work or other related work, and a commitment to criminal defense. Spanish language fluency a plus but not required. The applicant must be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national or Lawful permanent resident (i.e., green card holder) who is seeking citizenship as outlined in 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3)(B). Appointment is subject to a satisfactory background investigation including an FBI name and fingerprint check and an IRS tax check.

Duties. The assistant federal public defender will represent clients charged with federal criminal offenses and clients involved in other matters covered under the Criminal Justice Act. The position requires travel for investigation, litigation, and training. Federal public defender attorneys may not engage in the private practice of law.

Selection Criteria. The successful applicant will have a clearly demonstrated aptitude for excellence in criminal defense practice, a commitment to the representation of indigent accused persons, and a reputation for personal integrity. Applicants must also possess the ability to communicate effectively with clients, witnesses, colleagues, staff, and court and agency personnel as part of their employment. Experience in handling federal criminal cases is preferred.

Salary and Benefits. The salary of an assistant federal public defender is commensurate with that of an assistant U.S. attorney with similar qualifications and experience. The position is in the excepted service and does not carry the tenure rights of the competitive Civil Service. The position does include regular Government employment benefits including health and life insurance, retirement, and the Thrift Savings Plan. Salary is payable only by Electronic Funds Transfer (direct deposit). All positions are at will and are subject to the availability of funds.

How to Apply.To be considered for the position, applicants need to upload a letter of interest, rsum, and a representative writing sample.

The Federal Public Defender is an equal-opportunity employer. All applicants, regardless of race, ethnicity, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, disability, or age, are encouraged to apply.


Equal Opportunity Employer. The Federal Public Defender for the District of Arizona is an equal opportunity employer. Individuals from groups underrepresented in national projects within the defender community are encouraged to apply.