ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Assistant Public Defender Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

State of Colorado

Administrative Assistant

Arapahoe, CO · On-site

$3.6K/mo

Office of the State Public Defender Opening Date: 07/22/2026 Closing Date: 7/29/2026 11:59 PM ... We are recruiting to fill an Administrative Assistant position Colorado State Public Defender ...

State of Colorado

CO

$3.6K/mo

Colorado's Office of the State Public Defender (OSPD) maintains a reputation as one of the top ... We are recruiting to fill an Administrative Assistant position Colorado State Public Defender ...

State of Colorado

CO · On-site

$3.6K/mo

Colorado's Office of the State Public Defender (OSPD) maintains a reputation as one of the top ... We are recruiting to fill an Administrative Assistant position Colorado State Public Defender ...

State of Colorado

Paralegal

Grand Junction, CO · On-site

$4.7K/mo

Office of the State Public Defender Opening Date: 07/16/2026 Closing Date: 7/30/2026 11:59 PM ... May assist attorneys in identifying potential conflicts of interest. * Searches case-related ...

State of Colorado

Paralegal

Grand Junction, CO

$4.7K/mo

Colorado's Office of the State Public Defender (OSPD) maintains a reputation as one of the top ... May assist attorneys in identifying potential conflicts of interest. Searches case-related ...

State of Colorado

Paralegal

Grand Junction, CO · On-site

$4.7K/mo

Colorado's Office of the State Public Defender (OSPD) maintains a reputation as one of the top ... May assist attorneys in identifying potential conflicts of interest. Searches case-related ...

State of Colorado

Paralegal

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$4.7K/mo

Colorado's Office of the State Public Defender (OSPD) maintains a reputation as one of the top ... May assist attorneys in identifying potential conflicts of interest. Searches case-related ...

Peakstone Law Group

Criminal Paralegal

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$20.67 - $26.44/hr

... * Assist with other legal and administrative duties as reasonably assigned. Required Qualifications * One to three years of experience in a law firm, public defender's office, or comparable legal ...

Peakstone Law Group

Criminal Paralegal

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$20.67 - $26.44/hr

... * Assist with other legal and administrative duties as reasonably assigned. Required Qualifications * One to three years of experience in a law firm, public defender's office, or comparable legal ...

Peakstone Law Group

Criminal Paralegal

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$20.67 - $26.44/hr

... * Assist with other legal and administrative duties as reasonably assigned. Required Qualifications * One to three years of experience in a law firm, public defender's office, or comparable legal ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPublic Defender JobsAssistant Public Defender JobsAssistant Public Defender Jobs in Colorado

Assistant Public Defender information

See Colorado salary details

$49.4K

$82.6K

$138.8K

How much do assistant public defender jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant public defender in Colorado is $82,636.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,300.00 and $90,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an assistant Public Defender?

An Assistant Public Defender is a legal professional who works for the government to provide defense services to individuals accused of crimes who cannot afford private attorneys. They handle case preparation, court appearances, and legal research, often working under the supervision of a Public Defender or senior attorney. This role typically requires a law degree and passing the bar exam, with strong skills in courtroom advocacy and legal analysis.

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.

How much are public defenders paid per hour?

Public defenders are typically salaried employees, but their hourly rate can be estimated based on annual salaries, which generally range from $50,000 to $80,000. When broken down, this equates to approximately $24 to $38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and workload. Some public defenders may work overtime or have additional benefits that affect overall compensation.

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.

Is being a DA a stressful job?

As an Assistant Public Defender, the job can be stressful due to high caseloads, the emotional nature of criminal cases, and the need for thorough legal work under tight deadlines. The role often requires strong time management skills and resilience to handle the pressures of representing clients in complex legal environments.

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.

How hard is it to get hired as a Public Defender?

Getting hired as an Assistant Public Defender typically requires a law degree, passing the state bar exam, and relevant legal experience, often including internships or clerkships. Competition can be high due to the job's stability and public service nature, and strong advocacy, research, and writing skills are essential for success in the hiring process.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Assistant Public Defender, and why are they important?

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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Public Defender jobs in Colorado? The most popular types of Public Defender jobs in Colorado are:
What are popular job titles related to Assistant Public Defender jobs in Colorado? For Assistant Public Defender jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Assistant Public Defender jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Assistant Public Defender jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Assistant Public Defender jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Assistant Public Defender job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Assistant Public Defender jobs in CO? For Assistant Public Defender jobs in CO, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Assistant Public Defender jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Public Defender job openings in Colorado as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,636 per year, or $39.7 per hour.

Administrative Assistant

State of Colorado

Arapahoe, CO • On-site

$3.6K/mo

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

State Of Colorado rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 93 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

39th of 50 rated states

Job description

Salary: $3,685.00 Monthly
Location : Arapahoe County, CO
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: JCA-072226-AAARP
Department: Office of the State Public Defender
Opening Date: 07/22/2026
Closing Date: 7/29/2026 11:59 PM Mountain
FLSA: Determined by Position
Primary Physical Work Address: 13356 E Briarwood Ave, Centennial, CO, 80112, United States
Department Contact Information: https://secure7.saashr.com/ta/6145154.careers?ShowJob=621219804
Type of Announcement: This announcement is not governed by the selection processes of the classified personnel system. Applications will be considered from residents and non-residents of Colorado.
How To Apply: Online applications through the Colorado Jobs portal will not be accepted. Please follow instructions on the job announcement for submitting an application.
Department Information
About the Colorado State Public Defender:
Colorado's Office of the State Public Defender (OSPD) maintains a reputation as one of the top organizations in the nation specializing in the delivery of indigent criminal defense. We operate as an independent agency within the Judicial Branch of Colorado State Government with nearly 1,000 dedicated employees assigned to twenty-one Regional Trial Offices, a centralized Appellate Division, and a centralized Administrative Office. The mission of OSPD is to defend and protect the rights, liberties and dignity of those accused of crimes who cannot afford to retain counsel. We do so by providing constitutionally and statutorily mandated representation that is effective, zealous, inspired and compassionate. We seek to hire professionals who are dedicated to furthering our mission and demonstrate compassion in their service to our clients. We are a fast paced, team-oriented environment, where self-motivation and a personal commitment to high performance are important attributes for success.
Benefits of Working for the OSPD:
  • Medical Insurance
  • Basic Vision Insurance - included with medical plans
  • Dental Insurance
  • State Paid Life Insurance
  • State Paid Short-Term Disability
  • FSA - Healthcare and Dependent Care
  • HSA Plan with Employer Contribution
  • Generous Paid Time Off & Sick Leave
  • Flexible Schedules
  • 11 paid holidays
  • Access to Mental Health and Well-Being Resources
  • Colorado PERA
  • 401(k) and 457 Supplemental Retirement Plans

For more information on benefits please visit https://dhr.colorado.gov/state-employees/state-of-colorado-employee-benefits. For additional information on PERA visit www.copera.org.
Additional information about the Office of the Colorado State Public Defender can be found at:
Position Purpose and Objectives/Definition of Work:
We are recruiting to fill an Administrative Assistant position Colorado State Public Defender's regional trial offices This is a full-time, entry-level Administrative Assistant position responsible for performing routine clerical and receptionist duties of a legal nature following established office procedures. Tasks are performed under direct guidance of an Office Manager or Supervisor while learning office and court procedures and case file management systems. Individuals must have strong interpersonal skills in order to successfully work with colleagues and court staff and to provide patient and compassionate service to indigent persons charged with criminal offenses. The work environment is fast-paced and has a high volume of telephone calls, client interactions and various interruptions. Individuals require the ability to multitask and perform tasks in a timely manner with accuracy and attention to detail.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Performs general reception duties including answering phones with multiple lines. Screens calls, takes messages and refers callers to the appropriate person, office or agency. Greets and assists onsite visitors such as, clients, coworkers, and other agency personnel. Provides general information such as, name of appointed attorney and scheduled court dates. Maintains the reception area.
  • Checks the main voice mail and email inbox for the office frequently during scheduled work hours. Responds to, or forwards voice and emails to appropriate person, office or agency.
  • Assists persons applying for representation by a public defender. This includes explaining the application process and ensuring the person is able to submit completed documents. Reviews applications and verifies for completeness in accordance with eligibility guidelines. Processes applications in accordance with State and Regional Office policies.
  • Opens, enters data and updates, and may close client files in the online case management system. Moves hardcopy files to/from the closed file room in accordance with policy and procedure.
  • Uses court or local jurisdiction internet sites to search client case information.
  • Processes incoming and outgoing mail and performs routine clerical tasks such as, copying, printing, sorting, and distributing forms and documents.
  • Makes weekly courthouse runs to pick-up digital and hardcopy discovery files when e-filing is not available.
  • Uploads large volumes of electronic documents, files and media into the online case management database. Scans and uploads hardcopy documents.
  • Attends meetings and trainings as required.
  • Performs other administrative duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications, Substitutions, Conditions of Employment & Appeal Rights
FOR A FULL DESCRIPTION AND TO APPLY VISIT:
Supplemental Information
FOR A FULL DESCRIPTION AND TO APPLY VISIT:
Please note that each agency's contact information is different; therefore, we encourage all applicants to view the full, official job announcement which includes contact information and class title. Select the job you wish to view, then click on the "Print" icon.

What State Of Colorado employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply