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Assistant Public Defender Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

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Assistant Public Defender information

See Minnesota salary details

$46K

$77K

$129.3K

How much do assistant public defender jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant public defender in Minnesota is $76,969.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,700.00 and $84,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 popular job titles related to Assistant Public Defender jobs in Minnesota?

For Assistant Public Defender jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Assistant Public Defender jobs in Minnesota look for?

The top searched job categories for Assistant Public Defender jobs in Minnesota are:

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Assistant Public Defender jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Assistant Public Defender job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Assistant Public Defender jobs in MN?

For Assistant Public Defender jobs in MN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Assistant Public Defender jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Public Defender job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $76,969 per year, or $37 per hour.

Assistant Public Defender

State of Minnesota Board of Public Defense

Minneapolis, MN

$88K - $158K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Application Requirements ATTACH COVER LETTER AND RESUME The mission of the Trial Team (TT) is to improve the quality of representation in major cases through representation, advice, consultation, brainstorming, co-counsel, impact litigation and training. Definition/Summary of Duties The team is a statewide resource available to all Judicial District Public Defender Offices, with special emphasis on complicated cases in the multi-county Districts. Case priorities of the TT include: Cases with Forensic Issues: includes DNA, arson, mental illness, etc.

Child Deaths and other medical examiner cases Criminal Sexual Conduct Cases (particularly where children are involved) White Collar Crime Statewide issue development (ie. DANCO, Source Code, McNeely) Cases with potential constitutional issues. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Good knowledge of criminal law and procedure; Good knowledge of the principles, methods and practices of legal research and investigation; Good knowledge of judicial procedures and the Rules of Evidence Good knowledge of the pleading and practice of effective presentation of court cases.

Good skills in conducting legal research and analysis of data Good skills in determining proper courses of action and presentation of facts and arguments. Ability to analyze legal documents and instruments Ability to appraise and organize facts to present evidence and other material in written or oral form Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with prosecutors, judges, referees, and other professionals, as well as clients and the general public. An understanding of the scientific method; a demonstrated interested in and experience with handling forensic science issues in court; contacts in the forensic science community to access as a resource in evaluating cases.

Education and Experience Required Qualifications: Graduation from an accredited college of law and admission to the Bar of the State of Minnesota or the ability to become admitted to the Bar of the State of Minnesota; Five or more years of experience litigating cases; trial experience; a demonstrated history of handling cases involving forensic science; experience investigating and litigating forensic science issues. Confidentiality Statement: Employees of the Board of Public Defense may not reveal information relating to the representation of a client without approval of the attorney of record. This position requires a lot of travel, no requirement as to where the TT Attorney lives and a long-term commitment.

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