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Assistant Public Defender Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Legal Assistant

Wausau, WI ยท On-site

$50K/yr

Non-exemptORGANIZATION OVERVIEWThe ACLU is the nation's foremost defender of civil liberties and ... Assist with drafting legal letters, FOIA and Public Information Act requests, and other ...

New

Public Safety Officer

Milwaukee, WI ยท On-site

$45K - $60K/yr

Liaise with law enforcement to assist in apprehension of suspects. * Collaborate with the Manager of Safety and Security and Public Safety Supervisor's to identify trends as well as suspects and how ...

Showing results 21-40

Assistant Public Defender information

See Wisconsin salary details

$47.4K

$79.3K

$133.2K

How much do assistant public defender jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant public defender in Wisconsin is $79,322.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,600.00 and $86,800.00 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 cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Assistant Public Defender jobs? Cities in Wisconsin with the most Assistant Public Defender job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Assistant Public Defender jobs in WI? For Assistant Public Defender jobs in WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Assistant Public Defender job openings in Wisconsin 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 $79,322 per year, or $38.1 per hour.

$50K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Legal AssistantJob DescriptionDepartment: LegalEmployment Type: Full-timeLocation: HoustonSupervisory: NoUnion position: YesPay Class: Non-exemptORGANIZATION OVERVIEWThe ACLU is the nation's foremost defender of civil liberties and civil rights, dedicated to defending the Bill of Rights and advocating for marginalized communities through litigation, legislation, and public education. The ACLU of Texas, founded in 1938 and headquartered in Houston, is one of the largest ACLU affiliates in the nation. The ACLU of Texas has regional offices in Austin, Brownsville, Dallas, and El Paso.Whether it's protecting the rights of immigrants, ending mass incarceration, achieving full equality for the LGBT community, or preserving the right to vote and reproductive rights, the ACLU takes up the toughest civil rights and liberties cases to defend all people from government abuse and overreach.ROLE OVERVIEWThe ACLU of Texas seeks a full-time legal assistant to provide strategic support and coordination for the Legal Department. They will assist in the identification, research,investigation, and response to civil liberties and civil rights violations. Additionally, they will help manage legal filings and administrative support for the Department. This position requires a self-directed, highly organized person with energy, initiative, and enthusiasmResponsibilities and Expectations Include:Assist in case management, including maintenance of client relationships, court records and electronic files.Anticipate and identify litigation tasks in case management including but not limited to calendaring and case files.Conduct factual investigations related to potential civil rights violations, including handling on-site interviews and witness development.Assist with discovery, including preparing discovery requests and responses, as appropriate.Assist with drafting legal letters, FOIA and Public Information Act requests, and other correspondence, as appropriate, and managing responses.Perform general administrative work, including preparing documents for filing in court, assisting with finalizing motions, cite-checking, proof reading, and using PACER and Westlaw.Oversee management of intake process, including coordinating weekly intake review and data entry.Lead recruitment for intake interns and manage intake internship program.Prepare reports including but not limited to metrics and maintain docketCommitment to civil rights and civil liberties.Demonstrated ability to prioritize and handle a variety of tasks and meet established deadlines.Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint.Strong internet research skills.Well organized, efficient, and highly motivated.Excellent interpersonal and communications skills and ability to work in a fast-pacedworkplace, including working nights and weekends when necessary.Knowledge of diverse groups, experience working with a multicultural workforce.Sensitivity and appreciation of cultural differences is required.Bachelor's degree required.Spanish speaking and writing proficiency preferred.Willingness and ability to travel.Houston based location is preferred but not required.Bilingual is preferred but not required.Compensation:Starting salary is $50,000/year in alignment with parameters of ACLU of Texas's salary scale. Excellent benefits include a generous paid time off policy; medical, dental and vision insurance; 401(k) plan with an employer match; life and long-term disability insurance, and generous paid holidays.This job description provides a general but not comprehensive list of the essential responsibilities and qualifications required. It does not represent a contract of employment. The ACLU of Texas reserves the right to change the job description and/or posting at any time without advance notice.The ACLU of Texas is an equal opportunity employer. We value a diverse workforce and an inclusive culture. The ACLU of Texas encourages applications from all qualified individuals without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, marital status, citizenship, disability, or veteran statusThe ACLU of Texas undertakes affirmative action strategies in its recruitment and employment efforts to assure that persons with disabilities have full opportunities for employment in all positions #J-18808-Ljbffr