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Assistant Public Defender Jobs in Forsyth, GA (NOW HIRING)

Georgia

Attorney 3

Griffin, GA

The Assistant Public Defender III will provide competent and zealous representation and advocacy to indigent clients. This position performs mid-level professional legal work and may assist in cases ...

Georgia

Attorney 4

Griffin, GA

This Assistant Public Defender will be responsible for preparing and presenting cases and entering pleas, conducting legal research, preparing and presenting complex documents, pleading compilation ...

Georgia

Attorney 3

Macon, GA

The Macon Judicial Circuit Public Defender's Office is looking to hire an Assistant Public Defender 3. Primary duties include representing indigent clients with criminal case(s) in Superior Court.

Georgia

Attorney 3

Macon, GA · On-site

The Macon Judicial Circuit Public Defender's Office is looking to hire an Assistant Public Defender 3. Primary duties include representing indigent clients with criminal case(s) in Superior Court.

Georgia

Paralegal 1

Gray, GA · On-site

Georgia Public Defender Council Job Requisition ID: JR0000002432 Shift: Day (United States of ... High school diploma/GED and one (1) year of experience as a legal assistant in a legal environment ...

All JobsPublic Defender JobsAssistant Public Defender JobsAssistant Public Defender Jobs in Forsyth, GA

Assistant Public Defender information

See Forsyth, GA salary details

$40.9K

$68.4K

$115K

How much do assistant public defender jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant public defender in Forsyth, GA is $68,438.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,700.00 and $74,900.00 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 cities near Forsyth, GA are hiring for Assistant Public Defender jobs?

Cities near Forsyth, GA with the most Assistant Public Defender job openings:

Assistant Public Defender jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Public Defender job openings in Forsyth, GA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,438 per year, or $32.9 per hour.

Attorney 3

Georgia

Griffin, GA

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Explore a World of Opportunity with the State of Georgia!

We are the force that drives Georgia!
Georgia State Government is a large enterprise, composed of various agencies and entities with a common goal to improve the lives of Georgia's more than 10 million citizens!
Join Team Georgia and impact lives everyday while receiving a robust benefits package designed for every stage of your career!

Job Title:

Attorney 3

Job Requisition ID:

JR0000001471

Number of Openings:

1

Shift:

Day (United States of America)

Compensation Details:

$90,000.00

Job Description:

The Griffin Judicial Circuit Public Defender's Office is looking to hire an Assistant Public Defender III in Spalding County. Primary duties include representing indigent individuals in all phases of criminal proceedings in the Superior Court. Applicants must meet the qualifications and have the necessary skills to perform the job duties and responsibilities for the position.The candidate selected must display dedication to indigent defense. Applicants must be a current member in good standing with the State Bar of Georgia.Trial experience is preferred.

Interested applicants should apply onhttps://careers.georgia.gov/and send a cover letter and resume to William Imhoff at wimhoff@gapublicdefender.org.

Description of Duties: The Assistant Public Defender III will provide competent and zealous representation and advocacy to indigent clients. This position performs mid-level professional legal work and may assist in cases of routine complexity. In addition, the Assistant Public Defender III may serve as lead or supporting counsel on serious, high-profile, and significant felony cases, requiring advanced legal knowledge and strong advocacy skills. To be considered for this position, candidates must possess a Juris Doctorate from an accredited college or university and a license to practice law in the State of Georgia. Performs other related duties as required.

Minimum Qualifications:

Juris Doctorate from an accredited college or university and license to practice law in the State of Georgia or eligibility to sit for the next Georgia Bar examination followed by Georgia Bar exam passage and licensure to practice law in the State of Georgia within one (1) year of hiring or reciprocity and two (2) years of relevant legal -experience; or two (2) years of experience required at the lower-level Attorney 2 (LEP021).

Equal Employment Opportunity Employer

The State of Georgia does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, or other protected categories in employment or the provision of services.
Qualified applicants may request reasonable accommodation when needed during the application and/or screening process by contacting the appropriate agency Human Resources department.

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