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Assistant Public Defender Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Aprio

Lead Engineer (Azure)

Portland, OR · On-site +1

$98K - $132K/yr

Work with a Top 20 CPA and advisory firm that Accounts for Anything. Aprio has 40 U.S. office ... Defender XDR suite, Sentinel, threat hunting * Data Protection : Purview, DLP, Sensitivity Labels ...

Center for Food Safety

Associate Attorney

Portland, OR · On-site

$85K - $98K/yr

Promote and educate the public and media on various CFS issues * Assist with hiring and supervision of law clerks Desired qualifications and skills * Law school graduate with 1-3 years of legal ...

All JobsPublic Defender JobsAssistant Public Defender JobsAssistant Public Defender Jobs in Portland, OR

Assistant Public Defender information

See Portland, OR salary details

$49.8K

$83.3K

$140K

How much do assistant public defender jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant public defender in Portland, OR is $83,342.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,900.00 and $91,200.00 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Public Defender jobs in Portland, OR? The most popular types of Public Defender jobs in Portland, OR are:
What are popular job titles related to Assistant Public Defender jobs in Portland, OR? For Assistant Public Defender jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Assistant Public Defender jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Assistant Public Defender jobs in Portland, OR are:
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Assistant Public Defender jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Assistant Public Defender job openings:
Assistant Public Defender jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Public Defender job openings in Portland, OR 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 $83,342 per year, or $40.1 per hour.

Legal Assistant II

Metropolitan Public Defender Service Inc

Portland, OR • On-site

$21.92 - $33.64/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

New

Job description


MPD has been on the cutting edge of public defense since our inception in 1971. Formed as a non-profit law firm, MPD contracts with the State of Oregon for public defense services. MPD was the first public defender organization under this system. MPD is the largest single provider of trial level public defense services in the state of Oregon, with offices in both Multnomah and Washington counties.


Join our dynamic team and a part of MPD’s commitment to being a leader in public defense which includes not just excellence in client representation but a strong commitment to hiring and developing a professional staff of defenders. For more information on MPD and our work visit:www.mpdlaw.com

MPD is currently searching for a Legal Assistant II to join our Multnomah County Office. The Legal Assistant position is an integral part of the defense team, providing administrative support to attorneys and maintaining regular contact with clients and their families. They are responsible for processing and organizing case material (including evidence, reports, and other records) and serve as liaison between maintaining accurate records and serve as a liaison between clients, attorneys, client families, and elements of the criminal justice system. As appropriate, they may assess client needs and support the coordination of necessary services with other members of the holistic defense team. Ideal candidate will have a strong work ethic, clear oral and written communication skills, the ability to multi-task, and a commitment to indigent defense excellence. The Legal Assistant II receives general supervision from the Chief Legal Assistant.


This position pays $21.92/hr - $33.64/hr. Staff are members of a union. This is a full-time, in-office, non-exempt position.


In addition to compensation, MPD also offers:

  • Medical (choice of PPO or HDHP), Dental and Vision
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Basic Life, STD, LTD and AD&D – 100% employer paid
  • 401(K) – MPD will contribute 6% of your annual salary with full vesting after the completion of 5 years of service
  • PTO – 24 hours upon hire and accrues monthly to 80 hours, increasing to 120 hours starting at 24 months
  • 10 paid holidays + 2 Personal Equity Days
  • 4 Mental Health Days per year
  • Sick Leave – 48 hours upon hire + accrues monthly after the completion of six months of employment

Position Qualifications

  • High school diploma or GED
  • Education or experience working in the legal or social service field.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Excellent organizational and time management skills and attention to detail, with a proven ability to meet deadlines
  • Ability to travel to and work within criminal justice system facilities

Position Preferences

  • Ability to lead by example in the handling of work assignments, as well as in the treatment of staff and others in the criminal justice system.
  • Ability to testify in court without impeachment (may preclude employees and applicants convicted of certain crimes within the prior 15 years).
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality of agency records.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Fluent in Spanish highly preferred.

Work Environment:

  • MPD fosters a work environment that is friendly, cooperative, and respectful.
  • Work is generally sedentary, in an office setting, courthouse, or jail facility.
  • There are frequent requirements for some physical activity such as carrying boxes of records weighing up to 10 pounds, stooping to extract records from files, or carrying and setting up display easels in court.

Work Environment:

  • Submit a current resume and cover letter on why you are interested in the position and/or in supporting public defense work at MPD
  • Internal applicants should apply via the Career Center on ADP
  • Posting will close on or before August 21, 2026

Diversity and Inclusion: At MPD, we do not just accept difference; we value it and support it to create a culture of dignity and respect for all our staff.


MPD is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, military status, national origin or any other characteristic protected under federal, state, or applicable local law.


Accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act: We gladly provide reasonable accommodation to anyone whose specific disability prevents them from completing an application or participating in this recruitment process. Please contact Human Resources in advance to request assistance.