ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Assistant Public Defender Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Champaign County

Assistant Public Defender

Urbana, IL · On-site

$54K - $94K/yr

Champaign County/Assistant Public Defender (Public Defender) Date Posted: 3/3/2026 Location: 101 E. Main Street (Courthouse) Date Available: 04/05/2026 Closing Date: Until Filled Job Title: Assistant ...

State of Georgia

Assistant Public Defender III

Cordele, GA · On-site

$54K - $72K/yr

Cordele Judicial Circuit - Assistant Public Defender (Grant Funded) The Cordele Judicial Circuit Public Defender's Office is seeking to hire client-focused attorney for grant funded Assistant Public ...

State of Georgia

Assistant Public Defender I

Adel, GA · On-site

$53K - $71K/yr

Alapaha Judicial Circuit- Assistant Public Defender I The Alapaha Circuit Public Defender's Office is seeking to hire an Assistant Public Defender I. The position will be based in Adel, Cook County ...

Allegany County

1st Assistant Public Defender

Belmont, NY · On-site

$71K - $102K/yr

1st ASSISTANT PUBLIC DEFENDER Allegany County is seeking qualified candidates for the position of 1st Assistant Public Defender. The candidates must be a permanent resident of Allegany County at the ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsAssistant Public Defender Jobs

Assistant Public Defender information

See salary details

$47K

$78.6K

$132K

How much do assistant public defender jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant public defender in the United States is $78,587.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,000.00 and $86,000.00 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, 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.
More about Assistant Public Defender jobs
What cities are hiring for Assistant Public Defender jobs? Cities with the most Assistant Public Defender job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Public Defender jobs? The most popular types of Public Defender jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Assistant Public Defender jobs? The top employers for Assistant Public Defender jobs are:
What states have the most Assistant Public Defender jobs? States with the most job openings for Assistant Public Defender jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Assistant Public Defender jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Assistant Public Defender jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Assistant Public Defender jobs? For Assistant Public Defender jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Assistant Public Defender jobs near you

Assistant Public Defender

Champaign County

Urbana, IL • On-site

$54K - $94K/yr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Position Type:
Champaign County/Assistant Public Defender (Public Defender)
Date Posted:
3/3/2026
Location:
101 E. Main Street (Courthouse)
Date Available:
04/05/2026
Closing Date:
Until Filled
Job Title: Assistant Public Defender (Full-Time, Exempt)
Department: Public Defender's Office
Reports To: Public Defender
Start Date: April 5, 2026
SUMMARY
Provides legal counsel and court representation to defendants who cannot afford legal counsel and who have been charged with jailable offenses and certain civil defendants.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Includes but not limited to as other duties may be assigned.
  • Provides competent representation to indigent defendants.
  • Meets with clients.
  • Conducts plea negotiations and jury trials.
  • Performs as trial counsel by representing defendants during courtroom proceedings.
  • Analyzes strength of case, understanding of the possible sentences; and at the client's wishes, meets with prosecutor to resolve the matter prior to trial.

QUALIFICATIONS
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
Education and/or Experience
  • Law degree.
  • Minimum of 3 years of post-law school practice.
  • Able to perform legal research and have exposure to the preparation and trial of cases.

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations
  • Must be currently licensed to practice in the State of Illinois.

Language Skills
  • Ability to read, analyze, and interpret legal documents and interpretations.
  • Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals.
  • Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from judges, attorneys and the general public.

COMPENSATION
  • Salary Range: $54,990 - $94,633 depending on qualifications.
  • The County offers a competitive benefits package, which is outlined at https:/www.co.champaign.il.us/jobs, including membership in the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF), optional 457 deferred compensation plans, and a comprehensive health insurance plan.
  • The office provides on-site and ongoing training, encouraging a work-life balance.

HOW TO APPLY
  • Apply on the Champaign County website.
  • Submit a cover letter and resume to Elisabeth Pollock, Champaign County Public Defender, 101 E. Main, Urbana, IL 61801, or via email to epollock@champaigncountyil.gov.

EEO / AA / ADA

Apply