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Chief Public Defender Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ingham County, MI

Assistant Public Defender

Lansing, MI · On-site

$79K - $125K/yr

TMSTER PD Description Under the direction of the Chief Public Defender, serves as attorney for indigent clients throughout the courts in Ingham County. Performs legal research using electronic and ...

Ingham County

Assistant Public Defender

Lansing, MI · On-site

$79K - $125K/yr

Description Under the direction of the Chief Public Defender, serves as attorney for indigent clients throughout the courts in Ingham County. Performs legal research using electronic and on line ...

County of Clarion

Assistant Public Defender

Clarion, PA · On-site

$60K - $66K/hr

SUPERVISION GIVEN None except in absence of Chief Public Defender or as delegated. WORKING CONDITIONS * Works in adequate workspace, lighting, and ventilation but subject to fluctuations in ...

County of Clarion

Assistant Public Defender

Clarion, PA · On-site

$60K - $66K/hr

SUPERVISION GIVEN None except in absence of Chief Public Defender or as delegated. WORKING CONDITIONS * Works in adequate workspace, lighting, and ventilation but subject to fluctuations in ...

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$33K

$124.4K

$200.5K

How much do chief public defender jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for chief public defender in the United States is $124,409.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,000.00 and $146,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Chief Public Defender, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chief Public Defender, you need deep expertise in criminal law, trial experience, and typically a Juris Doctor (JD) degree with bar admission in your state. Familiarity with case management systems, legal research tools like Westlaw or LexisNexis, and ongoing legal education certifications are essential. Outstanding leadership, communication, and advocacy skills help you effectively manage staff, represent clients, and build community trust. These skills ensure effective defense for clients, efficient office operations, and uphold justice and fairness in the legal system.

What are Chief Public Defenders?

Chief Public Defenders are senior attorneys who oversee public defender offices, ensuring that individuals who cannot afford private legal representation receive effective defense in criminal cases. They manage staff attorneys and support personnel, set office policies, and represent the office in interactions with courts and the public. Chief Public Defenders also handle administrative duties such as budgeting, training, and compliance with legal standards. Their role is crucial in upholding the right to counsel and ensuring fair treatment within the justice system.

What are some common challenges faced by a Chief Public Defender in managing their team and caseloads?

A Chief Public Defender often contends with high caseloads, limited resources, and the need to ensure quality representation for all clients. Balancing administrative duties with supervising attorneys and supporting staff can be challenging, particularly in jurisdictions with budget constraints. Additionally, Chiefs must foster a collaborative team environment, provide mentorship, and advocate for systemic changes while maintaining compliance with legal and ethical standards. Effective communication and leadership skills are essential for navigating these challenges and supporting both clients and staff.
More about Chief Public Defender jobs
What states have the most Chief Public Defender jobs? States with the most job openings for Chief Public Defender jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Chief Public Defender jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Chief Public Defender jobs are:
Chief Public Defender jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chief Public Defender job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 93% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $124,409 per year, or $59.8 per hour.

Assistant Public Defender - Misdemeanors

Burnet County

Burnet, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Salary: TBD

GENERAL DESCRIPTION
This position is an exempt position that requires the need for a valid Texas State Bar License in good standing. This position requires knowledge of Texas law, and provides a full range of legal services to indigent defendants in the assigned felony, misdemeanor or juvenile cases in the assigned county. Document processing, and/or record keeping, and preparation and presentation of legal cases in jury and bench trials are necessary to fulfill this position. Position assists in the daily operation of the Public Defenders Office.


ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES
1 Represents indigent clients in court as assigned in Burnet County in felony, misdemeanor and juvenile cases.
2 Evaluates, investigates and offers legal advice in assigned cases, providing analysis of pending charges and defenses.
3 Represents indigent clients in plea offers and negotiations, jury trials, trials before the court, contested matters before the court and dismissals.
4 Interviews clients and potential witnesses and discusses the facts and applicable law with clients.
5 Conducts legal research, drafts legal documents and interprets laws, rules and regulations.
6 Reviews evidence, inspects crime scenes and prepares investigative requests.
7 Documents client files, prepares trial notebooks and maintains statistical information regarding caseload and dispositions.
8 Direct other office personnel and assist other public defenders as needed.
9 Ensures the Chief Public Defender is kept apprised on all matters to assure timely and efficient operations.
10 Regular attendance is required.
ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES
Asst Public Defender
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1 Performs all other related duties involved in the operation of the office as assigned by the Chief Public Defender and necessary to support the BCPDO.
2 Cross-train the office personnel and other public defenders on procedures to follow on cases, behavior in a courtroom setting, and in preparation of legal documents.
3 Coordinates the flow of information between the BCPDO and other departments and/or outside agencies.
EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
Graduation from an accredited law school with a license, in good standing, to practice law in the State of Texas.
EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS
One (1) year experience practicing law required.
Requires knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition and grammar. Must also have the ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing. Must have the ability to speak English clearly to be understood by others.
Must have a high level of critical thinking and problem solving skills along with excellent communication, organizational and planning skills.
Must have the ability to meet and serve a diverse group of individuals in a friendly and efficient manner.
Must have and maintain the ability to perform in an environment of rapid change, working under pressure and meeting deadlines.
Must possess and maintain a valid Texas Drivers License at all times.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT
Ability to sit for prolonged periods while using desktop computer, laptop computer, telephone, adding machine and other common office machines in a standard office environment. Must be able to lift up to 10 pounds occasionally. Frequently required to talk, hear, see, sit, stand, use hands and arms to carry and reach. Occasionally may need to stoop or crouch.
SPECIAL CONDITIONS
This position determines how to prioritize work so that it is accomplished in a timely and professional manner. Incumbent proofs work to determine if revisions are required. Determines how to handle hostile clients and/or public members. Decisions regarding personnel issues and policy questions are to be referred to the Chief Public Defender.