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County Public Defender Jobs in Reno, NV (NOW HIRING)

Washoe County

DEPUTY PUBLIC DEFENDER

Reno, NV

$112K - $241K/yr

Position Information THE WASHOE COUNTY PUBLIC DEFENDER'S OFFICE is accepting applications for the position of Deputy Public Defender in the Criminal Division. Attorneys in the Criminal Division ...

Washoe County

DEPUTY ALTERNATE PUBLIC DEFENDER

Reno, NV

$112K - $146K/yr

Position Information THE WASHOE COUNTY ALTERNATE PUBLIC DEFENDER'S OFFICE is accepting applications for the position of Deputy Alternate Public Defender in the Criminal Division. The Alternate Public ...

Washoe County, NV

DEPUTY PUBLIC DEFENDER

Reno, NV · On-site

$112K - $241K/yr

Washoe County provides employer-paid contributions to PERS, health insurance, and a wide range of other competitive benefits. Our office is located in Reno, NV at the base of the Sierra Nevada ...

All JobsCounty Public Defender JobsCounty Public Defender Jobs in Reno, NV

County Public Defender information

See Reno, NV salary details

$27.9K

$107.2K

$184K

How much do county public defender jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for county public defender in Reno, NV is $107,218.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,300.00 and $133,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between County Public Defender vs County Assistant Public Defender?

AspectCounty Public DefenderCounty Assistant Public Defender
CredentialsJurisdiction-specific law license, relevant legal experienceSame as Public Defender, often with less experience
Work EnvironmentHandles complex cases, manages caseloads, supervises staffAssists Public Defender, handles assigned cases, supports team
Employer & IndustryCounty government, criminal defenseCounty government, criminal defense

The County Public Defender is the lead attorney responsible for managing the public defense office and handling complex cases, while the County Assistant Public Defender supports the Public Defender, manages assigned cases, and assists in case preparation. Both roles require similar credentials and work within the same government and industry environment, but differ in responsibilities and seniority.

What does a county public defender do?

A County Public Defender is a lawyer appointed by the court to represent individuals who cannot afford to hire a private attorney in criminal cases. Their primary responsibility is to ensure that defendants receive fair legal representation and that their rights are protected throughout the criminal justice process. Public defenders handle a range of cases, from misdemeanors to serious felonies, and may also assist with appeals and juvenile matters. They work within the local county jurisdiction and often manage large caseloads, advocating for their clients in court and negotiating with prosecutors.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a county public defender?

To thrive as a County Public Defender, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, state bar admission, and strong legal research, litigation, and criminal defense skills. Familiarity with case management software, legal research databases, and courtroom technology is typically required. Excellent communication, negotiation, and empathy are critical soft skills for effectively representing clients and managing high caseloads. These skills and qualities ensure effective advocacy, uphold clients' rights, and maintain justice within the legal system.

What are some typical challenges faced by county public defenders in balancing caseloads and providing effective representation?

County Public Defenders often manage high caseloads, which can make it challenging to devote sufficient time to each client. Balancing the demands of court appearances, case preparation, and client communication requires strong organizational skills and resilience. Despite these challenges, public defenders play a crucial role in ensuring fair legal representation for all, often working closely with investigators, social workers, and other attorneys. Supportive team environments and ongoing training can help public defenders navigate these demands and continue to grow professionally.
What are popular job titles related to County Public Defender jobs in Reno, NV? For County Public Defender jobs in Reno, NV, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching County Public Defender jobs in Reno, NV look for? The top searched job categories for County Public Defender jobs in Reno, NV are:
What cities near Reno, NV are hiring for County Public Defender jobs? Cities near Reno, NV with the most County Public Defender job openings:
County Public Defender jobs near you

DEPUTY PUBLIC DEFENDER

Washoe County

Reno, NV

$112K - $241K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Position Information THE WASHOE COUNTY PUBLIC DEFENDER'S OFFICE is accepting applications for the position of Deputy Public Defender in the Criminal Division. Attorneys in the Criminal Division represent clients at all stages of criminal proceedings with an emphasis on holistic defense. Prior experience and demonstrated interests in criminal defense and/or serving vulnerable populations are preferred but not required.

The Public Defender's Office offers a comprehensive training program and a supportive team environment. The salary range starts at $112,694. Washoe County provides employer-paid contributions to PERS, health insurance, and a wide range of other competitive benefits.

Our office is located in Reno, NV at the base of the Sierra Nevada Mountains and less than one hour from beautiful Lake Tahoe A successful candidate must be fully admitted to the Nevada bar on or before the start date. Nevada does not have reciprocity with any other jurisdictions. The Washoe County Public Defender's Office offers competitive salary and benefits in the public service sector in Northern Nevada.

Salary for the entry level position starts at $112,694.40 annually. Minimum Qualifications EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING REQUIREMENTS Graduation from a recognized law school and some experience in the practice of law; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience. LICENSE OR CERTIFICATE Current membership in the Bar in the State of Nevada

A valid driver's license is required at the time of appointment. DEPUTY PUBLIC DEFENDER I Graduation from a recognized law school and some experience in the practice of law; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience. DEPUTY PUBLIC DEFENDER II Graduation from a recognized law school and one year of full-time experience in the practice of law equivalent to that of a Deputy Public Defender I in Washoe County; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience.

DEPUTY PUBLIC DEFENDER III Graduation from a recognized law school and two years of full-time experience in the practice of law equivalent to that of a Deputy Public Defender II in Washoe County; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience. DEPUTY PUBLIC DEFENDER IV Graduation from a recognized law school and two years of full-time experience in the practice of law equivalent to that of a Deputy Public Defender III in Washoe County; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience. Candidates must be licensed to practice law in the State of Nevada or eligible for immediate admission to the Nevada bar.

Training provided in a team-based atmosphere. Conditions of Employment This is a fulltime government position and salary range, depending on experience, is $112,694.40 - $241,529.60 and comes with excellent benefits including health insurance, paid vacation and sick leave, and employer-paid public employee retirement. For a full review of benefits visit https://www.washoecounty.us/humanresources/Benefits/index.php

Reference and background checks will be conducted on selected applicants. What Happens Next To apply, please submit a letter of interest and resume to Joseph Goodnight, Chief Deputy Public Defender, at jgoodnight@washoecounty.gov.

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