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Deputy Public Defender Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Washoe County

DEPUTY PUBLIC DEFENDER

Reno, NV · On-site

$116K - $249K/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, NV

DEPUTY PUBLIC DEFENDER

Reno, NV · On-site

$116K - $249K/yr

Public Defender Opening Date: 12/24/2024 Position Information THE WASHOE COUNTY PUBLIC DEFENDER'S OFFICE is accepting applications for the position of Deputy Public Defender in the Criminal Division.

County of Yolo

Deputy Public Defender I-IV

Woodland, CA

$170K - $207K/yr

Deputy Public Defender I $96,033.60 - $116,708.80 Annually Deputy Public Defender II $118,081.60 - $143,540.80 Annually Deputy Public Defender III $145,392.00 - $176,737.60 Annually Deputy Public ...

Washoe County

DEPUTY ALTERNATE PUBLIC DEFENDER

Reno, NV · On-site

$116K - $151K/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 ...

Elkhart County Government

Deputy Public Defender

Goshen, IN · On-site

$88K - $174K/yr

Professional/Deputy Public Defender Date Posted: 6/26/2026 Location: Public Defender Date Available: ASAP Closing Date: Until Filled ELKHART COUNTY GOVERNMENTAL POSITION VACANCY NOTICE DEPUTY PUBLIC ...

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How much do deputy public defender jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for deputy public defender in the United States is $117,450.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $116,500.00 and $116,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a deputy public defender?

Deputy Public Defenders are attorneys employed by the government to provide legal representation to individuals who cannot afford to hire a private lawyer in criminal cases. They work within Public Defender's Offices and are responsible for defending clients in court, negotiating plea deals, and ensuring that the constitutional rights of the accused are protected. Deputy Public Defenders handle a variety of cases, ranging from misdemeanors to serious felonies, and play a vital role in upholding justice within the legal system.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a deputy public defender?

To thrive as a Deputy Public Defender, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, active state bar membership, and strong knowledge of criminal law and courtroom procedures. Familiarity with legal research databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis and case management systems is commonly required. Outstanding communication, negotiation, and empathy are crucial soft skills for building client trust and advocating effectively in court. These capabilities ensure effective legal defense for clients, uphold justice, and contribute to fair legal proceedings.

What challenges do deputy public defenders face and how can new hires prepare for them?

Deputy Public Defenders often manage heavy caseloads and work with clients from diverse backgrounds who may face significant personal and legal challenges. New hires may find it demanding to balance thorough case preparation with court deadlines and high client needs. Building strong time management skills, learning to prioritize tasks efficiently, and seeking mentorship from experienced colleagues can help new Deputy Public Defenders adapt quickly. Developing empathy and strong communication skills is also essential for building trust with clients and navigating courtroom proceedings effectively.

What is the difference between Deputy Public Defender vs Public Defender?

AspectDeputy Public DefenderPublic Defender
CredentialsJuris Doctor (JD), licensed to practice lawJuris Doctor (JD), licensed to practice law
Work EnvironmentAssist in courtroom, legal research, client interviewsOversee public defense team, handle complex cases
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, public defense officesGovernment agencies, public defense offices

Deputy Public Defenders work under the supervision of Public Defenders, handling courtroom duties and legal research. Public Defenders oversee the entire public defense program, managing cases and staff. Both roles require similar credentials and work in government legal settings, but their responsibilities differ in scope and seniority.

What cities are hiring for Deputy Public Defender jobs?

Cities with the most Deputy Public Defender job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Deputy Public Defender jobs?

The most popular types of Deputy Public Defender jobs are:

Who are the top companies hiring for Deputy Public Defender jobs?

The top employers for Deputy Public Defender jobs are:

What states have the most Deputy Public Defender jobs?

States with the most job openings for Deputy Public Defender jobs include:

Deputy Public Defender jobs near you
Infographic showing various Deputy Public Defender job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $117,450 per year, or $56.5 per hour.

DEPUTY PUBLIC DEFENDER

Reno, NV • On-site

Washoe County
See more jobs at Washoe Countyexternal

$116K - $249K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 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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