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Entry Level Public Defender Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING)

Georgia

Assistant Public Defender 1

Athens, GA · On-site

$61K - $83K/yr

Assistant Public Defender 1 Job Requisition ID: JR0000000884 Number of Openings: 1 Shift: Day ... This position performs entry-level professional legal work under the supervision of senior ...

City of Jonesboro

Police Officer

Jonesboro, GA · On-site

$60K - $64K/yr

This is an entry-level position which works under the general supervision of a Sergeant (Shift Commander). Officer's performs a wide range of duties to promote public safety and security, crime ...

City of Jonesboro

Police Officer

Jonesboro, GA · On-site

$60K - $64K/yr

This is an entry-level position which works under the general supervision of a Sergeant (Shift Commander). Officer's performs a wide range of duties to promote public safety and security, crime ...

All JobsPublic Defender JobsEntry Level Public Defender JobsEntry Level Public Defender Jobs in Georgia

Entry Level Public Defender information

See Georgia salary details

$23.6K

$90.8K

$155.8K

How much do entry level public defender jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level public defender in Georgia is $90,799.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,100.00 and $113,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level public defenders, and how can new hires effectively manage them?

Entry-level public defenders often face challenges such as high caseloads, emotionally demanding cases, and working with clients from diverse backgrounds who may be distrustful of the legal system. To manage these challenges, new hires benefit from strong organizational skills, regular communication with supervisors and colleagues, and seeking mentorship within their office. Collaboration with social workers, investigators, and more experienced attorneys also helps in building effective defense strategies and professional resilience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level public defender?

To thrive as an Entry Level Public Defender, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, bar admission in the practicing state, and a solid understanding of criminal law and procedure. Familiarity with legal research databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis and case management systems is typically required. Exceptional communication, empathy, resilience, and negotiation skills help you connect with clients and effectively advocate in court. These competencies are essential for providing high-quality legal defense to underserved populations and managing a demanding caseload.

What is an entry level public defender?

Entry level public defenders are attorneys who have recently started their careers and work for government-funded agencies to represent individuals who cannot afford to hire private legal counsel in criminal cases. Their primary responsibilities include representing clients in court, negotiating plea deals, and ensuring their clients’ rights are protected throughout the criminal justice process. Entry level public defenders often handle a high volume of cases and gain valuable courtroom experience early in their careers. They play a critical role in upholding the right to legal representation and ensuring a fair trial for all.

What is the difference between Entry Level Public Defender vs Public Defender Associate?

AspectEntry Level Public DefenderPublic Defender Associate
Required CredentialsJuris Doctor (JD), State Bar AdmissionJuris Doctor (JD), State Bar Admission
Work EnvironmentPublic defense offices, courtroomsPublic defense offices, courtrooms
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, legal aid organizationsGovernment agencies, legal aid organizations
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Public Defenders and Public Defender Associates typically require similar credentials, such as a JD and state bar admission. Both roles work in public defense offices within government or legal aid organizations, often in courtrooms. The main difference is often in job titles used by different jurisdictions, but their responsibilities and work environments are quite similar, making them common points of comparison for job seekers.

What are the most commonly searched types of Public Defender jobs in Georgia? The most popular types of Public Defender jobs in Georgia are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Public Defender jobs in Georgia? For Entry Level Public Defender jobs in Georgia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Public Defender jobs in Georgia look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Public Defender jobs in Georgia are:
Entry Level Public Defender jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Public Defender job openings in Georgia 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 $90,799 per year, or $43.7 per hour.

Assistant Public Defender 1

Georgia

Athens, GA • On-site

$61K - $83K/yr

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Explore a World of Opportunity with the State of Georgia!

We are the force that drives Georgia!
Georgia State Government is a large enterprise, composed of various agencies and entities with a common goal to improve the lives of Georgia's more than 10 million citizens!
Join Team Georgia and impact lives everyday while receiving a robust benefits package designed for every stage of your career!

Job Title:

Assistant Public Defender 1

Job Requisition ID:

JR0000000884

Number of Openings:

1

Shift:

Day (United States of America)

Compensation Details:

$72,000.00

Job Description:

The Western Judicial Circuit Public Defender's Office is seeking a qualified and dedicated applicant for the position ofAssistant Public Defender I. The Circuit serves Clarke and Oconee Counties. Applicants must meet the qualifications and have the necessary skills to perform the job duties and responsibilities for the position. The primary responsibilities include assisting and/or handling indigent clients' representation with criminal cases in Superior Court. Proven commitment to indigent defense is preferred. Applicants must be a current member in good standing with the State Bar of Georgia.

Interested applicants should apply onhttps://careers.georgia.gov/ and submit a cover letter and resume to John Donnelly, Circuit Public Defender, atjdonnelly@gapublicdefender.org.

Description of Duties:The Assistant Public Defender I provides competent and zealous legal representation and advocacy to indigent clients in criminal and related proceedings. This position performs entry-level professional legal work under the supervision of senior attorneys and may assist in cases of routine to moderate complexity. Candidates must possess a Juris Doctorate from an accredited college or university and a license to practice law in the State of Georgia. Performs other related duties as required.

Minimum Qualifications:

Juris Doctorate from an accredited college or university AND license to practice law in the State of Georgia OR eligibility to sit for the next Georgia Bar examination followed by Georgia Bar exam passage and licensure to practice law in the State of Georgia within one (1) year of hiring OR reciprocity (must obtain Law License). Note: Some positions may not allow the eligibility clause

Equal Employment Opportunity Employer

The State of Georgia does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, or other protected categories in employment or the provision of services.
Qualified applicants may request reasonable accommodation when needed during the application and/or screening process by contacting the appropriate agency Human Resources department.

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