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Entry Level Public Defender Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

... public's right to government records. We use multiple tools, backed by aggressive litigation, to ... entry-level Counsel to join our team to lead and support high-impact litigation advancing ...

... public's right to government records. We use multiple tools, backed by aggressive litigation, to ... entry-level Counsel to join our team to lead and support high-impact litigation advancing ...

Entry Level Public Defender information

See Washington salary details

$31.7K

$121.8K

$209K

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

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level public defender in Washington is $121,792.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,200.00 and $151,800.00 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 Washington? The most popular types of Public Defender jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Public Defender jobs in Washington? For Entry Level Public Defender jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Public Defender jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Public Defender jobs in Washington are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Public Defender job openings in Washington 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 $121,792 per year, or $58.6 per hour.

PUBLIC DEFENDER INTAKE SPECIALIST I

State of Maryland - OPD District Operations

Charles, MD • On-site

$17.75 - $24/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Introduction

This is a repost. Previous applicants do not need to reapply.\r\n\r\nAs a State agency, Maryland Office of the Public Defender (MOPD) is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. MOPD is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, physical or mental disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status or genetic information.\r\n\r\n\r\nAll applicants must be able to communicate with client sand visitors and possess the ability to complete tasks in a fast-paced work environment. Applicants must be able to work in various settings. MOPD is further committed to providing equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services ,programs and activities by modifying or adjusting the job application processor the job or work environment to make reasonable accommodations to the known applicant or employee to enable the applicant or employee be considered for the position they desire; to perform the essential functions of the position in question; or to enjoy equal benefits and privileges of employment as are enjoyed by other similarly situated employees without disabilities, unless the accommodation imposes an undue hardship. Applicants must be able to operate a computer and other office equipment. Applicants must have access to a motor vehicle or be able to navigate public transportation. If a reasonable accommodation is needed, please contact Tawanda Jackson, Human Resources Supervisor, 410-767-8503 tawandal.jackson@maryland.gov.\r\n\r\n\r\nThe Office of the Public Defender is seeking detail-oriented applicants with customer service and data entry skills for full-time, entry level, Public Defender Intake Specialist I position.The position requires the ability to work in a fast-paced environment in our Charles County office. Occasional travel betweenoffices is required as well as travel to the courthouse and county detention center for clientinterviews. Bilingual applicants, who are fluent in English and Spanish, are encouraged to apply.\r\n\r\n\r\n

GRADE

ASTD8

LOCATION OF POSITION

200 Kent Ave, Suite 102, LaPlata, MD 20646\r\n23110 Leonard Hall Dr #2059, Leonardtown, MD 20650\r\n

Main Purpose of Job

A Public Defender Intake Specialist I is the intermediate level of work determining client eligibility for representation by the Office of the Public Defender and obtaining initial client information for preparation of case files. Employees in this classification do not supervise other positions.\r\nEmployees in this classification receive moderate supervision from a Public Defender Intake Specialist Supervisor or an administrator. Work is performed at local public defender offices, jails, detention centers, prisons and the courts of Maryland.\r\n

POSITION DUTIES

The PublicDefender Intake Specialist I is the first interaction clients have with the Office of the Public Defender. Professionalism, people skills, and empathy area must. Intake Specialists are responsible for the creation of the file for the attorney, creating and mailing assignment letters to clients and attorneys, and filing entries of appearance with the court. Additionally, the IntakeSpecialist I must answer phones, greet the public, retrieve and enter data. Public Defender IntakeSpecialist I will also help with organization of casefiles and process discovery. Assist co-workers when needed.\r\n

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education: Graduation from an accredited high school or possession of a high school equivalency certificate.\r\nExperience: Six months of experience interviewing persons for the purpose of obtaining and verifying background or financial information.\r\nNotes:\r\n1.Candidates may substitute additional experience interviewing persons for the purpose of obtaining background or financial information on a year-for-year basis for the required education.\r\n2. Candidates may substitute 60 credit hours from an accreditedcollege or university for the required experience.\r\n3. Candidates may substitute U.S. Armed Forces militaryservice experience as a non-commissioned officer inCompliance Inspection and Support classifications orCompliance Inspection and Support specialty codes in theInspection, Investigation, Enforcement, and Compliance field of work on a year-for-year basis for the required experience.\r\n

DESIRED OR PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Preferred Qualifications:\r\nProficiency indata entry, strong communication skills and experience working in a fast pace retail or office environment. Customer service experience and a stronginterest in working with indigent defendants and their families.Experience working with MDEC Documents.\r\n

LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS AND CERTIFICATIONS

Employees in this classification may be assigned duties which require the operation of a motor vehicle. Employees assigned such duties will be required to possess a motor vehicle operator's license valid in the State of Maryland. \r\n

SELECTION PROCESS

Applicants who meet the minimumqualifications will be admitted to the examination for thisclassification. Successful candidates will be ranked as BEST QUALIFIED,BETTER QUALIFIED, OR QUALIFIED and placed on the employment (eligible) list forat least one year.\r\n

EXAMINATION PROCESS

The examination will consist of arating of your education, training and experience related to the requirementsof the position. You may be required to complete a qualificationssupplement, or the rating may be based on your application. Therefore, itis important that you provide complete and accurate information on yourapplication. Report all experience and education that is related to thisposition.\r\n

BENEFITS

STATE OF MARYLAND BENEFITS\r\n

FURTHER INSTRUCTIONS

Online Applications Preferred. Please fax all paper applications and questionnaires to(410) 333-2260.Inquiries regarding applications and submitting paper applications can be directed to: Office of the Public Defender, Human Resources Division, 6 Saint Paul Street, Suite 1304, Baltimore, MD 21202; or by calling (410) 767-8500, toll free: 877-430-5187; TTY users call Maryland Relay Service 800-735-2258.\r\nPlease be sure to include your name, identification number (Easy ID#) and job announcement number on any documentation to ensure timely processing. A paper copy of the MD State application form and questionnaire can be downloaded from the link below.\r\nAs an equal opportunity employer, Maryland is committed to recruiting, retaining and promoting employees who are reflective of the State's diversity. We thank our Veterans for their service to our country and encourage them to apply. People with disabilities and bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply.\r\n

Employment Type: Full-Time