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Federal Defender Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Lewis Brisbois

Medical Malpractice Partner

Tampa, FL

... federal courts and administrative proceedings. Experience defending nursing homes and medical malpractice lawsuits is required. A portable book of business is preferred, but not required. Lewis ...

Lewis Brisbois

Medical Malpractice Partner

Tampa, FL · On-site

... federal courts and administrative proceedings. Experience defending nursing homes and medical malpractice lawsuits is required. A portable book of business is preferred, but not required. Lewis ...

Lewis Brisbois

Medical Malpractice Partner

Tampa, FL

... federal courts and administrative proceedings. Experience defending nursing homes and medical malpractice lawsuits is required. A portable book of business is preferred, but not required. Lewis ...

Jobot

Defense Attorney

Saint Petersburg, FL · On-site +1

$120K - $220K/yr

... firm committed to defending business owners throughout the state. We defend professionals ... It is Jobot's policy to comply with all applicable federal, state and local laws respecting ...

kgs

Penetration Testing Lead

Leesburg, VA · On-site

GIAC Certified Enterprise Defender (GCED) * GIAC Certified Forensic Analyst (GCFA) Preferred Qualifications: * Experience supporting federal agencies or regulated cybersecurity environments.

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Showing results 21-40

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Federal Defender information

See Florida salary details

$35.1K

$58.7K

$98.6K

How much do federal defender jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for federal defender in Florida is $58,727.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,800.00 and $64,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a federal defender?

Federal defenders are attorneys who provide legal representation to individuals charged with federal crimes who cannot afford to hire private counsel. They are part of the federal public defender system, which is designed to ensure that everyone has access to fair legal defense, regardless of their financial situation. Federal defenders handle a variety of cases, ranging from drug offenses to white-collar crimes, and work to protect the rights of the accused throughout the federal criminal justice process.

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

To thrive as a Federal Defender, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, bar admission, and a comprehensive understanding of federal criminal law and procedure. Familiarity with legal research databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis, and experience with case management systems, are typically required. Exceptional advocacy, negotiation, and communication skills, along with empathy and resilience, help distinguish outstanding defenders. These competencies are essential for ensuring effective legal representation, protecting clients' rights, and navigating the complexities of the federal justice system.

What are some common challenges faced by federal defenders in managing their caseloads?

Federal Defenders often handle a high volume of complex cases, which can require balancing tight deadlines, thorough legal research, and frequent court appearances. Managing client communication and building trust, especially with clients facing serious charges, can be demanding. Collaboration with investigators, paralegals, and other attorneys is essential to prepare effective defenses. Staying up to date with changes in federal law and procedure is also a key part of the role, as is maintaining a commitment to ethical and diligent representation under often challenging circumstances.

What is the difference between Federal Defender vs Public Defender?

AspectFederal DefenderPublic Defender
CredentialsJuris Doctor, bar admission, specialized federal criminal law knowledgeJuris Doctor, bar admission, state-specific criminal law knowledge
Work EnvironmentFederal courts, federal criminal casesState courts, state criminal cases
EmployerFederal Public Defender ServiceCounty or state government agencies
Industry UsageFederal criminal defenseState criminal defense

The main difference between a Federal Defender and a Public Defender lies in their jurisdiction and employer. Federal Defenders work in federal courts handling federal criminal cases, while Public Defenders serve in state courts handling state criminal cases. Both roles require a Juris Doctor, bar admission, and strong criminal law knowledge, but their scope and employer differ significantly.

What cities in Florida are hiring for Federal Defender jobs?

Cities in Florida with the most Federal Defender job openings:

Federal Defender jobs near you
Infographic showing various Federal Defender job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,727 per year, or $28.2 per hour.

General Liability Attorney

Cole Scott and Kissane PA

Tampa, FL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Cole, Scott & Kissane seeks a driven, hard-working attorney to join our General Liability practice group. Our General Liability attorneys defend businesses and individuals in a wide range of legal matters, from premises liability to products liability, and all types of torts.
Responsibilities:
  • Take and defend depositions
  • Draft and argue dispositive motions
  • Attend hearings, mediations, and trials
  • Perform legal research and provide analysis of case law
  • Prepare pleadings and correspondence
  • Communicate with clients, expert witnesses, and opposing counsel
  • Provide exemplary legal counsel to clients

Qualifications:
  • Must be a licensed member of the Florida Bar
  • Excellent verbal and written communications skills
  • Problem-solving skills
  • Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
  • Prior litigation experience preferred, but not required

Benefits:
  • Competitive Compensation, with Monthly Revenue-Based Bonus potential for associates, and End-of-Year Bonus
  • Full Benefits Package, with choices from among several Health, Dental, Disability, and Life Insurance Plans
  • 401(k) with Employer Matching
  • 20 days of Paid Time Off
  • Parental Leave
  • Professional Development with our "CSK Learning Series" and In-Office Lunch and Learns
  • Diverse, Inclusive, Supportive, and Team-Oriented Work Environment

#AC
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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