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Federal Public Defender Office Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Kendall County

IL · On-site

$77 - $94/hr

Posted Date: 04/03/2026 KENDALL COUNTY PUBLIC DEFENDER'S OFFICE Now Hiring Full-Time Assistant Public Defender Job Title: Assistant Public Defender Reports To: Kendall County Public Defender SUMMARY:

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Federal Public Defender Office information

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How much do federal public defender office jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for federal public defender office in the United States is $107,533.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,500.00 and $134,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Federal Public Defender Office?

A Federal Public Defender Office is a government agency that provides legal representation to individuals charged with federal crimes who cannot afford to hire private attorneys. These offices employ experienced defense attorneys who advocate for their clients in federal court, ensuring their constitutional right to legal counsel is protected. Federal Public Defenders handle a wide range of cases, from drug offenses to white-collar crimes, and work to ensure fair treatment throughout the judicial process.

What are common challenges faced by attorneys working in a Federal Public Defender Office?

Attorneys in a Federal Public Defender Office often manage heavy caseloads with tight deadlines, requiring strong organizational and time-management skills. They must advocate for clients who may be facing serious federal charges, which can present unique legal and emotional challenges. Collaboration is key, as attorneys work closely with investigators, paralegals, and support staff to build effective defense strategies. The work environment is typically fast-paced, requiring adaptability and a commitment to upholding the rights of indigent defendants. Despite these challenges, the role offers significant opportunities for courtroom experience, professional growth, and making a meaningful impact.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a Federal Public Defender Office, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Federal Public Defender Office, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, bar admission, and strong knowledge of federal criminal law and procedure. Familiarity with legal research databases, case management systems, and document preparation software is typical. Outstanding advocacy, analytical thinking, and interpersonal skills help you effectively represent clients and collaborate with colleagues. These skills are crucial to ensure fair defense, uphold constitutional rights, and achieve just outcomes in complex federal cases.

What is the difference between Federal Public Defender Office vs Public Defender?

AspectFederal Public Defender OfficePublic Defender
CredentialsJuris Doctor (JD), bar admission, federal legal experienceJuris Doctor (JD), bar admission, state legal experience
Work EnvironmentFederal courts, federal legal system, nationwide officesState courts, state legal system, local offices
Employer & IndustryFederal government, criminal defense in federal casesLocal/state government, criminal defense in state cases

The Federal Public Defender Office and Public Defender roles both provide criminal defense services, but the Federal Public Defender Office operates within the federal court system, handling federal cases and requiring federal legal experience. Public Defenders work within state courts, focusing on state-level cases. Both roles require similar legal credentials, but differ in jurisdiction, work environment, and scope of cases.

More about Federal Public Defender Office jobs

What cities are hiring for Federal Public Defender Office jobs?

Cities with the most Federal Public Defender Office job openings:

What states have the most Federal Public Defender Office jobs?

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

What job categories do people searching Federal Public Defender Office jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Federal Public Defender Office jobs are:

Federal Public Defender Office jobs near you

PUBLIC DEFENDER'S OFFICE, 1ST CIRCUIT- ASSISTANT PUBLIC DEFENDER - 21000989

State of Florida

Defuniak Springs, FL • On-site

$74K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Requisition No: 876320 

Agency: Justice Administrative Commission

Working Title: PUBLIC DEFENDER'S OFFICE, 1ST CIRCUIT- ASSISTANT PUBLIC DEFENDER - 21000989

 Pay Plan: Pub.DefndrsJAC

Position Number: 21000989 

Salary:  $74,000.00 

Posting Closing Date: 10/31/2026 

Total Compensation Estimator Tool

Agency:          Office of the Public Defender, First Circuit

How to Apply:           Use People First on-line system. Attach resume.

Position:        Attorney (Assistant Public Defender)

Salary:            Based Upon Experience (minimum $74,000.00 annually and a generous benefits package)

DESCRIPTION:

IMMEDIATE HIRE. Public Defender’s Office in Walton County, Florida, is seeking an attorney to handle a misdemeanor or felony caseload. Starting salary is $74,000, with higher pay based on experience.

In the south end of Walton County enjoy the beautiful beaches along 30A that were ranked by HGTV as the top beaches in Florida. Our office is located in Defuniak Springs which is described as “the best small town in Florida” by MSN Insider.  With deep gulf water fishing, state park canoeing and camping, and so much more, come live your best life where some only vacation.

  • Quality of Life. Lower Cost of living. Affordable housing.
  • Enjoy a positive and supportive workplace environment where you are challenged and encouraged to grow

Our attorneys manage a reasonable caseload, enjoy professional independence, yet receive strong support from our office administration and senior attorneys which allows you to maintain a healthy balance between your personal and professional life. As part of your training, our attorneys belong to the Florida Public Defender Association (FPDA), enjoy paid travel to continuing education seminars hosted by the FPDA and receive CLE credits. Generous benefits include State retirement system and health/hospitalization, life, and disability insurance coverage.

Preference given to members in good standing of The Florida Bar.

The Public Defender's Office has protected the Constitution and the rights of Florida citizens since the landmark Supreme Court case, Gideon v. Wainwright. Our office is responsible for providing legal counsel, when appointed by the Court, to those accused of criminal offenses who cannot afford to hire a lawyer, performing as trial counsel by representing defendants during courtroom proceedings, researching case law, communicating with defendant to determine trial strategy such as cross-examination procedures, witness selection, jury selection, testimony decisions and opening and closing arguments.

Employer has a "harassment-free" workplace policy requiring honesty, confidentiality and professional conduct. All employees must uphold confidentiality requirements of all host software programs. Employees must also practice safe workplace procedures, and follow policies and procedures.

If you are a retiree of the Florida Retirement System (FRS), please check with the FRS at 1-844-377-1888 on how your current benefits may be affected if you are re-employed with the State of Florida. Your current retirement benefits may be canceled, suspended, or deemed ineligible depending upon the date of your retirement.

Candidates requiring a reasonable accommodation, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act, must notify the agency hiring authority and/or People First Service Center (1-866-663-4735). Notification to the hiring authority must be made in advance to allow sufficient time to provide the accommodation.

The State of Florida supports a Drug-Free workplace. All employees are subject to reasonable suspicion drug testing in accordance with Section 112.0455, F.S., Drug-Free Workplace Act.

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