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Paralegal Public Defender Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CITY OF CHEYENNE

Paralegal/Legal Assistant

Cheyenne, WY · On-site

$56K - $67K/yr

Public Defender SUPERVISOR: Public Defender SALARY: $56,128 to $67,354 Annually GENERAL Under the direction and supervision of the Public Defender, this position performs paralegal duties with ...

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How much do paralegal public defender jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for paralegal public defender in the United States is $59,731.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,000.00 and $68,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Paralegal Public Defender job?

A Paralegal Public Defender assists public defense attorneys in representing clients who cannot afford legal counsel. They conduct legal research, draft documents, organize case files, and communicate with clients and witnesses. Their work ensures that attorneys are well-prepared for court proceedings. This role requires strong research, organizational, and communication skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Paralegal Public Defender position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Paralegal Public Defender, you need a solid understanding of criminal law, legal research, document drafting, and case preparation, typically with a paralegal certificate or degree. Familiarity with legal research databases (such as Westlaw or LexisNexis), case management software, and court filing systems is also essential. Organization, attention to detail, strong communication, and ability to work under pressure are critical soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities enable effective support to public defenders and ensure clients receive thorough, efficient legal representation.

What are some common responsibilities of a Paralegal Public Defender on a day-to-day basis?

Paralegal Public Defenders assist attorneys by researching case law, reviewing and organizing discovery materials, preparing legal documents, and managing case files. They often interact with clients, witnesses, and law enforcement to gather essential information and coordinate meetings. Additionally, they may help attorneys prepare for court by creating exhibits or summarizing evidence. This dynamic role requires strong organizational skills, effective communication, and the ability to handle confidential information with discretion.

More about Paralegal Public Defender jobs
What cities are hiring for Paralegal Public Defender jobs? Cities with the most Paralegal Public Defender job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Paralegal Public Defender jobs? The most popular types of Paralegal Public Defender jobs are:
What states have the most Paralegal Public Defender jobs? States with the most job openings for Paralegal Public Defender jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Paralegal Public Defender jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Paralegal Public Defender jobs are:
Paralegal Public Defender jobs near you
Infographic showing various Paralegal Public Defender job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Locum Tenens, 82% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 9% Summer. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,731 per year, or $28.7 per hour.

Assistant Federal Public Defender (Trial)

Federal Public Defender

San Antonio, TX • On-site

$57K - $77K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

The Federal Public Defender for the Western District of Texas is accepting applications for an assistant federal public defender to be stationed in the San Antonio office. The Federal Public Defender operates under authority of the Criminal Justice Act, 18 U.S.C. 3006A, to provide defense services in federal criminal cases and related matters by appointment from the court to individuals unable to afford counsel.
Requirements. An Assistant Federal Public Defender must be (1) a graduate of an accredited law school; (2) admitted to practice before a state bar, but a Texas bar license is strongly preferred; and (3) licensed to practice in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Texas prior to entry on duty. Appointment is subject to a satisfactory background investigation, including but not limited to an FBI name and fingerprint check and an IRS tax check.
Duties. An Assistant Federal Public Defender will represent clients charged with federal criminal offenses and clients involved in other matters covered under the Criminal Justice Act. Regular responsibilities include working with clients; digesting large case files and investigative materials; developing litigation strategies; drafting pleadings; conducting evidentiary hearings and trials; working with experts and other witnesses; and supervising teams of investigators, mitigation specialists, paralegals, and legal assistants. The position requires travel for investigation, litigation, and training, and may involve foreign travel. Federal Public Defender attorneys may not engage in the private practice of law.
Selection Criteria. The successful applicant will have strong writing and oral advocacy skills, an established capacity or clearly demonstrated aptitude for excellence in criminal defense practice, a commitment to the representation of indigent accused people, and a reputation for integrity. Applicants must also possess the ability to communicate effectively with clients, witnesses, colleagues, staff, and court and agency personnel as part of their employment. Finally, applicants must also be team-oriented and possess skills for collaboration, strategic litigation, compassionate representation, and unique approaches to the issues affecting our clients. Three to five years of federal criminal trial experience is preferred. Spanish-language fluency is preferred.
Salary and Benefits. The salary of an Assistant Federal Public Defender is commensurate with that of an assistant U.S. attorney with similar qualifications and experience. The position is in the excepted service and does not carry the tenure rights of the competitive Civil Service. The position offers federal government employment benefits, including health and life insurance, retirement, and participation in the Thrift Savings Plan. Salary is payable only by Electronic Funds Transfer (direct deposit).
The Federal Public Defender is an equal-opportunity employer.

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