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Part Time Public Defender Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

County of Napa

Deputy District Attorney I/II/III

Napa, CA · On-site

$119K - $208K/yr

Two years of criminal law, or one year in a District Attorney's Office or Public Defender's Office ... The list established by this recruitment may be used to fill future full-time, part-time, limited ...

County of Monterey

CA

$160K - $274K/yr

... Office, Public Defender's Office, or a criminal defense litigation firm. For the Civil Division ... part-time, or temporary basis. Examples of Duties Prepares criminal and civil cases for pre-trial ...

Alpine Intel

Fire Investigator

Sacramento, CA · Remote

We are currently seeking a Part-Time Fire Investigator to join our growing team in Sacramento , CA ... Must have at least 2 years of hands on experience working in the public and/or private sectors ...

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All JobsPublic Defender JobsPart Time Public Defender JobsPart Time Public Defender Jobs in California

Part Time Public Defender information

See California salary details

$27.6K

$106.1K

$182.1K

How much do part time public defender jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for part time public defender in California is $106,125.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,500.00 and $132,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by part time public defenders, and how can they be managed effectively?

Part-time public defenders often face challenges such as balancing heavy caseloads with limited hours, managing the emotional demands of representing clients in difficult situations, and ensuring effective communication with clients and court staff. To manage these challenges, it’s important to maintain strong organizational skills, set clear boundaries on workload, and leverage support from colleagues and administrative staff. Participating in regular training and peer discussions can also help part-time public defenders stay current on legal developments and share strategies for managing high-stress situations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a part time public defender, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Part Time Public Defender, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, bar admission, and strong knowledge of criminal law and courtroom procedures. Familiarity with legal research databases (like Westlaw or LexisNexis), case management systems, and relevant state or federal certifications are typically required. Excellent communication, negotiation, and empathy help build client trust and effectively argue cases. These skills are crucial for providing effective representation to clients, ensuring justice, and managing a demanding caseload efficiently.

What is the difference between Part Time Public Defender vs Part Time Criminal Defense Attorney?

AspectPart Time Public DefenderPart Time Criminal Defense Attorney
CredentialsJurisdiction-specific law degree, bar licenseLaw degree, bar license, possibly specialized in criminal law
Work EnvironmentPublic defender offices, government agenciesPrivate law firms, solo practices, or government agencies
Employer & IndustryGovernment, public sectorPrivate sector or government
Common Search IntentPublic sector legal work, criminal defensePrivate criminal defense cases, client representation

Part Time Public Defenders typically work for government agencies representing indigent clients, focusing on public sector criminal defense. In contrast, Part Time Criminal Defense Attorneys often work in private practice or firms, handling a broader range of criminal cases for paying clients. Both roles require similar legal credentials but differ mainly in employment setting and client base.

What is a part time public defender?

A part time public defender is a licensed attorney appointed by the court to represent individuals who cannot afford to hire their own lawyer in criminal cases, but does so on a part-time basis rather than as a full-time position. These attorneys often split their time between public defense work and private practice or other legal work. Their primary responsibility remains to provide effective legal representation to their clients, ensuring that their constitutional rights are protected throughout the legal process. Part time public defenders handle a range of cases, from misdemeanors to felonies, depending on the jurisdiction and caseload. This role is essential for maintaining fairness and due process in the justice system.

What are the most commonly searched types of Public Defender jobs in California?

The most popular types of Public Defender jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Part Time Public Defender jobs in California?

For Part Time Public Defender jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Part Time Public Defender jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Part Time Public Defender jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Part Time Public Defender jobs?

Cities in California with the most Part Time Public Defender job openings:

Part Time Public Defender jobs near you
Infographic showing various Part Time Public Defender job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,125 per year, or $51 per hour.

Intern-Internship Opportunities-Unpaid

County of Nevada

Nevada City, CA • On-site

$16 - $21.50/hr

Full-time, Part-time, Internship

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

Definition and Class Characteristics Are you looking to gain work experience in the public sector. Have you ever wondered what types of jobs the County offers. If so, our "Achieve More" Internship Program is the place for you.

We offer a variety of unpaid internship opportunities that allow you to work in various county departments. We strive to provide our interns with valuable job skills and knowledge about county government operations. Our internship opportunities range from part time to full time work.

Internships are available in Western Nevada County and Truckee. **Paid internship opportunities will be posted under separate recruitments when available** Benefits to interning with us: Gain hands on learning experience in a professional work setting Learn about county operations, departments, and job opportunities Develop career related skills, abilities, proficiencies and experience Expand your professional network by working with our diverse and collaborative team of leaders and mentors Make a difference, while working with the community Our internship program was crafted to provide opportunities for career development to individuals interested in working in local government and serving the community. Interns will receive meaningful and wide-ranging assignments in their respective departments and gain exposure to working in a government setting.

Nevada County collaborates with numerous colleges and dynamic community partners to place interns of all abilities within our program. Departments that have hosted interns include but are not limited to: Chief Executive and Board of Supervisor's Office Human Resources and Veteran's Services District Attorney and Victim Witness Advocates Office Health and Human Services Agency - Social Services, Public & Behavioral Health, Child Support Services, Housing and Community Services, Public Defender's Office. Code Compliance & Community Development Office of Emergency Services We are an equal opportunity employer and value individual contributions at our organization.

We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided with reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of internship. Please contact us to request accommodations.

Apply now. For more information, contact our Internship Coordinator team at internship.coordinator@nevadacountyca.gov or call us at (530) 265-7010.

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