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Part Time Public Defender Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Attorney

Bath, NY · On-site

$78K - $122K/yr

Available positions include Assistant and Senior-level roles within the Public Defender's Office ... Full-time and part-time arrangements may be considered for highly qualified candidates. Steuben ...

The Office of the Ohio Public Defender is seeking a post-graduate professional to serve as a Law ... We provide a variety of quality, competitive benefits to eligible full-time and part-time employees*

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Part Time Public Defender information

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$28K

$107.5K

$184.5K

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

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for part time public defender 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 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.
More about Part Time Public Defender jobs
What cities are hiring for Part Time Public Defender jobs? Cities with the most Part Time Public Defender job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Public Defender jobs? The most popular types of Public Defender jobs are:
What states have the most Part Time Public Defender jobs? States with the most job openings for Part Time Public Defender jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Part Time Public Defender jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Part Time Public Defender jobs are:
Infographic showing various Part Time Public Defender job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,533 per year, or $51.7 per hour.

Attorney I-V - Public Defender's Office (0626)

Coconino County

Flagstaff, AZ

$84K - $169K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Nature of Work Attorneys perform legal representation for clients needing publicly assisted representation in criminal felony, misdemeanor, juvenile, mental health, dependency and severance of parental rights cases following appointment by the courts of Coconino County; and perform related duties as required. Advancement in classification is within the discretion of the Department Director based upon attorney performance. Hiring Minimums Attorney I $84,000 Attorney II $90,962 Attorney III $98,515 Attorney IV $106,710 Attorney V $115,602 Typical Duties (Illustrative only) The level and complexity of assignments vary with the level of the position; however, all classes perform the following: Manages caseloads, which include interviewing and advising clients on their legal rights and obligations Analyzes case material after investigations; conducts legal research as required Prepares cases for presentation in court; appears in court and represents clients at court hearings.

Prepares and submits legal documents to the courts on behalf of clients. Writes, or word-processes correspondence and reports and legal documents Maintains accurate records and files Essential functions of this position include but are not limited to: public speaking, driving; sitting; working with and around others; dealing with interruptions; repetitive motion (hand/wrist) for computer work; vision acuity (near) for routine office and customer service duties; hearing and speech for ordinary conversation; finger dexterity for typing and paperwork. Minimum Qualifications Attorney I is the entry-level attorney class.

Incumbents learn court procedures, office policy and the application of laws and legal procedures; and are assigned to routine cases while gaining experience. Incumbents may assist a more experienced attorney or be assigned a full and separate caseload of cases with a minimum degree of difficulty. Coconino County may consider underfilling an Attorney I with a candidate who is in the process of obtaining their AZ State Bar license.

The underfill may be hired at 5% below entry and will have up to 6 months from date of hire to obtain the AZ State Bar license. Attorney II is distinguished from Attorney I by the greater difficulty of cases assigned and the lesser degree of supervision received. Incumbents perform legal work of increasing difficulty.

(Minimum of one and one-half years of experience required) Attorney III is distinguished from Attorney II by working under general direction on more complex and serious cases. The Attorney III level is the full working level and is reserved for attorneys with skill and experience in all areas of their assigned cases. (Minimum of three years of experience required) Attorney IV has responsibility leading and directing a team of attorneys in addition to being a very experienced professional level attorney capable of being assigned extremely difficult cases involving the most complex factual and legal issues, including capital cases.

Legal Defender's Office: May serve as acting director in the absence of the director. (Minimum of five years of experience required) Attorney V is the most experienced professional level attorney. Incumbents are expected to handle the most serious, complex and high profile cases, including capital cases, and may be assigned responsibility for supervising and leading other attorneys.

They may also assist in development and implementation of department policies and procedures. (Minimum of seven years of experience required) No more than 20 per cent of authorized attorney positions for a Department (rounded off to the next whole number) shall be Attorney V positions. These positions are exempt from overtime.

Note: Individuals in exempt classifications as part time employees may be classified as non-exempt per FLSA law regarding minimum weekly salary requirements. These positions are safety sensitive. These positions are At-Will.

Public Defender, Legal Defender & Chief Deputy County Attorney positions are the administrative leaders of their respective offices. (Minimum of five years legal experience and two years supervisory experience required.) These positions are exempt from overtime. Note: Individuals in exempt classifications as part time employees may be classified as non-exempt per FLSA law regarding minimum weekly salary requirements

These positions are safety sensitive. These positions are At-Will. LICENSE Current active membership in the State Bar of Arizona.

Possession of, or ability to attain, a valid Arizona driver's license. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Considerable knowledge of: - Substantive law, rules of evidence, trial and court procedures, legal principles and research methods commensurate with the level of experience of the class - Computer applications related to the work - Standard legal office practices and procedures - Techniques for dealing with individuals of varying races, genders, ethnicity and ages, some of whom may have physical or emotional problems and who appear to be difficult, confused or hostile Ability and Skill in: - Interviewing a variety of individuals and soliciting needed information to determine facts/circumstances - Developing effective strategies for client representation - Analyzing cases and applying legal principles - Presenting statements of law clearly and logically in written and verbal form - Presenting an effective case in court - Managing an assigned caseload - Preparing clear, concise, accurate and effective legal documents, reports, correspondence and other written materials -Maintaining accurate records and files - Using sound independent judgment within established legal, policy and procedural guidelines - Communicating logically and effectively with a diverse group of clients, witnesses, judges, law enforcement officials, other attorneys and employees of various agencies and departments - Demonstrating patience, tact, courtesy and compassion - Work safely and support the culture of workplace safety - Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of the work - Working cooperatively with colleagues to accomplish the policies and goals of the office Coconino County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. AmeriCorps, Peace Corps and other national service alumni are encouraged to apply.