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Part Time Public Defender Jobs (NOW HIRING)

MSCCN

Public Safety Officer - Part Time

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$26.59 - $31.91/hr

Public Safety Officer - Part Time Department: Safety, Security & Project Management Shift: Day Shift/Night Shift FLSA Status: Non-Exempt - Non-Represented Reports To: Manager of Safety and Security ...

Felton Institute

Case Manager (Part-Time)

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$21.75 - $28.25/hr

Case Manager (Part-Time) Bridge Housing Site Management and Support Services Justice Services ... A client-centered approach can also include a public defender and supporter to help make self ...

Felton Institute

Case Manager (Part-Time)

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$21.75 - $28.25/hr

Case Manager (Part-Time) Bridge Housing Site Management and Support Services Justice Services ... A client-centered approach can also include a public defender and supporter to help make self ...

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Part Time Public Defender information

See salary details

$28K

$107.5K

$184.5K

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

As of Jul 21, 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 else can I do with a law degree besides being a lawyer?

A law degree can open opportunities in roles such as legal analyst, compliance officer, mediator, or policy advisor. It also provides a strong foundation for careers in government, corporate legal departments, or non-profit organizations, often requiring skills in research, negotiation, and understanding legal systems.

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.

How hard is it to get hired as a public defender?

Getting hired as a public defender typically requires a law degree, passing the state bar exam, and relevant legal experience or internships. Competition can be high due to limited positions, and strong communication, legal research, and courtroom skills are important for success in the hiring process.

How much are public defenders paid per hour?

Public defenders are typically paid an annual salary rather than an hourly rate, with salaries often ranging from $50,000 to $80,000 depending on experience and location. If paid hourly, their rates generally fall between $20 and $40 per hour, but this can vary based on jurisdiction and workload. Many public defenders work full-time, and their compensation may include benefits and job stability rather than direct hourly pay.

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.

Is public defender a stressful job?

Public defenders often face high stress due to heavy caseloads, tight deadlines, and the emotional nature of defending clients in criminal cases. The job requires strong time management, resilience, and the ability to handle complex legal issues under pressure.
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:
Part Time Public Defender jobs near you
Infographic showing various Part Time Public Defender job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 62% As Needed, 10% Full Time, 26% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 85% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,533 per year, or $51.7 per hour.

Part-Time Attorney I, II or III (Benefits Eligible) - Bisbee

Cochise County, AZ

Bisbee, AZ • On-site

$30.18 - $44.96/hr

Part-time

Retirement

Posted 5 hours ago

Job description

Salary: See Position Description
Location : Bisbee/Sierra Vista, AZ
Job Type: B Regular, Part-Time
Job Number: 080923
Department: Legal Advocate
Opening Date: 05/20/2025
PART-TIME ATTORNEY I, II, or III (BENEFITS ELIGIBLE) - BISBEE
HOURS RANGE BETWEEN 20 - 30 PER WEEK, DEPENDENT ON CANDIDATE AVAILABILITY
UNCLASSIFIED: Position is not entitled to the rights provided by the Merit System Rules pursuant to Arizona LawPOSITIONS AVAILABLE IN OFFICES OF THE
LEGAL ADVOCATE, LEGAL DEFENDER, PUBLIC DEFENDER
CLOSES: Position is open until filled with applications reviewed upon receipt. May close at anytime.
ANTICIPATED HIRING RANGE: $30.18 - $44.96 per hour dependent upon qualifications, plus a comprehensive benefits package to include membership in the Arizona State Retirement System.APPLICATION MATERIALS REQUIRED: Application, cover letter, resume, and Bar Letter of Good Standing
PLEASE NOTE: This position requires a post offer, pre-employment background screening
Cochise County, a quality location to work, live and enjoy life! Learn more here:
ATTORNEY I: Under general supervision provides professional legal services of moderate difficulty; performs other legal services as assigned.
ATTORNEY II: Under general supervision provides professional legal services of considerable difficulty; provides other legal services as assigned.
ATTORNEY III: Under general supervision, supervises professional legal services of unusual difficulty; performs other legal services as assigned.
Essential Functions
As defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include any of the following tasks, knowledge, skills, and other characteristics. This list is ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and tasks performed by incumbents of this class.
ATTORNEY I: Initiates, engages, and defends litigation; performs legal research; reviews and prepares legal documents; renders legal advice to clients; performs factual investigations.
ATTORNEY II (in addition to Attorney I Duties): May supervise junior staff; handles appeals.
ATTORNEY III (in addition to Attorney I and II): May supervise and reviews work of staff attorneys; performs organization and administrative duties.
Minimum Qualifications
ATTORNEY I: Graduation from an accredited law school and admission to the State Bar of Arizona. Must possess and maintain a valid Arizona driver's license and ability to be covered by county insurance.
ATTORNEY II: Graduation from an accredited law school, admission to the State Bar of Arizona, and a minimum of two (2) years of relevant legal experience. Must possess and maintain a valid Arizona driver's license and ability to be covered by county insurance.
ATTORNEY III: Graduation from an accredited law school, admission to the State Bar of Arizona, and a minimum of four (4) years of relevant legal experience. Must possess and maintain a valid Arizona driver's license and ability to be covered by county insurance.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: Preference may be given to candidates with experience in criminal, appellate, and/or dependency case law.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Attorney I / Working knowledge of:
  • principles and practices of law;
  • legal procedures and administrative proceedings;
  • methods and practices of pleadings;
  • judicial procedures and the rules of evidence;
  • principles, methods, materials, practices and references utilized in legal research.

Attorney II / Considerable knowledge of:
  • principles and practices of law;
  • legal procedures and administrative proceedings;
  • methods and practices of pleadings;
  • judicial procedures and the rules of evidence;
  • principles, methods, materials, practices and references utilized in legal research.

Attorney III / Thorough knowledge of:
  • principles and practices of law;
  • legal procedures and administrative proceedings;
  • methods and practices of pleadings;
  • judicial procedures and the rules of evidence;
  • principles, methods, materials, practices and references utilized in legal research.

Attorney I / Good skill in:
  • applying legal knowledge and training on behalf of public entities.
Attorney II / Considerable skill in:
  • applying legal knowledge and training on behalf of public entities.
Attorney III / Considerable knowledge of:
  • principles and practices of management and supervision.

Attorney I / Working skill in:
  • analyzing, appraising, and organizing facts, evidence, and precedents;
  • rendering logical, clear and effective written reports and oral arguments;
  • determining alternative courses of action;
  • presenting and arguing cases in court and handle unanticipated problems smoothly.

Attorney II / Good skill in:
  • analyzing, appraising, and organizing facts, evidence, and precedents;
  • rendering logical, clear and effective written reports and oral arguments;
  • determining alternative courses of action;
  • presenting and arguing cases in court and handle unanticipated problems smoothly.

Attorney III / Considerable skill in:
  • analyzing, appraising, and organizing facts, evidence, and precedents;
  • rendering logical, clear and effective written reports and oral arguments;
  • determining alternative courses of action;
  • presenting and arguing cases in court and handle unanticipated problems smoothly.

Attorney I, II, III / Ability to:
  • establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, other agencies, and the public;
  • follow written and verbal instruction;
  • read, write and speak English;
  • communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
WORK ENVIRONMENT: Work is primarily performed under general supervision. Incumbent generally performs work in a typical office or court setting with appropriate climate controls.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Essential functions of this position require: lifting, manual dexterity, ability to communicate.
Light Work: Exerting up to 20 pounds of force frequently lifting or carrying of objects weighing up to 10 pounds requires a good deal of walking, standing or involves sitting most of the time.
Mental Application: Utilizes memory for details, verbal instructions, emotional stability, critical thinking, adaptability and creative problem-solving skills are important
Reasonable accommodations will be made for those that are able to perform the essential functions of the job with or without accommodation.
Cochise County is an Equal Opportunity Employer
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Positions are available in the following legal departments. Do you have a preference of which one you would like to be considered?
  • Legal Advocate
  • Legal Defender
  • Public Defender
  • No preference

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