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Public Defender Average Salary Jobs (NOW HIRING)

TRG Defender

Staff Public Defender

Eagle Pass, TX

$85K - $110K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Salary is commensurate with experience ($85,000 - $110,000) and includes an excellent fringe ... public defender office; are solution-oriented and creative; are able to work efficiently ...

TRG Defender

Staff Public Defender

Eagle Pass, TX · On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Salary is commensurate with experience ($85,000 - $110,000) and includes an excellent fringe ... public defender office; are solution-oriented and creative; are able to work efficiently ...

State of Arkansas

PUBLIC DEFENDER II

Russellville, AR · On-site

$85K - $127K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

SPC05 Salary Range: $85,943 - $127,195 Job Summary The Public Defender II is responsible for providing high-quality legal defense services to individuals who cannot afford private legal ...

State of Arkansas

PUBLIC DEFENDER II

Ashdown, AR · On-site

$85K - $127K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

SPC05 Salary Range: $85,943 - $127,195 Job Summary The Public Defender II is responsible for providing high-quality legal defense services to individuals who cannot afford private legal ...

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Public Defender Average Salary information

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$28K

$107.5K

$184.5K

How much do public defender average salary jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for public defender average salary 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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a public defender, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Public Defender, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, state bar admission, and a solid understanding of criminal law and courtroom procedures. Familiarity with case management systems, legal research databases (like Westlaw or LexisNexis), and proficiency in drafting legal documents are important technical requirements. Exceptional communication, negotiation, and resilience are vital soft skills for managing heavy caseloads and advocating for clients under pressure. These skills and qualities are crucial for providing effective legal representation to clients who may lack resources, ensuring justice and fairness in the legal system.

What is the difference between Public Defender Average Salary vs Criminal Defense Attorney?

AspectPublic DefenderCriminal Defense Attorney
Required CredentialsJuris Doctor (JD), State Bar LicenseJuris Doctor (JD), State Bar License
Work EnvironmentGovernment offices, courtroomsPrivate law firms, solo practices, government agencies
Employer & IndustryPublic sector, governmentPrivate sector, law firms, solo practices

Public defenders and criminal defense attorneys both require a JD and state licensure. Public defenders work mainly in government settings, focusing on indigent defense, while criminal defense attorneys often work in private practice or firms. Salary differences reflect their employment sectors, with public defenders typically earning less than private criminal defense attorneys.

How much do public defenders make in Vermont?

Public defenders in Vermont typically earn an average salary ranging from $60,000 to $80,000 annually, depending on experience and location. The role often requires strong legal skills, knowledge of criminal law, and the ability to handle high caseloads in a public service environment.

What are some common challenges public defenders face in managing their caseloads?

Public defenders often handle a high volume of cases simultaneously, which can make time management and prioritization particularly challenging. These professionals must balance thorough client representation with strict court deadlines and limited resources. High caseloads may also require public defenders to develop strong organizational and communication skills to ensure effective advocacy for each client. Despite these challenges, the role offers valuable courtroom experience and opportunities to make a significant impact on individuals and the justice system.

What is the average salary of a public defender?

The average salary of a public defender in the United States typically ranges from $50,000 to $70,000 per year, depending on location, years of experience, and the specific jurisdiction. In some large cities or states, salaries may be higher, while rural areas may offer lower compensation. Benefits and opportunities for advancement can also vary by employer. Public defenders generally work for government agencies and often receive public sector benefits in addition to their base salary.
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What cities are hiring for Public Defender Average Salary jobs?

Cities with the most Public Defender Average Salary job openings:

What states have the most Public Defender Average Salary jobs?

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What job categories do people searching Public Defender Average Salary jobs look for?

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Public Defender Average Salary jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Defender Average Salary job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,533 per year, or $51.7 per hour.

Assistant Federal Public Defender (Appellate)

Federal Public Defender

San Antonio, TX • On-site

$77K - $182K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Position Announcement 26-31
ASSISTANT FEDERAL PUBLIC DEFENDER (Appellate)
Office of the Federal Public Defender
Western District of Texas (San Antonio)
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, preferably, or another office within the Western District of Texas. 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, the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, and the U.S. Supreme Court within one year after employment begins. At least three years of specialized experience is preferred. Appointment is subject to a satisfactory background investigation, including but not limited to an FBI name and fingerprint check.
Duties. An assistant federal public defender (Appellate) represents clients charged with and convicted of federal criminal offenses under the Criminal Justice Act. Regular responsibilities include working with clients; managing a caseload; reviewing complex case files and records on appeal; identifying relevant legal issues; providing trial support; preparing pleadings, briefings, and petitions; and maintaining in-depth and current knowledge of appellate practices and case law. The position requires travel for oral arguments. Federal public defender attorneys may not engage in the private practice of law.
Selection Criteria. The successful applicant will have strong legal research and word processing skills, the ability to analyze legal issues from complex records, and write clearly and concisely. Applicants should also have an established capacity or clearly demonstrated aptitude for excellence in criminal defense practice, a commitment to the representation of indigent accused persons, and a reputation for integrity. Applicants must be able to communicate effectively with clients, witnesses, colleagues, and court and agency personnel. 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. Appellate writing experience or experience in handling federal criminal cases 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).
How to Apply.
  • Cover letter, resume and representative writing sample.
  • Three professional references with their contact information.
  • Form AO-78 - All sections of the AO-78 must be completed in full, with dates in the following format: mm/dd/yyyy.
  • Apply at Openings at Federal Public Defender, Western District of Texas. Attach your cover letter, resume, references and the AO-78 in one pdf. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

The Federal Public Defender is an equal-opportunity employer.

Apply