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Public Defender In Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

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Public Defender In information

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 strong foundation in criminal law and trial advocacy. Familiarity with legal research databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis, as well as case management systems, is typically required. Outstanding communication, negotiation, and empathy are crucial soft skills for effectively representing clients and managing high caseloads. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure that clients receive competent legal representation and equal access to justice.

What are Public Defenders?

Public defenders are attorneys appointed by the court to represent individuals who cannot afford to hire a private lawyer in criminal cases. Their primary responsibility is to ensure that every person receives a fair trial and that their legal rights are protected throughout the judicial process. Public defenders handle a variety of cases, including misdemeanors and felonies, and often work with large caseloads. They play a critical role in upholding the right to legal counsel guaranteed by the Constitution.

What are some common challenges faced by Public Defenders in Indiana, and how can new hires best prepare for them?

Public Defenders in Indiana often manage high caseloads and must advocate for clients with limited resources, which can be both demanding and rewarding. New hires may encounter time management challenges and the need to quickly learn courtroom procedures and negotiation tactics. Building strong organizational skills, seeking mentorship from experienced colleagues, and staying up-to-date on legal developments are essential for success. Collaboration with investigators, social workers, and other attorneys is also a key part of the role, helping to ensure clients receive the best possible defense.

What is the difference between Public Defender In vs Public Defender Investigator?

AspectPublic Defender InPublic Defender Investigator
CredentialsLaw degree, bar admissionHigh school diploma or equivalent, law enforcement or investigative experience
Work EnvironmentCourts, law offices, legal settingsFieldwork, interviews, case investigation
Employer & IndustryPublic defender offices, government agenciesPublic defender offices, law enforcement collaborations
Primary RoleLegal defense for clientsGathering evidence, interviewing witnesses

Public Defender In and Public Defender Investigator roles both serve the criminal justice system but focus on different aspects. Public Defender In provides legal defense, requiring law degrees and bar admission, while Public Defender Investigators support cases through investigation and evidence collection. Both roles are essential in public defender offices and often work closely together to ensure clients receive comprehensive legal support.

What cities in Florida are hiring for Public Defender In jobs? Cities in Florida with the most Public Defender In job openings:
PUBLIC DEFENDER'S OFFICE, 3RD CIRCUIT- ASSISTANT PUBLIC DEFENDER - 21009812

PUBLIC DEFENDER'S OFFICE, 3RD CIRCUIT- ASSISTANT PUBLIC DEFENDER - 21009812

State of Florida

Live Oak, FL • On-site

$75K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 28 days ago


State Of Florida rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 180 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

46th of 50 rated states


Job description

Requisition No: 874097
Agency: Justice Administrative Commission
Working Title: PUBLIC DEFENDER'S OFFICE, 3RD CIRCUIT- ASSISTANT PUBLIC DEFENDER - 21009812
Pay Plan: Pub.DefndrsJAC PIB
Position Number: 21009812
Salary: $75,000.00
Posting Closing Date: 10/14/2026
Total Compensation Estimator Tool
LAW OFFICES OF CLIFF WILSON JR.
THIRD CIRCUIT PUBLIC DEFENDER
Position: Assistant Public Defender - Attorney
Location: Live Oak, Florida
Are you tired of the hustle and bustle of life in the big City??? Does quiet, country living with great schools and a lower cost of living speak to you???? Well, the Law Offices of Cliff Wilson Jr., Public Defender, Third Circuit, has an awesome opportunity for an Attorney in our office in Live Oak. The position is a Felony trial position in our Suwannee County office for one of the other Counties within the Third Circuit. We have a very supportive, team atmosphere with many seasoned Trial Lawyers to help you succeed as criminal defense practitioner. Our area offers a charming, small-town atmosphere with many outdoor activities available in our Circuit, including Florida's beautiful Nature Coast, several rivers, including 200 miles of the historic Suwannee River, numerous springs, hiking, camping and a nationally known music park and campground. While we offer a traffic jam free commute, we are also within an easy drive of several metropolitan areas, including Jacksonville, Gainesville, Valdosta, and Tallahassee.
A successful candidate should have good communication skills and be able to work well under pressure. We are a small, selective office and we expect our personnel to be professional, courteous and friendly. An applicant must be a member in good standing with the Florida Bar or have taken the Florida Bar exam. A valid Driver's license is also required. Minimum starting salary for a Florida Bar member is $75,000.00 but will be commensurate with experience. Applications will be accepted through People First and should include a cover letter and resume or may be emailed directly to cwilson@flpd3.com.
Benefits of working for the State of Florida
Working for the State of Florida is more than a paycheck. The total compensation package for our employees features a highly competitive set of benefits including:
Annual and Sick Leave;
Retirement plan options;
Life Insurance coverage;
Comprehensive Health and Prescription options;
State Group Insurance coverage options, including dental, vision, and other supplemental insurance options;
Tuition reimbursement/waivers for some State College courses;
Law School debt forgiveness opportunities.
If you are a retiree of the Florida Retirement System (FRS), please check with the FRS at 1-844-377-1888 on how your current benefits may be affected if you are re-employed with the State of Florida. Your current retirement benefits may be canceled, suspended, or deemed ineligible depending upon the date of your retirement.
Candidates requiring a reasonable accommodation, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act, must notify the agency hiring authority and/or People First Service Center (1-866-663-4735). Notification to the hiring authority must be made in advance to allow sufficient time to provide the accommodation.
The State of Florida supports a Drug-Free workplace. All employees are subject to reasonable suspicion drug testing in accordance with Section 112.0455, F.S., Drug-Free Workplace Act.
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