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Public Defender In Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

Denovo Review

Litigation Attorney (288/o)

Manhattan, NY

$75K - $125K/yr

Must be licensed in good standing with the Florida Bar * Must have a minimum of 5 years of litigation and trial experience, civil litigation, commercial litigation, state attorney or public defender ...

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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.

How much do public defenders get paid per hour?

Public defenders typically earn between $25 and $50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the employing agency. Salaries are often based on annual pay scales, but hourly rates can be estimated by dividing the annual salary by the number of work hours in a year, usually around 2,000 hours. Many public defenders work full-time in government or legal aid offices, requiring a Juris Doctor degree and passing the bar exam.

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 advocacy, communication skills, and knowledge of criminal law are essential for success in the hiring process.

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.

Is it good to be a public defender?

Public defenders provide legal representation to individuals who cannot afford private attorneys, playing a vital role in the justice system. The job offers experience in criminal law, courtroom procedures, and client advocacy, but can involve high caseloads and emotional challenges. Whether it is a good career choice depends on personal commitment to public service and resilience in a demanding environment.

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.

Is a public defender different than a lawyer?

A public defender is a type of lawyer employed by the government to represent individuals who cannot afford private attorneys in criminal cases. They have the same legal training and licensing as other lawyers but often work in high-volume, fast-paced environments, focusing on criminal defense. Both public defenders and private lawyers must pass the bar exam and maintain ongoing legal education.
What are popular job titles related to Public Defender In jobs in New York? For Public Defender In jobs in New York, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Public Defender In jobs in New York look for? The top searched job categories for Public Defender In jobs in New York are:
What cities in New York are hiring for Public Defender In jobs? Cities in New York with the most Public Defender In job openings:
Public Defender In jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Defender In job openings in New York as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% Internship, 71% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 5% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 77% In-person, and 23% Remote job distribution.
Criminal Defense Attorney (Former Prosecutors & Public Defenders Encouraged) - New Jersey

Criminal Defense Attorney (Former Prosecutors & Public Defenders Encouraged) - New Jersey

The Bianchi Law Group LLC

Parsippany, NJ • On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Criminal Defense Attorney
(Former Prosecutors & Public Defenders Encouraged)
Location: Parsippany, NJ (Hybrid)
Employment Type: Full-Time
Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-11 Years Preferred)
Compensation: $90,000 - $130,000, commensurate with experience and role scope
Position Overview
The Bianchi Law Group is seeking a Criminal Defense Attorney to join our trial-focused New Jersey litigation team.
This role is well-suited for former assistant prosecutors, public defenders, or experienced criminal litigators seeking meaningful courtroom exposure within a structured, collaborative firm.
We are not a volume practice. We are a trial practice - intentionally built for serious criminal defense work, strategic litigation, and professional growth within a team environment.
Our firm is led by former prosecutors and NJ Supreme Court-Certified Criminal Trial Attorneys who bring executive-level prosecutorial insight and advanced trial experience to every matter we handle.
This position involves handling criminal defense matters, domestic violence restraining order hearings, and municipal court cases, including DWI/DUI.
Core Values & Professional Commitment
We are grounded in Courage, Compassion, and Commitment - not as slogans, but as operational values.
  • Courage in trial advocacy
  • Compassion in client representation
  • Commitment to preparation, professionalism, and the advancement of the legal community

We believe criminal defense is not only courtroom advocacy, but service to the profession and community. Our attorneys are actively engaged in local and state bar associations and professional organizations, contributing to impact, leadership, and the advancement of the profession across New Jersey.
A Premier Landing Platform for Former Prosecutors
Built by Former Prosecutors
While this role is not exclusive to former prosecutors or public defenders, The Bianchi Law Group is uniquely positioned as a premier landing platform for prosecutors transitioning from public service to private criminal defense practice.
Our leadership and litigation team includes former prosecutors who have held the same responsibilities, pressures, and courtroom expectations. Among them is Bob Bianchi, a Governor- and Senate-confirmed former County Prosecutor, who brings executive-level prosecutorial leadership to the firm.
This shared background shapes how we practice, how we prepare, and how we support one another.
A Continuation of Service - Not a Departure
For many prosecutors, the transition to private practice raises an important question:
Can I continue to make meaningful impact while building a sustainable career outside of public service?
At our firm, the answer is yes.
We view criminal defense as a continuation of service - a commitment to constitutional advocacy, professional integrity, and responsible trial work.
A Community of Like-Minded Trial Attorneys
Former prosecutors who join our team find:
  • A collaborative environment built on shared courtroom experience
  • Structured, three-times-weekly litigation strategy sessions
  • Leadership from Certified Criminal Trial Attorneys
  • In-house appellate-level research support from the former Director of the Central Appellate Research Unit
  • Active participation in local and state bar associations

This is not a solo practice environment.
This is a team of trial attorneys who value preparation, integrity, and professional contribution.
The Value of the Huddle
Criminal defense attorneys are often on the hot seat in court when constitutional challenges, evidentiary disputes, or complex legal issues arise without warning. Preparation must extend beyond individual case review.
Our attorneys meet three times per week in a structured Litigation Huddle led by:
  • Bob Bianchi and David Bruno, both Certified Criminal Trial Attorneys by the New Jersey Supreme Court
  • Bob Bianchi, former Head County Prosecutor
  • The retired Director of the Central Appellate Research Unit of the NJ Appellate Division

These sessions are strategic working forums where cases are tested, arguments refined, and legal issues explored at an advanced level.
No attorney prepares for court alone. Strategy is challenged, strengthened, and sharpened collaboratively.
Responsibilities
  • Handle criminal defense cases from investigation through trial
  • Conduct jury trials, evidentiary hearings, and motion practice
  • Represent clients in domestic violence restraining order hearings
  • Appear in municipal court matters, including DWI/DUI cases
  • Develop defense strategy and prepare motions and witnesses
  • Participate in structured firm litigation strategy sessions

Qualifications
  • New Jersey Bar admission in good standing
  • 2-11 years of criminal litigation experience preferred
  • Meaningful courtroom and trial experience
  • Strong oral advocacy and cross-examination skills
  • Ability to manage a demanding caseload
  • Former prosecutor or public defender experience strongly valued
  • Certified Criminal Trial Attorney designation is a plus

Compensation & Benefits
  • Salary: $90,000 - $130,000 (commensurate with experience and scope)
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
  • 401(k) with employer contribution
  • Additional compensation through case origination

Apply