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Public Defender In Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Washoe County

DEPUTY PUBLIC DEFENDER

Reno, NV

$112K - $241K/yr

Attorneys in the Criminal Division represent clients at all stages of criminal proceedings with an ... The Public Defender's Office offers a comprehensive training program and a supportive team ...

Ulster County

Assistant Public Defender III

Kingston, NY · On-site

$105K/yr

An employee in this class assists the County Public Defender in providing legal representation, without charge and by order of a court, to indigent persons assigned to the Public Defender pursuant to ...

Washoe County

DEPUTY ALTERNATE PUBLIC DEFENDER

Reno, NV · On-site

$112K - $146K/yr

The Alternate Public Defender is a separate office from the Public Defender. Alternate Public ... Attorneys in the Criminal Division represent clients at all stages of criminal proceedings with an ...

County of Alameda

Deputy Public Defender

Oakland, CA · On-site

$98.53 - $136.35/hr

In 2012, the office was named the "Best Law Firm" in the East Bay by the Alameda County Bar Association. For additional info, please visit: Alameda County Public Defenders THE POSITION: Deputy Public ...

Washoe County, NV

DEPUTY PUBLIC DEFENDER

Reno, NV · On-site

$112K - $241K/yr

Public Defender Opening Date: 12/24/2024 Position Information THE WASHOE COUNTY PUBLIC DEFENDER ... Attorneys in the Criminal Division represent clients at all stages of criminal proceedings with an ...

County of Santa Barbara

Public Defender

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$256K - $341K/yr

The Public Defender serves as the primary liaison to the County Executive Officer and Board of Supervisors and represents the Office in interactions with County departments, including the District ...

State of Montana

Public Defender

Helena, MT · On-site +1

OPD's work makes a difference for the people in our communities. Public Defenders work for their clients, protect constitutional rights, and ensure the system remains fair. We are proud of the work ...

State of Montana

Public Defender

Billings, OK · On-site +1

OPD's work makes a difference for the people in our communities. Public Defenders work for their clients, protect constitutional rights, and ensure the system remains fair. We are proud of the work ...

Washoe County, NV

DEPUTY ALTERNATE PUBLIC DEFENDER

Reno, NV · On-site

$112K - $146K/yr

Alternate Public Defender Opening Date: 03/06/2026 Position Information THE WASHOE COUNTY ALTERNATE ... Attorneys in the Criminal Division represent clients at all stages of criminal proceedings with an ...

State of Montana

Public Defender

Billings, OK · On-site +1

OPD's work makes a difference for the people in our communities. Public Defenders work for their clients, protect constitutional rights, and ensure the system remains fair. We are proud of the work ...

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Public Defender In information

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$28K

$107.5K

$184.5K

How much do public defender in jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for public defender in 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 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.
More about Public Defender In jobs
What cities are hiring for Public Defender In jobs? Cities with the most Public Defender In job openings:
What states have the most Public Defender In jobs? States with the most job openings for Public Defender In jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Public Defender In jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Public Defender In jobs are:
Public Defender In jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Defender In job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Locum Tenens, 17% Full Time, 1% Contract, and 8% Summer. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,533 per year, or $51.7 per hour.
DEPUTY PUBLIC DEFENDER

DEPUTY PUBLIC DEFENDER

Washoe County

Reno, NV

$112K - $241K/yr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

Position Information THE WASHOE COUNTY PUBLIC DEFENDER'S OFFICE is accepting applications for the position of Deputy Public Defender in the Criminal Division. Attorneys in the Criminal Division represent clients at all stages of criminal proceedings with an emphasis on holistic defense. Prior experience and demonstrated interests in criminal defense and/or serving vulnerable populations are preferred but not required.

The Public Defender's Office offers a comprehensive training program and a supportive team environment. The salary range starts at $112,694. Washoe County provides employer-paid contributions to PERS, health insurance, and a wide range of other competitive benefits.

Our office is located in Reno, NV at the base of the Sierra Nevada Mountains and less than one hour from beautiful Lake Tahoe A successful candidate must be fully admitted to the Nevada bar on or before the start date. Nevada does not have reciprocity with any other jurisdictions. The Washoe County Public Defender's Office offers competitive salary and benefits in the public service sector in Northern Nevada.

Salary for the entry level position starts at $112,694.40 annually. Minimum Qualifications EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING REQUIREMENTS Graduation from a recognized law school and some experience in the practice of law; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience. LICENSE OR CERTIFICATE Current membership in the Bar in the State of Nevada

A valid driver's license is required at the time of appointment. DEPUTY PUBLIC DEFENDER I Graduation from a recognized law school and some experience in the practice of law; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience. DEPUTY PUBLIC DEFENDER II Graduation from a recognized law school and one year of full-time experience in the practice of law equivalent to that of a Deputy Public Defender I in Washoe County; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience.

DEPUTY PUBLIC DEFENDER III Graduation from a recognized law school and two years of full-time experience in the practice of law equivalent to that of a Deputy Public Defender II in Washoe County; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience. DEPUTY PUBLIC DEFENDER IV Graduation from a recognized law school and two years of full-time experience in the practice of law equivalent to that of a Deputy Public Defender III in Washoe County; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience. Candidates must be licensed to practice law in the State of Nevada or eligible for immediate admission to the Nevada bar.

Training provided in a team-based atmosphere. Conditions of Employment This is a fulltime government position and salary range, depending on experience, is $112,694.40 - $241,529.60 and comes with excellent benefits including health insurance, paid vacation and sick leave, and employer-paid public employee retirement. For a full review of benefits visit https://www.washoecounty.us/humanresources/Benefits/index.php

Reference and background checks will be conducted on selected applicants. What Happens Next To apply, please submit a letter of interest and resume to Joseph Goodnight, Chief Deputy Public Defender, at jgoodnight@washoecounty.gov.

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