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Public Defender In Jobs (NOW HIRING)

State of Montana

Public Defender

Butte, 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

Missoula, 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 ...

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 ...

Montana

Public Defender

Butte, 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 ...

TRG Defender

Staff Public Defender

Eagle Pass, TX · On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

Texas RioGrande Public Defender is hiring staff attorney defenders for its brand-new public defender office in Eagle Pass, Texas. This opportunity is high-impact-the jurisdictions were recently ...

Montana

Public Defender

Missoula, 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 ...

State of Montana

Public Defender

Ravalli, 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

Butte, 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

Butte, 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 ...

Clark County

CHIEF DEPUTY PUBLIC DEFENDER

Las Vegas, NV · On-site

$64.89 - $101.59/hr

Public Defender: Chief Deputy Public Defenders assigned to the Public Defender's Office will ... NOTE: A resume is required in addition to the completed employment application. Applications ...

State of Montana

Public Defender

Silverbow, 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 ...

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All JobsPublic Defender In Jobs

Public Defender In information

See salary details

$28K

$107.5K

$184.5K

How much do public defender in jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 28, 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.

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.

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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 97% Full Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,533 per year, or $51.7 per hour.

Assistant Public Defender II

Public Defender Council, Georgia

Covington, GA

$54K - $73K/yr

Other

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Alcovy/Newton Circuit - Assistant Public Defender I or II

The Alcovy Judicial Circuit Public Defender's Office is seeking to hire an Assistant Public Defender I or II position in the Newton County Office.  The primary responsibilities include representing indigent clients with a criminal case(s) in both Superior and Juvenile Courts from arrest to trial and appeal if necessary. Applicants must have the required skills to perform the responsibilities for the position. Applicants must be a current member in good standing with the State Bar of Georgia, or be waiting on the Georgia Bar exam results. Interviews will be scheduled expeditiously. Interested applicants should apply on Team Georgia Careers and email your cover letter, resume, and at least three professional references to Jennifer Arndt at jarndt@co.newton.ga.us.

Description of Duties: The Assistant Public Defender will provide competent and zealous representation and advocacy to indigent clients. This position performs beginning-level professional legal work and may assist in cases of routine complexity. To be considered for this position, candidates must possess a Juris Doctorate from an accredited college or university and a license to practice law in the State of Georgia. Performs other related duties as required.

Job Description:  Assistant Public Defender I

Job Description:  Assistant Public Defender II

Juris Doctorate from an accredited college or university AND license to practice law in the State of Georgia OR eligibility to sit for the next Georgia Bar examination OR reciprocity AND One year of relevant legal experience OR One year of experience required at the lower level Attorney 1 (LEP020).
Additional Information
  • Agency Logo:
  • Requisition ID: LEG01DN
  • Number of Openings: 1
  • Shift: Day Job

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