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Public Defender Salaries Jobs (NOW HIRING)

TRG Defender

Staff Public Defender

Eagle Pass, TX

$85K - $110K/yr

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

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 ...

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Public Defender Salaries information

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$47K

$78.6K

$132K

How much do public defender salaries jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for public defender salaries in the United States is $78,587.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,000.00 and $86,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is $900 an hour a lot for a lawyer?

For a public defender, earning $900 an hour is significantly higher than typical salaries, as public defenders usually earn an annual salary ranging from $50,000 to $80,000. Such high hourly rates are more common for private attorneys with specialized expertise or in high-demand legal fields, not public defense roles. Public defenders generally work on a salary basis and do not charge clients hourly rates.

How much do top public defenders make?

Top public defenders can earn salaries exceeding $100,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills, or working in high-cost regions. Salaries vary by jurisdiction and level of experience, with some earning additional benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

Do lawyers make $500,000 a year?

Public defenders typically do not earn $500,000 annually; their salaries are generally lower and vary by location and experience. Most public defenders earn between $50,000 and $100,000 per year, with higher salaries possible in large jurisdictions or with extensive experience. Achieving a $500,000 salary as a public defender is uncommon and usually requires additional roles or private practice work.

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

AspectPublic Defender SalariesCriminal Defense Attorney Salaries
Required CredentialsJuris Doctor (JD), State Bar LicenseJuris Doctor (JD), State Bar License
Work EnvironmentPublic sector, government offices, courtsPrivate practice, law firms, solo practices
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, public defender officesPrivate law firms, solo practitioners, corporate clients

Public Defender Salaries typically involve working for government agencies providing legal defense for indigent clients, often with standardized pay scales. Criminal Defense Attorneys in private practice may have higher earning potential but face variable income based on case load and client payments. Both roles require a JD and bar licensure, but their work environments and income structures differ significantly.

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, often including internships or clerkships. Competition can be high due to limited positions, and strong advocacy, communication, and courtroom skills are essential for success in the role.
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Public Defender Salaries jobs near you

Assistant Federal Public Defender (Trial)

Federal Public Defender

San Antonio, TX • On-site

$57K - $77K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

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. 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 prior to entry on duty. Appointment is subject to a satisfactory background investigation, including but not limited to an FBI name and fingerprint check and an IRS tax check.
Duties. An Assistant Federal Public Defender will represent clients charged with federal criminal offenses and clients involved in other matters covered under the Criminal Justice Act. Regular responsibilities include working with clients; digesting large case files and investigative materials; developing litigation strategies; drafting pleadings; conducting evidentiary hearings and trials; working with experts and other witnesses; and supervising teams of investigators, mitigation specialists, paralegals, and legal assistants. The position requires travel for investigation, litigation, and training, and may involve foreign travel. Federal Public Defender attorneys may not engage in the private practice of law.
Selection Criteria. The successful applicant will have strong writing and oral advocacy skills, an established capacity or clearly demonstrated aptitude for excellence in criminal defense practice, a commitment to the representation of indigent accused people, and a reputation for integrity. Applicants must also possess the ability to communicate effectively with clients, witnesses, colleagues, staff, and court and agency personnel as part of their employment. 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. Three to five years of federal criminal trial experience is preferred. Spanish-language fluency 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).
The Federal Public Defender is an equal-opportunity employer.

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