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Public Defender Salary 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 ...

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Public Defender Salary information

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$28K

$107.5K

$184.5K

How much do public defender salary jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for public defender salary 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.

Can a lawyer make $1 million a year?

Public defenders typically do not earn $1 million annually, as their salaries are usually set by government pay scales and are lower than private sector or specialized legal roles. High earnings in law generally come from private practice, corporate law, or senior positions requiring extensive experience and client base. Achieving a $1 million salary as a public defender is highly unlikely due to the nature of government-funded salaries and job structure.

What is the average salary of a public defender?

The average salary of a public defender in the United States typically ranges from $50,000 to $80,000 per year, depending on factors such as location, experience, and jurisdiction. In some areas, entry-level public defenders may start at around $45,000, while those with more experience or working in high-cost-of-living cities can earn upwards of $100,000. Benefits, such as health insurance and retirement plans, are commonly included as part of the compensation package.

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

AspectPublic Defender SalaryCriminal Defense Attorney Salary
Required CredentialsJuris Doctor (JD), State Bar LicenseJuris Doctor (JD), State Bar License
Work EnvironmentGovernment offices, public sectorPrivate law firms or solo practice
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, public sectorPrivate clients, law firms
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Public Defender Salary and Criminal Defense Attorney Salary both require a Juris Doctor degree and a state license. Public defenders work primarily in government settings, representing clients who cannot afford private attorneys, while criminal defense attorneys in the private sector serve individual clients. Salary ranges vary based on experience, location, and employer type, but understanding these differences helps clarify career paths in criminal law.

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 higher compensation through overtime or additional responsibilities.

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

What are some common challenges public defenders face in managing their caseloads, and how do they navigate these challenges?

Public defenders often handle a high volume of cases simultaneously, which can be challenging due to limited time and resources. They must prioritize urgent matters, maintain strong organizational skills, and communicate effectively with clients, courts, and colleagues. Many public defender offices provide mentorship, regular case reviews, and collaborative team structures to help attorneys manage their workloads and deliver effective legal representation. Embracing these support systems and developing efficient work habits are key to succeeding in this demanding yet rewarding role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Public Defender, and why are they important?

To excel as a Public Defender, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, state bar admission, and strong legal research, litigation, and criminal law expertise. Familiarity with legal research databases, case management systems, and courtroom technology is essential. Exceptional communication, empathy, and resilience help build trust with clients and navigate high-stress situations. These abilities are crucial for advocating effectively for indigent clients and ensuring fair representation in the justice system.

How much do public defenders make?

Public defenders in New Jersey typically earn an annual salary ranging from $60,000 to $90,000, depending on experience and location. Entry-level public defenders may start at lower salaries, while more experienced attorneys or those in higher-cost areas can earn higher wages. The role often requires a law degree, passing the bar exam, and strong courtroom skills.
More about Public Defender Salary jobs
What cities are hiring for Public Defender Salary jobs? Cities with the most Public Defender Salary job openings:
What states have the most Public Defender Salary jobs? States with the most job openings for Public Defender Salary jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Public Defender Salary jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Public Defender Salary jobs are:
Public Defender Salary jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Defender Salary job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% As Needed, 41% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 1% Contract, 10% Nights, and 2% Summer. Highlights an 85% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,533 per year, or $51.7 per hour.

Deputy Public Defender

St. Joseph County, IN

South Bend, IN • On-site

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

POSITION: Deputy Public Defender

DEPARTMENT: St. Joseph County Public Defenders

WORK SCHEDULE: Varies

JOB CATEGORY: Deputy Public Defender

SALARY: $44,407.00 yearly

STATUS: Part-time/Full Benefits

FLSA STATUS: Non-Exempt

DATES: 12/18/25 until filled

To perform this position successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function. The requirements listed in this document are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or abilities required. St. Joseph County provides reasonable accommodations to qualified employees and applicants with known disabilities who require accommodation to complete the application process or perform essential functions of the job unless those accommodations would present an undue hardship.

Benefits

Affordable Medical, Dental, and Vision Plans

Paid Time Off (PTO) with generous accruals

Employer Paid Life Insurance coverage

Short-Term and Long-Term Disability (STD/LTD)

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) for healthcare and dependent care

Gym Membership Discounts to encourage wellness

Employer-Funded PERF (Public Employees' Retirement Fund)

Access to additional voluntary benefits and resources

Responsibilities

Description: This position is part-time, non-exempt, and is covered under the Saint Joseph County Employee Policy Manual. Applicant must have experience level pursuant to State Public Defender guidelines.

Requires frequent visitations with clients who may be incarcerated at the St. Joseph County Jail.

Qualifications

Licensed Indiana Attorney in Good Standing with the Indiana Supreme Court. Public Defender qualifications available at the Public Defender Office.

Background Check: Must pass a criminal background investigation.

Apply