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Public Defender Service Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Montana

Public Defender

Billings, OK · On-site +1

Public Defenders work for their clients, protect constitutional rights, and ensure the system ... Public Service Loan Forgiveness - Employment with the State of Montana may qualify you to receive ...

State of Montana

Public Defender

Billings, OK · On-site +1

Public Defenders work for their clients, protect constitutional rights, and ensure the system ... Public Service Loan Forgiveness - Employment with the State of Montana may qualify you to receive ...

State of Montana

Public Defender

Billings, OK · On-site +1

Public Defenders work for their clients, protect constitutional rights, and ensure the system ... Public Service Loan Forgiveness - Employment with the State of Montana may qualify you to receive ...

TRG Defender

Staff Public Defender

Eagle Pass, TX · On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

TRGPD delivers client-centered services to address unique needs and limited resources available to ... 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

TRGPD delivers client-centered services to address unique needs and limited resources available to ... public defender office; are solution-oriented and creative; are able to work efficiently ...

State of Montana

Public Defender

Billings, OK · On-site +1

Public Defenders work for their clients, protect constitutional rights, and ensure the system ... Public Service Loan Forgiveness - Employment with the State of Montana may qualify you to receive ...

State of Montana

Public Defender

Ravalli, MT · On-site +1

Public Defenders work for their clients, protect constitutional rights, and ensure the system ... Public Service Loan Forgiveness - Employment with the State of Montana may qualify you to receive ...

State of Montana

Public Defender

Ravalli, MT · On-site

Public Defenders work for their clients, protect constitutional rights, and ensure the system ... Public Service Loan Forgiveness - Employment with the State of Montana may qualify you to receive ...

State of Montana

Conflict Public Defender

Helena, MT · On-site +1

Public Defenders work for their clients, protect constitutional rights, and ensure the system ... Public Service Loan Forgiveness - Employment with the State of Montana may qualify you to receive ...

State of Montana

Conflict Public Defender

Helena, MT · On-site +1

Public Defenders work for their clients, protect constitutional rights, and ensure the system ... Public Service Loan Forgiveness - Employment with the State of Montana may qualify you to receive ...

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Public Defender Service information

See salary details

$24.5K

$47K

$60.5K

How much do public defender service jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for public defender service in the United States is $47,045.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,000.00 and $59,000.00 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, a state bar license, and a solid grounding in criminal law and trial procedures. Familiarity with case management systems, legal research databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis, and courtroom presentation tools is crucial. Outstanding communication, resilience, and negotiation skills enable effective advocacy for clients facing challenging circumstances. These skills and qualities are essential to ensure fair representation, protect clients' rights, and navigate the demands of a high-volume caseload.

What are the most common challenges faced by public defenders and how can they be managed?

Public defenders often handle high caseloads and work with limited resources, which can make it challenging to devote ample time to each client. Additionally, they may represent clients facing significant adversity, requiring strong advocacy and empathy. Effective time management and prioritization, seeking support from colleagues, and leveraging available training opportunities can help manage these challenges and ensure clients receive quality representation.

What is a Public Defender Service?

A Public Defender Service is a government-funded organization that provides legal representation to individuals who cannot afford to hire a private attorney, typically in criminal cases. Public defenders are licensed attorneys who advocate for their clients throughout the legal process, ensuring their rights are protected. The service helps uphold the principle that everyone is entitled to a fair trial, regardless of their financial status. Public Defender Services are commonly found in many countries and play a critical role in the justice system.

What is the difference between Public Defender Service vs Public Defender?

AspectPublic Defender ServicePublic Defender
CredentialsLaw degree, bar admission, legal experienceLaw degree, bar admission, legal experience
Work EnvironmentGovernment agency, offices, courtroomsGovernment agency, offices, courtrooms
Employer & IndustryState or federal governmentState or local government
Common Search IntentLegal defense for indigent clientsLegal defense for indigent clients

Both Public Defender Service and Public Defender roles involve providing legal defense to those who cannot afford private attorneys. The main difference lies in the specific agency or jurisdiction; Public Defender Service often refers to federal or specialized agencies, while Public Defender typically refers to state or local government offices. Both roles require similar credentials and work environments, focusing on defending indigent clients in court.

More about Public Defender Service jobs
What cities are hiring for Public Defender Service jobs? Cities with the most Public Defender Service job openings:
What states have the most Public Defender Service jobs? States with the most job openings for Public Defender Service jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Public Defender Service jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Public Defender Service jobs are:
Public Defender Service jobs near you

Federal Public Defender

Federal Public Defender

Kansas City, MO • On-site

$197K/yr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

POSITION VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT

FEDERAL PUBLIC DEFENDER

WESTERN DISTRICT OF MISSOURI

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit is accepting applications [under authority of 18 U.S.C. 3006A(g)(2)(A)] from all qualified persons for the position of Federal Public Defender for the Western District of Missouri headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri. The incumbent Federal Public Defender will retire on December 31, 2026. The term of appointment is four years; annual salary will be equal to the salary of the U.S. Attorney for the district, currently $197,200. The Federal Public Defender provides federal criminal defense services to individuals unable to afford counsel. An applicant must: (1) be admitted to practice before the highest court of at least one state; (2) be a member in good standing of every other state bar of which he/she is a member; (3) have a minimum of five years criminal practice experience, preferably with significant criminal trial experience; (4) have administrative expertise; (5) have a reputation for integrity; and (6) have a commitment to the representation of those unable to afford counsel. Federal Public Defenders may not engage in the private practice of law and are subject to judiciary financial disclosure requirements. A background investigation is required.

Application forms may be obtained from the Clerk of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Missouri at www.mow.uscourts.gov, or the Circuit Executive=s Office in St. Louis, Missouri by e-mail at CE8employment@ca8.uscourts.gov or by phone 314-244-2600. Applications should be submitted only by the applicant personally and should indicate the applicant=s willingness to serve if selected. Applications should be submitted to Ms. Millie B. Adams, Circuit Executive, 111 South 10th Street, Suite 26.325, St. Louis, Missouri 63102-1116. The position will remain open until filled. The U.S. Courts are equal opportunity employers. Application must be received by July 15, 2026.

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