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Public Defender Service Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

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Public Defender Service information

See Florida salary details

$18.3K

$35.2K

$45.2K

How much do public defender service jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for public defender service in Florida is $35,156.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33,600.00 and $44,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

Is it easy to get hired as a public defender?

Getting hired as a public defender can be competitive, as it often requires a law degree, passing the bar exam, and relevant legal experience. Many positions also require strong communication, courtroom skills, and a commitment to public service, which can influence hiring decisions. The process may involve multiple interviews and background checks, but dedicated legal professionals with relevant qualifications have good opportunities in this field.

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.

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 are popular job titles related to Public Defender Service jobs in Florida? For Public Defender Service jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Public Defender Service jobs in Florida look for? The top searched job categories for Public Defender Service jobs in Florida are:
Public Defender Service jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Defender Service job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,156 per year, or $16.9 per hour.

PUBLIC DEFENDER'S OFFICE, 19TH CIRCUIT- ASSISTANT PUBLIC DEFENDER - 21008891

State of Florida

Fort Pierce, FL

$80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

State Of Florida rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 188 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

48th of 50 rated states

Job description

Requisition No: 872211 

Agency: Justice Administrative Commission

Working Title: PUBLIC DEFENDER'S OFFICE, 19TH CIRCUIT- ASSISTANT PUBLIC DEFENDER - 21008891

 Pay Plan: Pub.DefndrsJAC

Position Number: 21008891 

Salary:  $80,000.00 

Posting Closing Date: 09/16/2026 

Total Compensation Estimator Tool

PUBLIC DEFENDER’S OFFICE NINETEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT

PUBLIC DEFENDER'S OFFICE, 19TH CIRCUIT-ASSISTANT PUBLIC DEFENDER – 008891

WE NEED YOU!

Experienced trial lawyers are needed for the 19th Judicial Circuit Public Defenders Office. We have it all! CLE seminars, top-rated computer and video technology, competitive salaries, and full benefits. A career, not a job. Salary beginning at $80,000.

Must have a minimum of 3 years’ experience and be a member in good standing with The Florida Bar, license required. Visit us at www.pd19.org EEOC..

 

Benefits

  •   State Group Health Insurance (premiums as low as $8.34 a month)
  •    Enrollment in the Florida Retirement System
  • à $25,000.00 life insurance policy                                    
  • à Annual leave - 13 days per year, increases with length of service
  • à Sick leave - 13 days per year
  • à Paid holidays – 13 days per year
  • à Short-term disability insurance - paid by the State of Florida
  • à State retirement benefits - vesting after 8 years in pension plan or 1 year in the investment plan
  • à Optional employee paid supplement insurance plans available (vision, dental, cancer, hospitalization, and disability)
  • à Deferred Retirement Option Plan (DROP) - Applies to pension plan members, and will result in a lump sum payment of accumulated benefits, for a period of up to eight years
  • à Deferred compensation – option of saving portion of monthly salary in a tax-sheltered account
  • à Opportunities to earn CLE credits and attend a variety of conferences
  • à Florida Bar dues paid by the office every year

Hiring for Ft. Pierce (St. Lucie County), Stuart (Martin County), Vero (Indian River County), Okeechobee (Okeechobee County)

To apply, email resume and cover letter to: Didi.Dickson@pd19.org

Honorable Diamond R. Litty

216 South Second Street

Ft. Pierce, FL 34950

If you are a retiree of the Florida Retirement System (FRS), please check with the FRS at 1-844-377-1888 on how your current benefits may be affected if you are re-employed with the State of Florida. Your current retirement benefits may be canceled, suspended, or deemed ineligible depending upon the date of your retirement.

Candidates requiring a reasonable accommodation, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act, must notify the agency hiring authority and/or People First Service Center (1-866-663-4735). Notification to the hiring authority must be made in advance to allow sufficient time to provide the accommodation.

The State of Florida supports a Drug-Free workplace. All employees are subject to reasonable suspicion drug testing in accordance with Section 112.0455, F.S., Drug-Free Workplace Act.

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