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Public Defender Service Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

TRG Defender

Felony Qualified Public Defender

Goliad, TX · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

TRGPD delivers client-centered services to address unique needs and limited resources available to ... public defender office; have strong academic credentials; are solution-oriented and creative; are ...

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All JobsPublic Defender Service JobsPublic Defender Service Jobs in Texas

Public Defender Service information

See Texas salary details

$22.8K

$43.8K

$56.4K

How much do public defender service jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for public defender service in Texas is $43,829.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,900.00 and $55,000.00 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 Texas? For Public Defender Service jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Public Defender Service jobs in Texas look for? The top searched job categories for Public Defender Service jobs in Texas are:
Public Defender Service jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Defender Service job openings in Texas 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 $43,829 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

Assistant Federal Public Defender (Appellate)

Federal Public Defender

San Antonio, TX • On-site

$77K - $182K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Position Announcement 26-31
ASSISTANT FEDERAL PUBLIC DEFENDER (Appellate)
Office of the Federal Public Defender
Western District of Texas (San Antonio)
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, preferably, or another office within the Western District of Texas. 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, the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, and the U.S. Supreme Court within one year after employment begins. At least three years of specialized experience is preferred. Appointment is subject to a satisfactory background investigation, including but not limited to an FBI name and fingerprint check.
Duties. An assistant federal public defender (Appellate) represents clients charged with and convicted of federal criminal offenses under the Criminal Justice Act. Regular responsibilities include working with clients; managing a caseload; reviewing complex case files and records on appeal; identifying relevant legal issues; providing trial support; preparing pleadings, briefings, and petitions; and maintaining in-depth and current knowledge of appellate practices and case law. The position requires travel for oral arguments. Federal public defender attorneys may not engage in the private practice of law.
Selection Criteria. The successful applicant will have strong legal research and word processing skills, the ability to analyze legal issues from complex records, and write clearly and concisely. Applicants should also have an established capacity or clearly demonstrated aptitude for excellence in criminal defense practice, a commitment to the representation of indigent accused persons, and a reputation for integrity. Applicants must be able to communicate effectively with clients, witnesses, colleagues, and court and agency personnel. 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. Appellate writing experience or experience in handling federal criminal cases 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).
How to Apply.
  • Cover letter, resume and representative writing sample.
  • Three professional references with their contact information.
  • Form AO-78 - All sections of the AO-78 must be completed in full, with dates in the following format: mm/dd/yyyy.
  • Apply at Openings at Federal Public Defender, Western District of Texas. Attach your cover letter, resume, references and the AO-78 in one pdf. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

The Federal Public Defender is an equal-opportunity employer.

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