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Public Defender Service Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Brazos County, Texas

Juvenile Public Defender

Bryan, TX · On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

This position provides a full range of legal services to indigent defendants in the assigned felony ... The essential duties of a juvenile defender in a public defender's office involve providing legal ...

Brazos County

Juvenile Public Defender

Bryan, TX · On-site

$95K/yr

This position provides a full range of legal services to indigent defendants in the assigned felony ... The essential duties of a juvenile defender in a public defender's office involve providing legal ...

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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 22, 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.

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 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 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, 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,829 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

Assistant Public Defender - Misdemeanor Division

Harris County

Houston, TX • On-site

$61K - $82K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Harris County rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 122 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

416th of 848 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Position Description About The Harris County Public Defender's Office: The Harris County Public Defender's Office is a holistic, client-centered office committed to providing high-quality representation to indigent clients. We are seeking dedicated attorneys who are passionate about indigent defense and committed to advancing justice for our clients and community. Position Overview: The Harris County Public Defender's Office has an opening for an Assistant Public Defender in the Misdemeanor Division of the Trial Bureau.

The Assistant Public Defender provides holistic, client-centered representation to individuals charged with misdemeanor offenses in Harris County. Duties and Responsibilities: Provide zealous, client-centered representation in the County Criminal Courts at Law while maintaining the highest level of professionalism. Conduct legal research; analyze and interpret legal issues; and draft motions, memoranda, and other pleadings, subject to supervisory review.

Collaborate with investigators and support staff to prepare case files, gather evidence, and develop strong defense strategies. Work collaboratively with colleagues to develop and implement defense strategies tailored to each client's individual needs and goals. Foster a respectful, team-oriented environment with clients, colleagues, and court personnel, while supporting co-workers and contributing to a positive office culture.

Partner with other divisions and interdisciplinary team members within the office to provide holistic representation and address clients' broader needs. Advise and communicate regularly with clients regarding case strategy, legal options, and case developments, ensuring clients are informed and actively involved in decision-making. Maintain consistent communication with clients, witnesses, and opposing counsel, including regular jail visits to ensure incarcerated clients remain informed and supported.

Prepare cases for hearings and trial; litigate cases from appointment through disposition; examine witnesses; present evidence and legal arguments; and conduct pretrial hearings, negotiations, and plea discussions. Participate in office trainings, professional development programs, and continuing legal education opportunities. Perform other duties as assigned in support of the mission of the office.

Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer https://hrrm.harriscountytx.gov/Pages/EqualEmploymentOpportunityPlan.aspx If you need special services or accommodations, please call (713) 274-5445 or email ADACoordinator@bmd.hctx.net. This position is subject to a criminal history check. Only relevant convictions will be considered and, even when considered, may not automatically disqualify the candidate

Requirements Education and Experience: Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school. Licensure: Current license to practice law with the State Bar of Texas. Member in good standing with the State Bar of Texas

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Good written and oral communications skills. Effective organizational and time management skills. The ability to manage a demanding caseload as assigned from the courts.

The ability to work in a team environment. NOTE: Qualifying education, experience, knowledge, and skills must be documented on your job application. You may attach a resume to the application as supporting documentation but ONLY information stated on the application will be used for consideration.

"See Resume" will not be accepted for qualifications. General Information Position Type and Typical Hours of Work: Regular Full-time Monday - Friday | 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Salary: Depends on Qualifications Based on 26 Pay Periods Plus, benefits Employment may be contingent on passing a drug screen and meeting other standards. Due to a high volume of applications positions may close prior to the advertised closing date or at the discretion of the Hiring Department.

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About Harris County

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Harris County is the third largest county in the United States with more than 4.7 million residents. There are four precincts in Harris County. The four elected commissioners, along with an elected county judge, serve as members of the Harris County Commissioners Court, the administrative head of the county's government.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US

Year founded

2000

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