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Public Defender Service Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

This VISTA project, Defending Communities in Service, will build sustainable community relationships and data systems and practices that allow participating public defender offices to more ...

CS Therapist II

VA · On-site

$76K - $133K/yr

There will also be close collaboration with criminal justice and community partners (including probation and pre-trial services, the courts, and the Public Defender's Office) to provide treatment ...

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Public Defender Service information

See Washington salary details

$27.7K

$53.3K

$68.5K

How much do public defender service jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for public defender service in Washington is $53,283.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,000.00 and $66,800.00 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 Washington? For Public Defender Service jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Public Defender Service job openings in Washington 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 $53,283 per year, or $25.6 per hour.

PUBLIC DEFENDER INTAKE SPECIALIST I

State of Maryland - OPD District Operations

Charles, MD • On-site

$17.75 - $24/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Introduction

This is a repost. Previous applicants do not need to reapply.\r\n\r\nAs a State agency, Maryland Office of the Public Defender (MOPD) is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. MOPD is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, physical or mental disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status or genetic information.\r\n\r\n\r\nAll applicants must be able to communicate with client sand visitors and possess the ability to complete tasks in a fast-paced work environment. Applicants must be able to work in various settings. MOPD is further committed to providing equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services ,programs and activities by modifying or adjusting the job application processor the job or work environment to make reasonable accommodations to the known applicant or employee to enable the applicant or employee be considered for the position they desire; to perform the essential functions of the position in question; or to enjoy equal benefits and privileges of employment as are enjoyed by other similarly situated employees without disabilities, unless the accommodation imposes an undue hardship. Applicants must be able to operate a computer and other office equipment. Applicants must have access to a motor vehicle or be able to navigate public transportation. If a reasonable accommodation is needed, please contact Tawanda Jackson, Human Resources Supervisor, 410-767-8503 tawandal.jackson@maryland.gov.\r\n\r\n\r\nThe Office of the Public Defender is seeking detail-oriented applicants with customer service and data entry skills for full-time, entry level, Public Defender Intake Specialist I position.The position requires the ability to work in a fast-paced environment in our Charles County office. Occasional travel betweenoffices is required as well as travel to the courthouse and county detention center for clientinterviews. Bilingual applicants, who are fluent in English and Spanish, are encouraged to apply.\r\n\r\n\r\n

GRADE

ASTD8

LOCATION OF POSITION

200 Kent Ave, Suite 102, LaPlata, MD 20646\r\n23110 Leonard Hall Dr #2059, Leonardtown, MD 20650\r\n

Main Purpose of Job

A Public Defender Intake Specialist I is the intermediate level of work determining client eligibility for representation by the Office of the Public Defender and obtaining initial client information for preparation of case files. Employees in this classification do not supervise other positions.\r\nEmployees in this classification receive moderate supervision from a Public Defender Intake Specialist Supervisor or an administrator. Work is performed at local public defender offices, jails, detention centers, prisons and the courts of Maryland.\r\n

POSITION DUTIES

The PublicDefender Intake Specialist I is the first interaction clients have with the Office of the Public Defender. Professionalism, people skills, and empathy area must. Intake Specialists are responsible for the creation of the file for the attorney, creating and mailing assignment letters to clients and attorneys, and filing entries of appearance with the court. Additionally, the IntakeSpecialist I must answer phones, greet the public, retrieve and enter data. Public Defender IntakeSpecialist I will also help with organization of casefiles and process discovery. Assist co-workers when needed.\r\n

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education: Graduation from an accredited high school or possession of a high school equivalency certificate.\r\nExperience: Six months of experience interviewing persons for the purpose of obtaining and verifying background or financial information.\r\nNotes:\r\n1.Candidates may substitute additional experience interviewing persons for the purpose of obtaining background or financial information on a year-for-year basis for the required education.\r\n2. Candidates may substitute 60 credit hours from an accreditedcollege or university for the required experience.\r\n3. Candidates may substitute U.S. Armed Forces militaryservice experience as a non-commissioned officer inCompliance Inspection and Support classifications orCompliance Inspection and Support specialty codes in theInspection, Investigation, Enforcement, and Compliance field of work on a year-for-year basis for the required experience.\r\n

DESIRED OR PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Preferred Qualifications:\r\nProficiency indata entry, strong communication skills and experience working in a fast pace retail or office environment. Customer service experience and a stronginterest in working with indigent defendants and their families.Experience working with MDEC Documents.\r\n

LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS AND CERTIFICATIONS

Employees in this classification may be assigned duties which require the operation of a motor vehicle. Employees assigned such duties will be required to possess a motor vehicle operator's license valid in the State of Maryland. \r\n

SELECTION PROCESS

Applicants who meet the minimumqualifications will be admitted to the examination for thisclassification. Successful candidates will be ranked as BEST QUALIFIED,BETTER QUALIFIED, OR QUALIFIED and placed on the employment (eligible) list forat least one year.\r\n

EXAMINATION PROCESS

The examination will consist of arating of your education, training and experience related to the requirementsof the position. You may be required to complete a qualificationssupplement, or the rating may be based on your application. Therefore, itis important that you provide complete and accurate information on yourapplication. Report all experience and education that is related to thisposition.\r\n

BENEFITS

STATE OF MARYLAND BENEFITS\r\n

FURTHER INSTRUCTIONS

Online Applications Preferred. Please fax all paper applications and questionnaires to(410) 333-2260.Inquiries regarding applications and submitting paper applications can be directed to: Office of the Public Defender, Human Resources Division, 6 Saint Paul Street, Suite 1304, Baltimore, MD 21202; or by calling (410) 767-8500, toll free: 877-430-5187; TTY users call Maryland Relay Service 800-735-2258.\r\nPlease be sure to include your name, identification number (Easy ID#) and job announcement number on any documentation to ensure timely processing. A paper copy of the MD State application form and questionnaire can be downloaded from the link below.\r\nAs an equal opportunity employer, Maryland is committed to recruiting, retaining and promoting employees who are reflective of the State's diversity. We thank our Veterans for their service to our country and encourage them to apply. People with disabilities and bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply.\r\n

Employment Type: Full-Time