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Public Defender Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

State of Indiana

Chief Child Services Attorney

Muncie, IN · On-site

$93K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... and public defenders to build relationships and share information which impacts DCS cases such as statutory, appellate or policy changes. * Advise Department of Child Services staff on various ...

Ebbinghouse Law Group

Tax Professional

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

Description Tax Resolution - Enrolled Agent, CPA, or Attorney Experienced Tax Resolution Professional If you have experience in Tax Resolution as an Enrolled Agent, CPA, or Attorney who loves helping ...

State of Indiana

General Counsel

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... in defending the Commission's orders on appeal in both the federal and the state appellate courts. The General Counsel is also responsible for contract formation and review, responses to public ...

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Showing results 41-60

All JobsPublic Defender JobsPublic Defender Jobs in Indiana

Public Defender information

See Indiana salary details

$26.6K

$102.3K

$175.6K

How much do public defender jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for public defender in Indiana is $102,324.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,900.00 and $127,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a public defender?

To thrive as a Public Defender, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, bar admission, and a deep understanding of criminal law and courtroom procedures. Proficiency in legal research databases (like Westlaw or LexisNexis), case management systems, and trial preparation tools is essential. Outstanding communication, empathy, resilience, and negotiation skills are vital for connecting with clients and advocating effectively. These skills ensure that clients receive a robust defense, uphold justice, and navigate the legal system equitably.

How to become a public defender?

Public defenders must be licensed to practice law by their state bar. To work as a public defender, complete your bachelor’s degree, take the LSAT exam, and attend law school to earn a J.D. degree. Focus your studies on criminal defense law, and hone your research skills. During your law school summers take internships in public defender offices. You can also intern in a prosecutor’s office or a public interest firm to gain experience for a career as a public defender. After you complete law school you must pass your state’s bar exam. Most states also require legal professionals to pass the Multistate Professional Responsibility Exam (MPRE). Once you are licensed to practice law in your state, you can apply to public defender offices.

What is a public defender?

A Public Defender is a lawyer appointed by the court to represent individuals who cannot afford to hire a private attorney in criminal cases. Their primary responsibility is to ensure that all defendants receive fair legal representation, regardless of their financial status. Public Defenders work to protect the rights of their clients, provide legal advice, and represent them in court. They handle a variety of cases, from minor offenses to serious felonies, and are crucial in upholding the justice system's commitment to due process.

What are some common challenges faced by public defenders in their daily work?

Public defenders often manage large caseloads and tight deadlines, which can make it challenging to dedicate ample time to each client. They frequently work with clients who may have limited trust in the legal system or face complex social and personal issues. Collaboration with investigators, social workers, and other attorneys is essential for gathering evidence and building strong defenses. Despite these challenges, public defenders play a crucial role in ensuring fair representation and upholding justice for those who cannot afford private counsel.

What is the difference between Public Defender vs Criminal Defense Attorney?

AspectPublic DefenderCriminal Defense Attorney
CredentialsJurisdiction-specific law degree, bar license, often government employmentLaw degree, bar license, private practice or firm affiliation
Work EnvironmentGovernment offices, courtrooms, public service settingsPrivate law firms, solo practices, or corporate offices
EmployerGovernment agencies or public defender officesPrivate clients or law firms
Common UsageRepresent indigent defendants in criminal casesRepresent clients in criminal cases, including those who can afford private counsel

Public defenders and criminal defense attorneys both handle criminal cases, but public defenders work for government agencies representing indigent clients, while criminal defense attorneys are private practitioners representing paying clients. The roles overlap in legal credentials and courtroom work but differ mainly in employment setting and client base.

More about Public Defender jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Public Defender jobs in Indiana?

The most popular types of Public Defender jobs in Indiana are:

What are popular job titles related to Public Defender jobs in Indiana?

For Public Defender jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Public Defender jobs in Indiana look for?

The top searched job categories for Public Defender jobs in Indiana are:

What cities in Indiana are hiring for Public Defender jobs?

Cities in Indiana with the most Public Defender job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Public Defender jobs in IN?

For Public Defender jobs in IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Public Defender jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Defender job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 83% In-person, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,324 per year, or $49.2 per hour.

Chief Child Services Attorney

State of Indiana

Muncie, IN • On-site

$93K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

State Of Indiana rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 186 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

43rd of 50 rated states

Job description

Work for Indiana
Begin a fulfilling career with the State of Indiana by joining one of the largest employers in the state, offering a range of opportunities across 60+ agencies. At the state, you'll find competitive compensation, a robust benefits package and a commitment to work-life balance. Most importantly, you'll have the chance to make a real and measurable impact on the lives of Hoosiers across Indiana.
About the Department of Child Services:
Join a group of passionate, dedicated public servants to support one of Indiana's most critical missions!
The Department of Child Services helps children who are victims of abuse or neglect and strengthens families through services that focus on family support and preservation. We pursue permanency for children and families through reunification, guardianship, and adoption. Our services also encompass foster care, child support, and transitional support for those adjusting to adulthood. Our culture is built upon our MVP foundation:
Mission: Champion Indiana's future by protecting children and strengthening families with compassion and determination.
Vision: Every child in Indiana thrives in a safe, loving, forever home.
Purpose: Ignite hope. Cultivate joy.
Role Overview:
The Chief Child Service Attorney operates with a high level of independence. Decisions are often made in crisis situations by the attorney and their team, directly impacting the safety and well-being of the children and families served. These decisions may also carry significant financial implications for the agency.
This position is in Muncie, Indiana, and will serve Delaware County, and surrounding counties as needed.
Indiana accepts the Uniform Bar Exam! Follow this link to learn about theUniform Bar Exam and state jurisdictions.
Salary:
This position traditionally starts at an annual salary of $93,002.00 but may be commensurate with education and job experience. Use our Compensation Calculator to view the total compensation package.
A Day in the Life:
Responsibilities include:
  • Display competency in all areas of litigation conducted at the local office level, including CHINS, TPR, CAPTA administrative appeals, foster care licensing hearings, subsidy matters, and ancillary matters such as guardianship, custody, and adoption.
  • Serve as a liaison between Central Office legal management and direct reports.
  • Monitor staff caseloads, delegate tasks, and supervise the work of the Deputy Chief Counsel and other direct reports.
  • Assist with recruitment; select, onboard, and assist in training of employees to ensure expectations are met and to promote staff development; complete performance management tasks including appraisals and reviews; work with HR and supervision to address staff disciplinary issues as needed.
  • Work closely with internal case management partners such as the Regional Manager to build strong legal/case management relationships and work toward mutual permanency goals; communicate with external partners such as Courts, CASA/GAL and public defenders to build relationships and share information which impacts DCS cases such as statutory, appellate or policy changes.
  • Advise Department of Child Services staff on various program and legal areas as assigned.
  • Identify goals and performance metrics, and monitor metrics identified by the agency to ensure best outcomes for cases on regional caseload.
  • Participate in committees, groups, or events such as Continuous Improvement and Lean events.
  • Provide input to the Office of the Attorney General regarding regional appeals and appellate briefs.
  • Supervise work of contract attorneys if any are assigned within the region.
  • Conduct legal trainings for Family Case Managers, attorneys and others as requested; advise and consult with local office attorneys and staff in trial preparation, evidentiary issues, problematic cases and administrative hearings.
  • Litigate Child in Need of Services and Termination of Parental Rights matters at the trial court level as needed; handle administrative matters and hearings before OALP as assigned.
  • Generate appropriate pleadings, motions and discovery, and responses as needed.
  • Provide or organize coverage for any matters that subordinates are unavailable or unable to handle.
  • Recruit, select, onboard, and train employees to ensure role responsibilities and expectations are clearly understood while providing opportunities to continue professional development.
  • Set expectations, measure progress, provide ongoing feedback, and evaluate the performance of employees. Ensure work adheres to quality standards, deadlines, and proper procedures.

The job profile is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Other duties, responsibilities, and activities may change or be assigned at any time.
This position is exempt from overtime compensation for additional work hours that may be required to complete essential functions or other assigned work. Exempt employees may work more than 75 hours in a pay period without additional compensation and must report a minimum of 75 hours per pay period of work hours and/or paid leave taken to receive their base biweekly salary.
What You'll Need for Success:
Credentials:
  • Doctorate of Jurisprudence.
  • Indiana Bar Admission with license in good standing OR admission to the bar of any state within the United States with license in good standing and willingness to obtain temporary foreign license status under the conditions and limitations of rule 6.1 of the Indiana Rules for Admissions to the Bar and the Discipline of Attorneys pending admissions to the Indiana Bar.

Additional qualifications:
  • Thorough knowledge of federal, state, and local laws, rules and regulations related to agency functions and purposes and to assigned program areas.
  • Thorough knowledge of Rules of Evidence and Indiana Rules of Court.
  • Advanced Knowledge of state's court system and law enforcement agencies.
  • Advanced Knowledge of legal resources and procedures.
  • Advanced Knowledge of the Rules of Ethics and the Code of Professional Responsibility.
  • Ability to communicate articulately for Court proceedings.
  • Ability to use tact and empathy when dealing with people of diverse backgrounds.
  • Ability to exercise sound judgment while managing crisis situations including those involving aggressive adults being investigated.
  • Ability to delegate work, set clear direction, and manage workflow.
  • Ability to effectively give feedback, provide guidance or corrective action, coach, and develop employee skillsets.
  • Ability to perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.

Supervisory Responsibilities/Direct Reports:
This role provides direct supervision for two or more attorneys.
Benefits of Employment with the State of Indiana:
The State of Indiana offers a comprehensive benefits package for full-time employees that includes:
  • Three (3) medical plan options (including RX coverage) as well as vision and dental plans
  • Wellness Rewards Program: Complete wellness activities to earn gift card rewards
  • Health savings account, which includes bi-weekly state contribution
  • Deferred compensation 457(b) account (similar to 401(k) plan) with employer match
  • Two (2) fully-funded pension plan options
  • A robust, comprehensive program of leave policies covering a variety of employee needs, including but not limited to:
    • 150 hours of paid New Parent Leave and up to eight weeks of paid Childbirth Recovery Leave for eligible mothers
    • Up to 15 hours of paid community service leave
    • Combined 180 hours of paid vacation, personal, and sick leave time off
    • 12 paid holidays, 14 in election years
  • Education Reimbursement Program
  • Group life insurance
  • Referral Bonus program
  • Employee assistance program that allows for covered behavioral health visits
  • Qualified employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program
  • Free Parking for most positions
  • Free LinkedIn Learning access

Equal Employment Opportunity:
The State of Indiana is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to recruiting, selecting, developing, and promoting employees based on individual ability and job performance. Reasonable accommodations may be available to enable individuals with disabilities to complete the application and interview process as well as perform the essential functions of a role. If you require reasonable accommodations to complete this application, you can request assistance by contacting the Indiana State Personnel Department at jobs@spd.IN.gov.
Current Employee? Click here to apply.

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