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Public Defender Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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Public Defender information

See Virginia salary details

$27.8K

$106.6K

$182.9K

How much do public defender jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for public defender in Virginia is $106,611.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,900.00 and $132,800.00 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 Virginia? The most popular types of Public Defender jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Public Defender jobs in Virginia? For Public Defender jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Public Defender jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Public Defender jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Public Defender jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Public Defender job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Public Defender jobs in VA? For Public Defender jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Public Defender jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Defender job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $106,611 per year, or $51.3 per hour.

Assistant Public Defender

1 Hinds County Board of Supervisors

Virginia Beach, VA • On-site

$67K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

The following examples are intended as illustrations of the various types of work to be performed. No attempt is made to be exhaustive in the examples provided. Other logical duties are expected to be performed as assigned. Responsibilities Interview people accused of committing criminal offenses. Regular visits with people in detention facilities and/or prisons. Court appearances on behalf of accused in all courts systems within Hinds County, including but not limited to Initial Appearance, bond hearings, habeas corpus, mandamus, emergency petitions, Preliminary Hearings, and other related pre‐trial activity. Negotiate with charging authorities in an attempt to reach a final disposition of the charge. Act as lead and/or assisting counsel in felony trials Circuit Court. Act as lead and/or assisting counsel in capital felony trials. Act as lead and/or assisting counsel in any misdemeanors that may be assigned to the Office. Works directly with the Public Defender, Deputy Public Defender and the Executive Assistant in the supervision and training of the Secretarial staff and the Investigative staff. Other duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications Attorney must possess a Juris Doctorate and be licensed to practice law in the State of Mississippi in all Mississippi State Courts. Preference will be given to attorneys with litigation experience, especially jury trials. All applicants must be and remain in good standing with the Mississippi Bar Association and the Supreme Court. Attorney must maintain all professional license requirements and required CLE credits and possess and maintain a valid driver's license. Terms of Employment This is an Exempt position. This is an At‐Will employment position. Starting Salary $67,000. #J-18808-Ljbffr

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