Position Summary Be the difference in others' recovery journeys with Recovery Corps. As someone who knows what it's like to build a healthy life in recovery, you can help make recovery possible for ...
Position Summary Be the difference in others' recovery journeys with Recovery Corps. As someone who knows what it's like to build a healthy life in recovery, you can help make recovery possible for ...
Position Summary Be the difference in others' recovery journeys with Recovery Corps. As someone who knows what it's like to build a healthy life in recovery, you can help make recovery possible for ...
Position Summary Be the difference in others' recovery journeys with Recovery Corps. As someone who knows what it's like to build a healthy life in recovery, you can help make recovery possible for ...
Position Summary Be the difference in others' recovery journeys with Recovery Corps. As someone who knows what it's like to build a healthy life in recovery, you can help make recovery possible for ...
Position Summary Be the difference in others' recovery journeys with Recovery Corps. As someone who knows what it's like to build a healthy life in recovery, you can help make recovery possible for ...
Position Summary Be the difference in others' recovery journeys with Recovery Corps. As someone who knows what it's like to build a healthy life in recovery, you can help make recovery possible for ...
Position Summary Be the difference in others' recovery journeys with Recovery Corps. As someone who knows what it's like to build a healthy life in recovery, you can help make recovery possible for ...
Position Summary Be the difference in others' recovery journeys with Recovery Corps. As someone who knows what it's like to build a healthy life in recovery, you can help make recovery possible for ...
Position Summary Be the difference in others' recovery journeys with Recovery Corps. As someone who knows what it's like to build a healthy life in recovery, you can help make recovery possible for ...
Position Summary Be the difference in others' recovery journeys with Recovery Corps. As someone who knows what it's like to build a healthy life in recovery, you can help make recovery possible for ...
Position Summary Be the difference in others' recovery journeys with Recovery Corps. As someone who knows what it's like to build a healthy life in recovery, you can help make recovery possible for ...
Position Summary Be the difference in others' recovery journeys with Recovery Corps. As someone who knows what it's like to build a healthy life in recovery, you can help make recovery possible for ...
Position Summary Be the difference in others' recovery journeys with Recovery Corps. As someone who knows what it's like to build a healthy life in recovery, you can help make recovery possible for ...
Position Summary Be the difference in others' recovery journeys with Recovery Corps. As someone who knows what it's like to build a healthy life in recovery, you can help make recovery possible for ...
Position Summary Be the difference in others' recovery journeys with Recovery Corps. As someone who knows what it's like to build a healthy life in recovery, you can help make recovery possible for ...
Position Summary Be the difference in others' recovery journeys with Recovery Corps. As someone who knows what it's like to build a healthy life in recovery, you can help make recovery possible for ...
Position Summary Be the difference in others' recovery journeys with Recovery Corps. As someone who knows what it's like to build a healthy life in recovery, you can help make recovery possible for ...
Position Summary Be the difference in others' recovery journeys with Recovery Corps. As someone who knows what it's like to build a healthy life in recovery, you can help make recovery possible for ...
Position Summary Be the difference in others' recovery journeys with Recovery Corps. As someone who knows what it's like to build a healthy life in recovery, you can help make recovery possible for ...
Position Summary Be the difference in others' recovery journeys with Recovery Corps. As someone who knows what it's like to build a healthy life in recovery, you can help make recovery possible for ...
Position Summary Be the difference in others' recovery journeys with Recovery Corps. As someone who knows what it's like to build a healthy life in recovery, you can help make recovery possible for ...
Position Summary Be the difference in others' recovery journeys with Recovery Corps. As someone who knows what it's like to build a healthy life in recovery, you can help make recovery possible for ...
Position Summary Be the difference in others' recovery journeys with Recovery Corps. As someone who knows what it's like to build a healthy life in recovery, you can help make recovery possible for ...
Position Summary Be the difference in others' recovery journeys with Recovery Corps. As someone who knows what it's like to build a healthy life in recovery, you can help make recovery possible for ...
Position Summary Be the difference in others' recovery journeys with Recovery Corps. As someone who knows what it's like to build a healthy life in recovery, you can help make recovery possible for ...
Position Summary Be the difference in others' recovery journeys with Recovery Corps. As someone who knows what it's like to build a healthy life in recovery, you can help make recovery possible for ...
Position Summary Be the difference in others' recovery journeys with Recovery Corps. As someone who knows what it's like to build a healthy life in recovery, you can help make recovery possible for ...
Position Summary Be the difference in others' recovery journeys with Recovery Corps. As someone who knows what it's like to build a healthy life in recovery, you can help make recovery possible for ...
Position Summary Be the difference in others' recovery journeys with Recovery Corps. As someone who knows what it's like to build a healthy life in recovery, you can help make recovery possible for ...
Position Summary Be the difference in others' recovery journeys with Recovery Corps. As someone who knows what it's like to build a healthy life in recovery, you can help make recovery possible for ...
Position Summary Be the difference in others' recovery journeys with Recovery Corps. As someone who knows what it's like to build a healthy life in recovery, you can help make recovery possible for ...
Position Summary Be the difference in others' recovery journeys with Recovery Corps. As someone who knows what it's like to build a healthy life in recovery, you can help make recovery possible for ...
Position Summary Be the difference in others' recovery journeys with Recovery Corps. As someone who knows what it's like to build a healthy life in recovery, you can help make recovery possible for ...
Position Summary Be the difference in others' recovery journeys with Recovery Corps. As someone who knows what it's like to build a healthy life in recovery, you can help make recovery possible for ...
Position Summary Be the difference in others' recovery journeys with Recovery Corps. As someone who knows what it's like to build a healthy life in recovery, you can help make recovery possible for ...
Position Summary Be the difference in others' recovery journeys with Recovery Corps. As someone who knows what it's like to build a healthy life in recovery, you can help make recovery possible for ...
Position Summary Be the difference in others' recovery journeys with Recovery Corps. As someone who knows what it's like to build a healthy life in recovery, you can help make recovery possible for ...
Position Summary Be the difference in others' recovery journeys with Recovery Corps. As someone who knows what it's like to build a healthy life in recovery, you can help make recovery possible for ...
Position Summary Be the difference in others' recovery journeys with Recovery Corps. As someone who knows what it's like to build a healthy life in recovery, you can help make recovery possible for ...
Public Defender information
See Virginia salary details
$27.8K - $41.9K
6% of jobs
$41.9K - $56K
5% of jobs
$56K - $70.1K
8% of jobs
$72.9K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$70.1K - $84.2K
25% of jobs
The median wage is $87.5K / yr.
$84.2K - $98.3K
20% of jobs
$107.6K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$98.3K - $112.4K
15% of jobs
$112.4K - $126.5K
3% of jobs
$126.5K - $140.6K
3% of jobs
$140.6K - $154.7K
1% of jobs
$154.7K - $168.8K
0% of jobs
$168.8K - $182.9K
13% of jobs
$27.8K
$106.6K
$182.9K
How much do public defender jobs pay per year?
As of Aug 9, 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?
| Aspect | Public Defender | Criminal Defense Attorney |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | Jurisdiction-specific law degree, bar license, often government employment | Law degree, bar license, private practice or firm affiliation |
| Work Environment | Government offices, courtrooms, public service settings | Private law firms, solo practices, or corporate offices |
| Employer | Government agencies or public defender offices | Private clients or law firms |
| Common Usage | Represent indigent defendants in criminal cases | Represent 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:
Other
Re-posted 4 days ago
Job description
Position Summary
Be the difference in others' recovery journeys with Recovery Corps. As someone who knows what it's like to build a healthy life in recovery, you can help make recovery possible for more people!
Join Recovery Corps as a Recovery Navigator and you'll spend your days at an organization committed to serving recovery communities. We'll train you to provide peer support to individuals as they work to maintain their progress in recovery.
How does it work? You'll meet with participants and provide guidance as they navigate resources, set goals, and develop recovery action plans. Through individualized support, you'll be part of creating more success stories!
Want to learn more? Watch this 4-minute video and see what it's like to be a member. Or click here to view the position description.
Have questions? We'd love to hear from you! Contact us at 866-859-2825 or join@ampact.us.
Core Responsibilities
Essential Qualifications
By the time you begin your service with Recovery Corps, you should be:
Schedule
We are currently hiring for the 2026-27 program year. Positions run September 2026-July 2027.
Part-time positions are also available at 25 hours per week!
Compensation & Perks Package
Full-time AmeriCorps members receive a paycheck (stipend) every two weeks. Please visit our careers page to learn more about our stipend amounts and education awards: https://join.readingandmath.org/ or click here to Learn more.
About our Organization
Recovery Corps is powered by incredible AmeriCorps members helping more people build a healthy life in recovery. The program launched in 2017 as a strategic partnership through ServeMinnesota and is administered by Ampact as part of its healthy futures program offerings.
Ampact prohibits all forms of discrimination and harassment based on race, color, national origin, sex, age (40 and over), religion, sexual orientation, disability (mental or physical), political affiliation, marital or parental status, pregnancy, reprisal, genetic information (including family medical history), military service, or any other category protected by law. Reasonable accommodation available upon request. This document is available in alternative formats.
Be the difference in others' recovery journeys with Recovery Corps. As someone who knows what it's like to build a healthy life in recovery, you can help make recovery possible for more people!
Join Recovery Corps as a Recovery Navigator and you'll spend your days at an organization committed to serving recovery communities. We'll train you to provide peer support to individuals as they work to maintain their progress in recovery.
How does it work? You'll meet with participants and provide guidance as they navigate resources, set goals, and develop recovery action plans. Through individualized support, you'll be part of creating more success stories!
Want to learn more? Watch this 4-minute video and see what it's like to be a member. Or click here to view the position description.
Have questions? We'd love to hear from you! Contact us at 866-859-2825 or join@ampact.us.
Core Responsibilities
- Foster strong relationships with participants
- Lean on your own recovery experience to provide mentoring and peer support
- Connect participants with social service resources and programs
- Track participant recovery plan progress
- Participate in training and professional development throughout the year, including the Peer Recovery Support training
- Share your experience with the community
Essential Qualifications
By the time you begin your service with Recovery Corps, you should be:
- In recovery for at least one uninterrupted year from a substance use disorder
- Dependable and have a history of good attendance
- Able to understand and follow instructions
- Able to set a pace and maintain a service schedule, depending on the agreed upon hours commitment
- Have basic computer skills (like email and navigating online)
- Fluent in English for speaking, reading, and writing
- 18 years of age or older with a high school diploima or equivalent
- A citizen, national, or lawful permanent resident of the United States
- Able to successfully complete a background check
Schedule
We are currently hiring for the 2026-27 program year. Positions run September 2026-July 2027.
- 40 hours per week
- Daytime hours
- Monday-Friday
- Time off on holidays
Part-time positions are also available at 25 hours per week!
Compensation & Perks Package
Full-time AmeriCorps members receive a paycheck (stipend) every two weeks. Please visit our careers page to learn more about our stipend amounts and education awards: https://join.readingandmath.org/ or click here to Learn more.
About our Organization
Recovery Corps is powered by incredible AmeriCorps members helping more people build a healthy life in recovery. The program launched in 2017 as a strategic partnership through ServeMinnesota and is administered by Ampact as part of its healthy futures program offerings.
Ampact prohibits all forms of discrimination and harassment based on race, color, national origin, sex, age (40 and over), religion, sexual orientation, disability (mental or physical), political affiliation, marital or parental status, pregnancy, reprisal, genetic information (including family medical history), military service, or any other category protected by law. Reasonable accommodation available upon request. This document is available in alternative formats.