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Public Defense Attorney Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Musca Law

CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY

Fort Walton Beach, FL · On-site

$63K - $85K/yr

The ideal attorney must have a minimum of five to seven years of experience in the criminal defense field, former public sector experience, preferred, and must be willing to travel (Federal Licensure ...

Musca Law

CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY

Naples, FL · On-site

$71K - $95K/yr

The ideal attorney must have a minimum of five to seven years of experience in the criminal defense field, former public sector experience, preferred, and must be willing to travel (Federal Licensure ...

Musca Law

CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY

Naples, FL · On-site

$71K - $95K/yr

The ideal attorney must have a minimum of five to seven years of experience in the criminal defense field, former public sector experience, preferred, and must be willing to travel (Federal Licensure ...

Musca-Law

CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY

Sarasota, FL · On-site

$85 - $120/hr

The ideal attorney must have a minimum of five to seven years of experience in the criminal defense field, former public sector experience, preferred, and must be willing to travel (Federal Licensure ...

Musca Law

CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY

Fort Walton Beach, FL · On-site

$63K - $85K/yr

The ideal attorney must have a minimum of five to seven years of experience in the criminal defense field, former public sector experience, preferred, and must be willing to travel (Federal Licensure ...

Musca Law

CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY

Sarasota, FL · On-site

$74K - $99K/yr

The ideal attorney must have a minimum of five to seven years of experience in the criminal defense field, former public sector experience, preferred, and must be willing to travel (Federal Licensure ...

Musca Law

CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY

Naples, FL · On-site

$71K - $95K/yr

The ideal attorney must have a minimum of five to seven years of experience in the criminal defense field, former public sector experience, preferred, and must be willing to travel (Federal Licensure ...

Musca Law

CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY

Sarasota, FL · On-site

$74K - $99K/yr

The ideal attorney must have a minimum of five to seven years of experience in the criminal defense field, former public sector experience, preferred, and must be willing to travel (Federal Licensure ...

Cuzdey, Stine and Sansalone, LLC

Be Seen First

Insurance Defense Attorney

Alpharetta, GA · On-site

Individuals with workers' compensation defense or Public Defender, Assistant District Attorney, or Solicitor, preferred * Outgoing personality, dynamic, and attention to details are traits desired ...

Musca Law

CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY

Fort Walton Beach, FL · On-site

$63K - $85K/yr

The ideal attorney must have a minimum of five to seven years of experience in the criminal defense field, former public sector experience, preferred, and must be willing to travel (Federal Licensure ...

Musca Law

CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY

Sarasota, FL · On-site

$74K - $99K/yr

The ideal attorney must have a minimum of five to seven years of experience in the criminal defense field, former public sector experience, preferred, and must be willing to travel (Federal Licensure ...

Musca Law

CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY

Sarasota, FL · On-site

The ideal attorney must have a minimum of five to seven years of experience in the criminal defense field, former public sector experience, preferred, and must be willing to travel (Federal Licensure ...

Musca Law

CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY

Naples, FL · On-site

$71K - $95K/yr

The ideal attorney must have a minimum of five to seven years of experience in the criminal defense field, former public sector experience, preferred, and must be willing to travel (Federal Licensure ...

Musca Law

CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY

Fort Walton Beach, FL · On-site

$63K - $85K/yr

The ideal attorney must have a minimum of five to seven years of experience in the criminal defense field, former public sector experience, preferred, and must be willing to travel (Federal Licensure ...

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Public Defense Attorney information

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$46K

$108.2K

$172.5K

How much do public defense attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for public defense attorney in the United States is $108,160.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,000.00 and $130,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by public defense attorneys, and how can they be managed effectively?

Public defense attorneys often handle high caseloads and work with clients who may have limited trust in the legal system or face significant personal challenges. Managing these demands requires strong organizational skills, resilience, and a commitment to client advocacy. Effective public defenders prioritize communication, seek mentorship from experienced colleagues, and utilize available resources—such as investigator support or social workers—to provide the best possible defense. Collaboration within the public defender's office and ongoing professional development can also help attorneys navigate these challenges and deliver quality representation.

What is a public defense attorney?

Public defense attorneys are licensed lawyers appointed by the government to represent individuals who cannot afford to hire a private attorney in criminal cases. Their primary role is to ensure that all defendants receive a fair trial and that their legal rights are protected throughout the judicial process. Public defenders handle various aspects of criminal defense, including investigating cases, negotiating plea deals, and representing clients in court. They play a crucial role in upholding the constitutional right to legal counsel.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a public defense attorney, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Public Defense Attorney, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, state bar admission, and a strong foundation in criminal law and trial advocacy. Familiarity with legal research databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis, as well as case management systems, is commonly required. Outstanding communication, negotiation, and emotional resilience are crucial soft skills for building client trust and managing high caseloads. These skills ensure effective legal representation for indigent clients and uphold the fairness and integrity of the justice system.
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Public Defense Attorney jobs near you

Criminal Defense Attorney

Protouch Staffing

Oklahoma City, OK

$90K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 hours ago

Job description

Our company is seeking an experienced Criminal Defense Attorney to join our Oklahoma City team of Fierce Advocates. We represent individuals during some of the most challenging moments of their lives, and we take that responsibility seriously. Our firm is built on preparation, accountability, and working together to deliver strong, thoughtful advocacy in both state and federal courts. Attorneys with prior experience as prosecutors or public defenders are encouraged to apply.


This position is designed for a skilled litigator who wants meaningful courtroom work, structured mentorship, and intentional development, including the opportunity to grow in federal court. If you are looking for a long-term professional home where high standards are shared, collaboration is expected, and your growth is supported, we would welcome the opportunity to connect.

Responsibilities:

What You'll Do:

  • Represent clients in state and federal court with preparation, professionalism, and sound judgment.

  • Assume meaningful responsibility for a criminal caseload, with strategic guidance and collaborative support from firm leadership.

  • Develop case strategy from intake through resolution, including motions practice, negotiations, and trial preparation.

  • Draft and argue substantive motions, briefs, and legal memoranda.

  • Operate within Clio Manage to maintain a disciplined workflow, meet deadlines, and ensure proactive client communication.

  • Partner with and mentor paralegals, legal administrators, and our full-time investigator, fostering a coordinated, team-centered approach to case strategy, preparation, and client service.

  • Contribute to a collaborative, high-standard environment where accountability and professionalism are expected.


Qualifications:

  • Licensed and in good standing with the Oklahoma State Bar (required).

  • we are specifically looking for an attorney with 3-5 years of federal court experience who has taken cases to trial.

  • 5+ years of criminal litigation experience, including substantial courtroom exposure.

  • Prior experience as a prosecutor, public defender, or criminal defense attorney strongly considered.

  • Demonstrated ability to exercise sound professional judgment in high-stakes matters.

  • Strong written and oral advocacy skills, including motions practice and courtroom argument.

  • Organized and disciplined in managing deadlines, client communication, and case progression.

  • Committed to collaboration, accountability, and continuous professional growth.

About Company
We are a high-volume, Family Law and Criminal defense firm dedicated to advocating for clients with skill, compassion, and determination. Our team thrives in a fast-paced environment where no two days are the same, and client success is our ultimate goal.

Our mission-driven culture reflects our Core Values of Integrity, Teamwork, Compassion, Excellence, Servant Leadership, and Justice. We prioritize work-life balance, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

Competitive salary based on experience

  • Performance-based bonuses tied to growth and ROI

  • 401(k) with company match

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance

  • Three weeks of PTO - and we want you to use it

  • Structured Mentorship & Growth

  • Quarterly team retreats and a collaborative, mission-focused culture

Protouch Staffing logo

About Protouch Staffing

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Protouch Staffing, based in Plano, Texas, is a leading provider in the healthcare staffing industry. Established over 30 years ago, the company prides itself on delivering quality services in the fields of nursing, allied health, pharmaceuticals, healthcare IT, and more. Committed to building lasting relationships, Protouch Staffing continually exceeds client expectations by providing unparalleled service, superior patient care, and talented healthcare professionals.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Frisco, TX, US

Year founded

1989

View All Protouch Staffing Jobs