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Salary and Benefits

Public Defender
$51K-$63K / yr. (est.)
$52K
$57,457 / year
$63K
Average base salary
The salary information provided is based on data collected from various reliable sources and may vary depending on individual qualifications and other factors.

About Public Defender

What does a Public Defender do?

As public defenders, we manage the defendants in the course cases. We provide legal representation of the clients. We represent the defendants in every phase of the case. We prepare the defense points and present them. It is our duty to ensure on-time submissions of the legal reports and documents. We participate in legal researches and implement the legal principles. We ensure to create cooperative relationships with the stakeholders. Some of us provide legal consultation to the clients. As public defenders, our duties include representing the clients in criminal proceedings. Moreover, we prepare defenses and ensure close communication with the clients.

Core tasks:

  • gathering facts about the cases
  • handling the pleas and appeals
  • preparing the legal agreements and documents

Insights

How Many Years of Experience Do Professionals Need Before Becoming Public Defender?
On average, people work 3-5 years in other positions prior to becoming a Public Defender.
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Public DefenderMiami, FL - A year ago
I don't care about experience! I want someone who is passionate about justice, not just a clock-puncher!
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Public DefenderDenver, CO - A year ago
πŸ”₯ Experience or not, everyone deserves proper representation! Stop gatekeeping justice, people!
How Long Do Public Defender Employees Typically Stay in Their Roles?
On average, Public Defenders works in this position for 5+ years across multiple employers.
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Magistrate JudgeNew York City, NY - A year ago
Being a judge requires me to respect all legal professionals, including public defenders. But, in reality, some public defenders lack the experience and preparation needed to provide the best defense for their clients.
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Legal AssistantHouston, TX - A year ago
I don't understand why there's so much criticism for public defenders. They work tirelessly to navigate the complex legal system and bring justice to those who need it the most. We should appreciate their dedication and support them!
What Is the Job Hopper Score for Public Defender Employees?
Moderate job changes in Public Defender, showing some career movement without excessive turnover.
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TeacherHouston, TX - A year ago
I think job changes can be beneficial for Public Defenders to gain diverse legal perspectives and expand their skills ✨
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Writer - ContractorMiami, FL - A year ago
i totally get the allure of career movement, but as a freelancer, I value the flexibility and creative freedom my job gives me πŸ“

Career path

Path to job

Discover a Public Defender's areas of knowledge sorted by their majors.
Explore the list of higher education institutions that a Public Defender typically studied at.
California Western School of Law
Santa Clara University School of Law

Path after job

Community

Demographics

What Is the Age and Gender Ratio of Public Defender Employees?
Gender ratio in Public Defender position: 0.592834728033473 Male and 0.407165271966527 Female. Age ratio in Public Defender position: 16-20: 2%, 21-30: 65%, 31-40: 24%, 41-50: 6%, 51-60: 2%, 60+: 1%. Public Defender position is predominantly male (59.3%) with the largest age group being 21-30 years old, followed by 31-40 years old.
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Public DefenderSan Francisco, CA - A year ago
Wait a minute! How are we not talking about the lack of representation for older public defenders? We should be embracing the experience and wisdom they bring to the table. πŸ§“
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Public DefenderSeattle, WA - A year ago
Let's not forget the incredible dedication and passion it takes to be a public defender. It's not about age or gender, it's about standing up for justice and defending those who can't defend themselves! ✊

Workplaces

Who Are the Top Employers for Public Defender?
Top employers of Public Defender position: COLORADO STATE PUBLIC DEFENDER, Federal Public Defender, Los Angeles County Public Defender's Office. People who work in Public Defender position most typically go on to work for the COLORADO STATE PUBLIC DEFENDER.
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Public DefenderMiami, FL - A year ago
The real issue here is not the type of employer, but the lack of adequate funding for public defense. Without proper resources, public defenders struggle to provide the level of representation that every defendant deserves. Let's fight for better funding, regardless of employer.
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Public DefenderHouston, TX - A year ago
Y'all getting too hung up on who the top employers are. What truly matters is the dedication and passion of public defenders who fight tirelessly for justice. Let's appreciate the work they do, regardless of whether they get their paycheck from the government or a private firm.
COLORADO STATE PUBLIC DEFENDER
Federal Public Defender
Los Angeles County Public Defender's Office
What Industries Does Public Defender Typically Have Experience In?
Industry Background: The most typical industries of Public Defender: Professional / Scientific / Technical, Public Administration, Education, Religious / Grantmaking / Civic, Health Care. Public Defender employees most likely come from a Professional / Scientific / Technical industry background.
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Public DefenderMiami, FL - A year ago
Hey, it's a tough job representing those who can't afford private representation. But Public Defenders make a huge difference in making sure everyone receives a fair defense. πŸ’―
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Public DefenderNew York City, NY - A year ago
Public Defenders, like myself, fight for justice even when the odds are against us. We fight for the marginalized and vulnerable, striving to create a more equitable society. πŸ”₯

Find your job as Public Defender

Discussion about Public Defender

Want to know more about Public Defender position?
Share your thoughts and ideas about Public Defender position with others in our community.
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Is Public Defender a female or male dominated profession?
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Liam Brown4 years ago
The women/men ratio is well balanced.
What is the typical age of people who work as a Public Defender?
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Liam Brown4 years ago
29 is the average age of people working as a Public Defender.
How many years of experience do you usually have as a Public Defender?
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Sophie Hayes4 years ago
4 years of experience is needed on average for a Public Defender.
Which industries should a Public Defender consider working in?
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Benjamin Gardner4 years ago
Most typically work in the Public Administration industry.
Is a degree needed to work as a Public Defender?
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Liam Brown4 years ago
A Bachelor of Arts degree could not hurt if you want to be a Public Defender
Where are you working as a Public Defender?
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Benjamin Gardner4 years ago
COLORADO STATE PUBLIC DEFENDER, Federal Public Defender, Los Angeles County Public Defender's Office, San Diego Public Defender and San Francisco Public Defender employs the most people in the Public Defender role.
How many years do people spend as a Public Defender in their career path?
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Isabella Holmes4 years ago
More than 5 years is the typical lifespan for a Public Defender.
How frequently people change companies if they work as a Public Defender?
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Sophie Hayes4 years ago
A typical Public Defender might work for one or two companies.
What jobs do people work in before becoming a Public Defender?
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Sophie Hayes4 years ago
A Public Defender probably worked as Law Clerk, Attorney or Associate Attorney before
What can be the next step in your career path from Public Defender?
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Isabella Holmes4 years ago
Attorney, Associate Attorney or Attorney AT Law are good next steps for a Public Defender
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