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Public Defender

Medium demand

Champion the constitutional right to legal representation by defending those who cannot afford a lawyer

$XX,000 – $XXX,000XX% Remote4 levels
Law Clerk → Assistant Public Defender → Senior Public Defender → Chief Public Defender
$XXXk
Max salary (US)
XX%
Remote
4
Career levels

About the profession

Public Defenders provide legal representation to individuals charged with crimes who cannot afford private attorneys. They investigate cases, negotiate plea agreements, represent clients at trial, and protect constitutional rights within the criminal justice system. The role demands exceptional courtroom skills, deep knowledge of criminal law, and unwavering commitment to justice. Industry Demand: high — chronic underfunding and high caseloads create approximately 15,000+ openings nationally, with many jurisdictions struggling to recruit and retain defenders

Why choose it

✓Protect the fundamental right to counsel guaranteed by the Constitution
✓Gain unmatched courtroom experience from day one
✓Fight for justice on behalf of the most vulnerable and marginalized
✓Develop litigation skills faster than almost any other legal career path
✓Qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) after 10 years

How to Get Started

1

Take a personality test to see if Public Defender fits your profile

Career Match Test →
2

Explore the Career Path tab to see progression from junior to senior

3

Start learning — check the Learning Path for free courses

Find out if this career fits you

Big FiveMBTIRIASEC

💰 Salary Range

US data

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Personality types that fit this career

Based on career-match data from our Result Library:

Chaotic Good — The Rebel With a Cause
Freedom-fighting justice, challenging oppressive systems
90%

🎯 Is Public Defender right for you?

Take these tests to find out if this career matches your personality:

🎯 Career Match📐 Big Five🔬 RIASEC
Psychology of Public Defender
Big Five profile, MBTI distribution, strengths & blind spots
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Related Reading

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Related Holland / RIASEC Types

EEnterprisingLeading, persuading, businessSSocialHelping, teaching, working with peopleCConventionalOrganizing, detail-oriented, structured
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