Public Defender

careerDetailPage.demandMedium

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

$50,000 – $110,00010% Remote4 careerDetailPage.levels

Law Clerk → Assistant Public Defender → Senior Public Defender → Chief Public Defender

$110k

careerDetailPage.statMaxSalary

10%

careerDetailPage.statRemote

4

careerDetailPage.statLevels

careerDetailPage.overviewTitle

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

careerDetailPage.whyChoose

✓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

careerDetailPage.discoverFit

Big Five MBTI RIASEC

💰 Salary Range

Entry

$50K

Senior

$110K

🎯 Is Public Defender right for you?

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

🎯 Career Match 📐 Big Five 🔬 RIASEC