Assistant Public Defender salary in South Africa

Average Yearly Salary of Assistant Public Defender in South Africa is approximately 168,025 ZAR (8,431 USD). Data is for 2025 and indicates a pre-tax value. The salary itself depends on multiple factors such as seniority, job performance, certifications, experience or any other bonuses. The value indicated is an average amount based on records we have in database. Real values may vary. The data is for orientational purposes.

What does Assistant Public Defender do?

An assistant public defender is a legal professional who works in the criminal justice system to provide legal representation to individuals who cannot afford to hire their own attorney. They work under the supervision of a public defender and handle a caseload of criminal cases. Their responsibilities include conducting legal research, interviewing clients, reviewing evidence, negotiating plea deals, and representing clients in court. This occupation requires a strong understanding of criminal law, excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and the ability to work under pressure. Assistant public defenders must be able to build rapport with clients from diverse backgrounds and advocate for their rights effectively. They must also be organized and detail-oriented, as they often handle multiple cases simultaneously.

Skills: legal representation, criminal justice system, legal research, client advocacy, courtroom representation, public defense.
Job industry: Legal

How much does Assistant Public Defender make?

Difference in salary year over year or average salary increase is approximately 3 %


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Salary comparison to National average

Is Assistant Public Defender a well paid job?

Yes, our data shows that Assistant Public Defender is a well paid job. With years and experience the salary might increase even further, resulting in higher satisfaction.

What is considered a high salary for Assistant Public Defender?

High salary for Assistant Public Defender would be somewhere between 184,828 ZAR and 243,636 ZAR. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Assistant Public Defender in South Africa?

Living in South Africa the approximate monthly expenses are: 271 USD. This amount covers basic needs such as food, housing, clothing, healthcare and education costs for a single person. No luxury expenses such as traveling, leisure, hobbies are included in the estimation.

Estimated Yearly Salary: 168,025 ZAR
Estimated Monthly Salary: 14,002 ZAR
Estimated Weekly Salary: 3,231 ZAR per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 81 ZAR per hour
By working as Assistant Public Defender a person can save up to 431 USD per month or 5,177 USD yearly. Values are pre-tax.

NOTE: These values are estimates and are averaged for the whole country. Furthermore the value is likely exaggerated as no other expenses are taken into account in the projection. Unessential expenses are very subjective and are difficult to assess. Most likely the previously estimated number is significantly lower for majority of people. Expenses in different cities across the country may vary. Above values accuracy is low and is based on limited set of data obtained.

For more information regarding expenses in South Africa, see costs of living in South Africa.

Salary comparison to region and neighbouring coutries

Country's neighbours are: Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Eswatini, Lesotho.
To make it easier for comparison a conversion from local currency to USD has been made (conversion rates may vary).

Estimated Yearly Salary for Assistant Public Defender

Last revision of data: 2025-01-04

Salary increase per years of experience

Based on data available the salary increase per years of experience is as following

0 years (beginner) equals base salary

1 to 5 years of experience yields +12% salary increase

6 to 10 years of experience yields +25% salary increase

11 to 15 years of experience yields +16% salary increase

16 to 25 years of experience yields +9% salary increase

more than 25 years of experience yields +10% salary increase

NOTE: Details based on limited set of data. Percentages may vary. The salary increase over years of experience can vary widely based on factors such as job industry, job role, location, company size, and individual performance. To gain even larger increase in salary one is advised to switch jobs and / or employer.

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Data as of 2025

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