Public Defender salary in United States

Average Yearly Salary of Public Defender in United States is approximately 68,190 USD (68,126 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 Public Defender do?

A public defender is a legal professional who provides legal representation to individuals who cannot afford to hire a private attorney. They work within the criminal justice system, specifically in the defense of individuals accused of crimes. Public defenders handle a wide range of cases, from minor offenses to serious felonies, and represent their clients throughout the entire legal process, including pre-trial hearings, negotiations, and court trials. Their role involves conducting thorough investigations, interviewing witnesses, analyzing evidence, and developing strong defense strategies to ensure their clients' rights are protected. Public defenders also provide guidance and advice to their clients, helping them understand the charges against them and the potential consequences they may face.

Skills: Public Defender, Legal Representation, Criminal Justice System, Defense Attorney, Indigent Clients, Criminal Defense.
Job industry: Legal

How much does Public Defender make?

Difference in salary year over year or average salary increase is approximately 4 %


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Salary comparison to National average

Is Public Defender a well paid job?

No / we do not have enough data to assess this.

What is considered a high salary for Public Defender?

High salary for Public Defender would be somewhere between 75,009 USD and 98,876 USD. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Public Defender in United States?

Living in United States the approximate monthly expenses are: 2,280 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: 68,190 USD
Estimated Monthly Salary: 5,683 USD
Estimated Weekly Salary: 1,311 USD per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 33 USD per hour
By working as Public Defender a person can save up to 3,397 USD per month or 40,766 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 United States, see costs of living in United States.

Salary comparison to region and neighbouring coutries

Country's neighbours are: Canada, Mexico.
To make it easier for comparison a conversion from local currency to USD has been made (conversion rates may vary).

Estimated Yearly Salary for 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.

Top 10 highest salaries in United States

Data as of 2025

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