$81,805
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
/ year
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
25%
$61k
MEDIAN
$82k
75%
$98k
The average salary for a Public Defender is $81,805 in 2025
Base Salary
$61k - $98k
Total Pay
$61k - $98k
Is Average Public Defender with Writing Procedures & Documentation Skills Salary your job title? Find out what you should be paid
Use our tool to get a personalized report on your market worth.What's this?
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What Do Public Defenders Do?
Public Defender Tasks
- Represent clients in cases involving felony or misdemeanor charges, delinquent youth, mental health or disability issues, and abuse or neglect.
- Conduct research using law libraries or computer databases and develop strategic plans.
- Draft legal documents and advise clients on legal matters.
Find your market worth – how it works:
Common Health Benefits for a Public Defender
Medical
100%
Dental
83%
Vision
100%
Gender Breakdown for Public Defenders
Female
75.0%
Male
25.0%
This data is based on 4 survey responses. Learn more about the gender pay gap.
FAQs About Public Defenders
What is the highest pay for Public Defenders?
Our data indicates that the highest pay for a Public Defender is $NaN / year
What is the lowest pay for Public Defenders?
Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Public Defender is $NaN / year
How can Public Defenders increase their salary?
Increasing your pay as a Public Defender is possible in different ways. Change of employer: Consider a career move to a new employer that is willing to pay higher for your skills. Level of Education: Gaining advanced degrees may allow this role to increase their income potential and qualify for promotions. Managing Experience: If you are a Public Defender that oversees more junior Public Defenders, this experience can increase the likelihood to earn more.