What does a Public Defender do?
Published 3 min read
Public defenders are lawyers who work for the government to represent criminal defendants who cannot afford to hire a private attorney.
Public Defender job duties include:
- Advocating for the best interests of the client
- Providing legal representation for the indigent in criminal cases
- Investigating the facts of cases and developing defense strategies
- Researching case law and preparing legal briefs
- Arguing motions before a judge
- Examining and cross-examining witnesses
- Giving closing arguments at trial
- Negotiating plea bargains with prosecutors
- Representing clients in appeals
Public Defender Job Requirements
Most public defenders have a law degree from an accredited law school. Many states require that public defenders be licensed to practice law in that state. Some states have certification programs for public defenders. Public defenders usually have several years of experience working as lawyers, although some public defender offices may hire entry-level lawyers.
Public Defender Skills
- Communication
- Research
- Writing
- Analytical
- Critical thinking
- Logical
- Organizational
- Time management
- Multitasking
- Public speaking
- Negotiation
Related: Top Public Defender Skills: Definition and Examples
How to become a Public Defender
A public defender is a lawyer who represents defendants who are unable to afford an attorney. Public defenders are typically employed by the government at the local, state, or federal level.
Becoming a public defender requires completing a four-year undergraduate degree and then attending law school for three years. After graduating from law school, public defenders must pass their state’s bar exam in order to become licensed to practice law.
Once licensed, public defenders can work for the government or in private practice. Those who work for the government are typically assigned to cases by a court. Private practice public defenders may choose to represent clients who have been referred to them by other attorneys or they may actively seek out clients.
Public defenders must be excellent communicators and have strong writing skills. They must also be able to think critically and quickly in order to effectively represent their clients in court.
Related: Public Defender Resume Example
Related: Public Defender Interview Questions (With Example Answers)