Public Defender

Public Defender Career

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As a Public Defender, you represent people accused of crimes when they cannot afford a Lawyer. You’re one of the most important legal professionals because you make it possible for everyone, regardless of their financial situation, to have legal counsel. In this job, the government pays you, but you’re ethically bound to serve your clients’ best interests.

Not every case will see you arguing before a Judge and jury. A lot of the work Public Defenders do takes place behind the scenes. When you don’t think your client can win their case, you work with them and Prosecutors to come up with a plea bargain, which offers the client a more lenient punishment in exchange for pleading guilty to a lesser offense.

If a trial is scheduled, you prepare your client by going over questions with them, and coaching them on how to behave properly in court. Before the trial, your time is spent at your desk writing briefs, filing motions, and researching laws pertinent to your case. You also gather experts to testify on your client’s behalf.

Of all the legal avenues you can choose after you graduate from law school, the path of the Public Defender is one of the least glamorous. Typically, your caseloads will be heavy. Determination, unwavering belief in the legal system, and coffee will be your best friends. But even though you will not get paid as much or be as famous as high-priced Criminal Defense Lawyers, helping just one man prove his innocence will make it all worthwhile.

How do I become a Public Defender?

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An aspiring Public Defender begins his or her education with a Bachelor’s in pre-law studies, history, criminal justice, or political science. Take courses that will improve your writing, speaking, and critical reasoning abilities. After you graduate, attend law school, focusing your studies on criminal law, litigation, and civil law. To practice, you need to take the bar exam after you receive your law degree. Seek out employment in government offices, and work your way to a Public Defender post. Many Public Defenders start as Prosecutors. Consider this option if you want to be a Judge one day.