Public defenders do some of the most important work in the legal system — representing people who cannot afford counsel and protecting constitutional rights. But despite the importance of the job, public defender pay remains among the lowest in the profession.
Here’s what the financial reality actually looks like.
Starting Salaries
Starting pay varies widely, but most new PDs fall into these ranges:
- $50,000–$65,000 in many states
- $70,000–$85,000 in major cities (NYC, LA, DC, SF)
- $45,000–$55,000 in underfunded rural districts
Many first-year PDs earn less than local teachers.
Mid-Career Salaries (5–10 Years)
After several years on the job, most PDs earn:
- $70,000–$95,000 in typical offices
- $100,000–$120,000 in better-funded, unionized big-city offices
Senior Public Defenders
With 10+ years of experience, PDs generally fall into:
- $90,000–$125,000 in most regions
- Up to $130,000–$150,000+ in the highest-paid offices (NYC Legal Aid, San Francisco, DC)
Only a small number of PDs earn above $150k, usually in supervisory positions.
Why Salaries Stay Low
Public defense is chronically underfunded. Budgets depend on state and county legislatures, caseloads keep rising, and many offices go years without meaningful raises. Prosecutors in the same jurisdictions often earn $10k–$30k more.
PDs also face:
- Heavy caseloads (often 200–400 cases)
- Limited resources
- Unpaid overtime
- Difficulty managing six-figure student loans unless they use PSLF or IDR repayment plans
Bottom Line
Public defenders typically earn:
- $50k–$70k starting
- $80k–$110k mid-career
- $120k–$150k at the top end, depending on the office and the city
The work is demanding — financially and emotionally — but for many lawyers, it remains one of the most meaningful careers in the profession.