Requisition No: 876320
Agency: Justice Administrative Commission
Working Title: PUBLIC DEFENDER'S OFFICE, 1ST CIRCUIT- ASSISTANT PUBLIC DEFENDER - 21000989
Pay Plan: Pub.DefndrsJAC PIB
Position Number: 21000989
Salary: $70,000.00
Posting Closing Date: 06/30/2026
Total Compensation Estimator Tool
Agency: Office of the Public Defender, First Circuit
How to Apply: Use People First on-line system. Attach resume.
Position: Attorney (Assistant Public Defender)
Salary: Based Upon Experience (minimum $74,000.00 annually and a generous benefits package)
IMMEDIATE HIRE. Public Defender’s Office in Walton County, Florida, is seeking an attorney to handle a misdemeanor or felony caseload. Starting salary is $74,000, with higher pay based on experience.
In the south end of Walton County enjoy the beautiful beaches along 30A that were ranked by HGTV as the top beaches in Florida. Our office is located in Defuniak Springs which is described as “the best small town in Florida” by MSN Insider. With deep gulf water fishing, state park canoeing and camping, and so much more, come live your best life where some only vacation.
Our attorneys manage a reasonable caseload, enjoy professional independence, yet receive strong support from our office administration and senior attorneys which allows you to maintain a healthy balance between your personal and professional life. As part of your training, our attorneys belong to the Florida Public Defender Association (FPDA), enjoy paid travel to continuing education seminars hosted by the FPDA and receive CLE credits. Generous benefits include State retirement system and health/hospitalization, life, and disability insurance coverage.
Preference given to members in good standing of The Florida Bar
The Public Defender's Office has protected the Constitution and the rights of Florida citizens since the landmark Supreme Court case, Gideon v. Wainwright Our office is responsible for providing legal counsel, when appointed by the Court, to those accused of criminal offenses who cannot afford to hire a lawyer, performing as trial counsel by representing defendants during courtroom proceedings, researching case law, communicating with defendant to determine trial strategy such as cross-examination procedures, witness selection, jury selection, testimony decisions and opening and closing arguments.
Employer has a "harassment-free" workplace policy requiring honesty, confidentiality and professional conduct. All employees must uphold confidentiality requirements of all host software programs. Employees must also practice safe workplace procedures, and follow policies and procedures.
If you are a retiree of the Florida Retirement System (FRS), please check with the FRS at 1-844-377-1888 on how your current benefits may be affected if you are re-employed with the State of Florida. Your current retirement benefits may be canceled, suspended, or deemed ineligible depending upon the date of your retirement.
Candidates requiring a reasonable accommodation, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act, must notify the agency hiring authority and/or People First Service Center (1-866-663-4735). Notification to the hiring authority must be made in advance to allow sufficient time to provide the accommodation.
The State of Florida supports a Drug-Free workplace. All employees are subject to reasonable suspicion drug testing in accordance with Section 112.0455, F.S., Drug-Free Workplace Act.
Join Florida’s talented workforce to fulfill your professional goals and achieve a meaningful career. Our talented public servants work hard to serve more than 19 million residents across Florida, and you, too, can realize success in the Sunshine State.
Working in Florida’s state government means being responsive to the issues impacting the taxpayers of our state. Florida’s state government boasts both fast-paced work environments in which critical thinking and creative problem-solving are a must as well as steady employment opportunities that prize consistent service to our state’s residents. In some positions, state employment means being able to influence policy decisions and help implement change. In others, state employment means being the reliable resource that our taxpayers have come to expect from Florida’s public servants. All positions offer the ability to gain valuable experience quickly, improving your overall skillset. The State of Florida is seeking individuals with leadership skills, creativity and dedication to their fellow Floridians and individuals who recognize the professional development opportunities and achievements possible through state service.
Florida boasts the third largest population in the country and is richly diverse in both population and landscape. With an award-winning park system, warm weather and beautiful bodies of water, Florida is the perfect environment for recreational activities and outdoor enthusiasts. Our favorable tax climate means your income goes further and our business-friendly policies foster private sector growth. Joining Florida’s talented, diverse workforce provides the opportunity to achieve your professional goals while living in a state that values quality of life, culture and recreation. For employment opportunities with the State of Florida, visit https://jobs.myflorida.com.
