Assistant Public Defender

Join a Legacy of Justice—Become a Trial Attorney in Florida’s Historic Tenth Judicial Circuit in Central Florida

Position Title:

Assistant Public Defender

Starting Salary: $70,000 or higher, commensurate with experience; competitive raises

Relocation Assistance:
Up to $8,000 reimbursement

Geographic Locations:
Bartow, FL (Polk County)

The Law Office of the Public Defender for Florida’s Tenth Judicial Circuit—serving Polk, Highlands, and Hardee Counties is seeking passionate, driven trial attorneys to join our dedicated team of advocates in Bartow, FL. Our circuit has a rich legacy of legal innovation and public service. Established in 1911, the Tenth Judicial Circuit has been home to some of Florida’s most storied legal minds and continues to carry that legacy forward in its commitment to justice for all.

Bartow, the seat of our circuit, has long stood as a hub of legal excellence. Home to the historic Polk County Courthouse—an architectural gem dating back to 1909—this region is steeped in the traditions that shape Florida law. Step into a role where history inspires advocacy and courtroom courage is part of the culture.

• Graduating 3
  
  Ls, recent graduates, active members of The Florida Bar in good standing, or attorneys licensed in another state who are willing to relocate to Florida and sit for the Florida Bar exam
• Willingness to relocate to the Tenth Circuit or surrounding areas
• Excellent courtroom advocacy skills
• Strong case management skills in a high-volume practice

As an Assistant Public Defender, you won’t just sit behind a desk—you’ll own your cases and advocate fiercely in court
. Your role will include:

• Representing indigent clients in misdemeanor, felony, or juvenile matters
• Handling court appearances including arraignments, pretrial hearings, trials, and sentencing
• Interviewing clients and witnesses, and conducting jail visits as needed, with remote jail visits as an option
• Evaluating evidence, researching legal issues, and drafting motions and pleadings
• Making critical decisions on bail, custody, competency, and use of expert witnesses

We are an aggressive trial office that believes the best way to grow great lawyers is by giving them real responsibility early. You will get into the courtroom. You will have autonomy. And you will have the support and mentorship to become the trial lawyer you were meant to be.

• Strategically located between major hubs like Tampa and Orlando
• Less congested and more affordable than major metropolitan areas
• Quick access to Florida’s beaches, theme parks, and natural springs
• High quality schools, beautiful historic downtowns, and tight-knit communities
• Attractions like Bok Tower Gardens, Legoland, and the Detroit Tigers spring training
• World-class fishing, hiking, and outdoor recreation across hundreds of lakes and parks

As a full-time state employee, you’ll enjoy a robust benefits package including:

• Paid vacation, sick leave, holidays, and a personal day
• State Group Insurance coverage options, including health, life, dental, vision, and supplemental insurance options
• Florida Retirement System (FRS) participation with employer contributions
• Tuition waivers

For a more complete list of benefits, visit:

Submit your résumé and cover letter to pd10email with "Trial APD Position" in the subject line.