What is the job of a public defender?

I'm interested in law and I've heard about public defenders. What exactly do they do and how do they differ from private attorneys? Is this a good career path if I want to work in public service?

Public defenders work in the legal system defending individuals who can't afford their own legal counsel. These clients are typically those accused of crimes who could potentially face severe penalties or time in jail.

One of the most significant differences between public defenders and private attorneys is that public defenders are appointed to represent clients who cannot afford to hire a private attorney, while private attorneys typically represent clients who can pay for their services.

In terms of daily tasks, public defenders will prepare and present their clients' defense, gather and examine evidence, and negotiate with prosecutors for plea deals. They also offer counsel to their clients about the legal process, fulfill legal procedures, and represent clients in court.

It's also important to note that a public defender's workload can be quite high. Because their services are often utilized by a large section of the population, they regularly handle a wide number of cases. While this can be challenging, it also offers ample opportunity to gain significant experience in a variety of legal situations.

As for whether this career path is optimal for someone wanting to work in public service - yes, it definitely is. As a public defender, you have the chance to provide legal help to individuals who might not otherwise have access, ensuring that all citizens, regardless of their financial situation, can exercise their right to legal defense. This kind of work can bring a lot of satisfaction if you're passionate about equality and social justice.

However, it's also essential to remember that this role can be quite taxing, with high caseloads, considerable pressure, and at times, emotional strain, especially in cases involving severe crimes. Before embarking on this career path, you need to be sure you’re comfortable operating under these conditions. But, if you're committed to serving the public and ensuring legal rights for all, it can be a very rewarding and fulfilling career path.