How to answer why do you want to be a public defender?

Asked by: Mr. Ignatius Lubowitz V  |  Last update: October 10, 2025
Score: 4.1/5 (17 votes)

Example answers for "Why do you want to be a public defender?"
  1. "I want to work as a public defender because I have always felt strongly about helping the less fortunate. ...
  2. "I want to be a public defender because I am passionate about the U.S. legal and justice systems.

Why would someone want to become a public defender?

There are a variety of reasons why someone would become a Public Defender. Probably, the most common reason is that new lawyers who just passed the bar exam want a job, and can gain valuable experience in trials and dealing with clients. They eventually go into private practice.

What makes a good public defender?

Ultimately, the decision regarding whether to go to trial rests with the client. Finally, a good public defender handles pressure well, is confident, possesses well-developed problem solving skills, is comfortable thinking on his or her feet, and is a committed and zealous advocate for his or her clients.

Why do you want to be a prosecutor interview question?

You can also highlight your research and writing experience on criminal law topics. Why do you want to be a prosecutor? answer must be genuine. and thoughtful articulating what experience you have had that has formed your desire to pursue this path.

What is a public defender interview?

Interviewing for a public defender job is uniquely challenging — interviews can be confrontational or hostile, usually involve on-the-spot hypotheticals, and at the panel stage, may include a simulated client interview, arraignment, cross-examination, or opening statement or summation.

My answer to "how do you defend someone you think is guilty"

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Can you be denied a public defender?

Defendants who cannot afford legal counsel only have the right to free legal counsel if the charge carries a risk of a jail or prison sentence. Thus, a defendant charged with a minor offense such as a traffic violation will probably not be appointed a public defender.

What are your strengths law interview?

Identify key strengths and experiences using real, relevant examples. Don't just say that you're a great problem solver; instead tell the interviewer how you demonstrated this skill in a student mooting competition.

What to say when someone asks why you want to be a lawyer?

How to answer why you wanted to become a lawyer
  • Focus on your strengths and skills. ...
  • Describe a personal experience that inspired you. ...
  • Give examples of your past success and how it motivates you. ...
  • Relate your values and philosophy to the job. ...
  • Discuss how you plan to contribute to the firm.

What kind of person makes a good prosecutor?

Sensitivity, a good memory, and close attention to detail are also marks of good prosecutors. Above all, a reputation for fundamental fairness and honesty as well as credibility and trustworthiness must be nurtured. Prosecutors must be comfortable with the myriad of imperfections in the criminal justice system.

Why do you want to be a detective interview answer?

Example: "I recognize what a difficult and stressful career law enforcement is, though it truly is my passion. I have a keen sense of detail and am intrigued by problem-solving. The more complex a case is, the more I thrive and persevere to solve it.

Why are public defenders quitting?

But the demand for public defenders keeps rising and public defenders are leaving their positions, in record numbers, due to burnout, low wages, staggering workloads and crippling student debt.

Who most benefits from public defenders?

Final answer: Defendants who cannot afford their own counsel most benefit from public defenders. They ensure that the constitutional right to legal representation is upheld.

What is an advantage of a public defender?

Advantage of Public Defenders

Public defenders often know the quirks and preferences of specific prosecutors and judges, and they can use this knowledge to better know how to move forward with a case.

What percent of cases do public defenders win?

While the success rate for other defense attorneys edged up only from 12% (2008-09 through 2018-19) to 13% (2019-20 through 2022-23), for public defenders it nearly doubled, soaring from 18% to 35%.

Why are prosecutors paid more than public defenders?

Due primarily to the political popularity of “tough on crime” platforms among legislatures, prosecutors enjoy greater resources, higher pay, and lighter workloads than their public defense counterparts.

Is prosecutor harder than lawyer?

Typically, the prosecutor will ask easy soft ball questions like “what did you see?” or “what did you do?” This style of questioning is called direct examination. Direct examination is completely different that cross examination. A prosecutor's job is easier than a defense attorney generally.

What qualities do you think a district attorney should have?

The power and authority that rests with the Office of the District Attorney is immense and therefore must at all times be exercised with the utmost degree of honesty, integrity, and fairness. The values and character traits that we possess in carrying out our important civic duty are very important.

Do public defenders work with prosecutors?

It is often the case that specific public defenders are assigned to the same courtrooms regularly dealing with the same judges and prosecutors.

How do you answer what is your weakness in a law interview?

“The example should be honest, but not overly personal, and is best framed in the context of a 'professional' weakness or mistake made in a workplace or academic setting,” says Kim McLeod, a firmwide hiring partner at Hunton & Williams.

Which subject is most important for law?

Any stream (Science, Commerce, or Humanities) can lead to a career in law. However, Humanities or Commerce might be particularly useful due to their emphasis on subjects like Economics, Business Studies, and Political Science, which are relevant to many areas of law.

What do you say when you want a lawyer?

While the police officers can appear intimidating, it is best to simply state you want your lawyer present before answering any further questions. The police may pressure you to cooperate, but you need to stand firm.

How do you nail a law interview?

Remain calm, composed, and focus on making logical sense.” “Realize that the law firm needs you as much as you need them. Don't come across as needy or having low self-esteem.” “Unlike interviews during law school, remember that the firm really needs help because they can't handle their workload.”

What are the three strengths of a lawyer?

Finding a lawyer with a combination of these three traits – expertise, genuine care, and tenacity – is key to having a successful legal partnership. These qualities not only ensure that your lawyer is highly capable but also dedicated to your case with the determination to fight for your rights.

What is your biggest weakness?

The best answers to the “biggest weakness” interview question
  1. Prioritization and time management. ...
  2. Timidity/Fear of public speaking. ...
  3. Difficulty asking for help. ...
  4. Lacking confidence at times or in certain areas. ...
  5. Maintaining a work-life balance.