San Mateo County Private Defender Program
40+
Total Staff
30+
Attorneys
8,000+
Annual Caseload
1
Open Positions
About
San Mateo County uses a private defender program model instead of a traditional public defender office.
Strategic Career Intelligence
Specializations
Career Pathways
Experience Value
Unique private defender model provides a blend of public defense mission with private practice structure. Excellent for attorneys considering transition to solo practice.
Specialty Courts
Holistic Defense Services
Open Positions(1)
View AllDeputy Public Defender
Salary Ranges
| Level | Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Entry Level | $100,000-$115,000 |
| Mid-Career | $120,000-$150,000 |
| Senior | $155,000-$185,000 |
| Leadership | $190,000-$240,000 |
Budget & Funding Intelligence
Total Budget
$12M
Primary Sources
2025-01-01
Figures cited: $12M Private Defender Program budget
Budget Trend
= StableSan Mateo's private defender model is well-established and consistently funded through the county general fund.
Quick Info
- County
- San Mateo
- Region
- Bay Area
- Case Management
- Defender Data
- Caseload/Attorney
- ~267
- Phone
- (650) 363-4570
- Website
- Visit
Union Representation
Non-union workplace
Benefits
- CalPERS Retirement
- Health, Dental & Vision Insurance
- PSLF-Eligible
- Paid CLE
- Generous PTO
Funding Sources
- San Mateo County General Fund
- State Subvention (AB 2302)
- Federal grants
Find Your Role Here
Take a quick career screener to see how well you match with San Mateo County Private Defender Program and get personalized role suggestions.
Take Career ScreenerReady to Defend Those Who Need It Most?
Whether you're an attorney looking for your next role, building your defense career, or an office with positions to fill — we're here to connect you.