public defender

noun

: a lawyer usually holding public office whose duty is to defend accused persons unable to pay for legal assistance

Examples of public defender in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
He is being represented by a public defender and undertook a cognitive evaluation this week. Liam Quinn, People.com, 10 July 2025 Vickers said many camping cases are resolved during the person’s initial appearance, which means a public defender is never assigned. Christie Zizo, The Orlando Sentinel, 2 July 2025 Crosby, 37, has been represented by a federal public defender since being charged with federal crimes in October 2023. Kevin Grasha, The Enquirer, 2 July 2025 Soliman was being represented by public defenders who do not comment on their cases to news media. Danielle Wallace, FOXNews.com, 30 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for public defender

Word History

First Known Use

1822, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of public defender was in 1822

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Cite this Entry

“Public defender.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/public%20defender. Accessed 15 Jul. 2025.

Legal Definition

public defender

noun
: a lawyer usually holding public office who represents criminal defendants unable to pay for legal assistance

More from Merriam-Webster on public defender

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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