How to Become a PAO Lawyer in the Philippines (2025)

Thinking of joining the Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) as a lawyer in the Philippines? Whether you’re a fresh bar passer or a law student eyeing public service, becoming a PAO lawyer is both a noble and strategic career path.

This updated guide explains what a PAO lawyer is, the qualifications you need, how to apply, and how much you can earn. It also breaks down what you can expect in terms of responsibilities—and whether this path is right for you.

What Is a PAO Lawyer?

A PAO lawyer is a government attorney working under the Public Attorney’s Office, which provides free legal services to indigent Filipinos. Their primary duty is to represent individuals who cannot afford private counsel in both criminal and civil proceedings.

In legal terms, PAO lawyers fulfill the constitutional right to legal representation for those who would otherwise be unrepresented in court.

Source: Public Attorney’s Office (PAO)

PAO Lawyer Requirements: Who Can Apply?

If you’re aspiring to join PAO as a legal officer, here are the minimum qualifications you need to meet:

Must be a Filipino citizen.
Must be a member of the Philippine Bar.
Must have passed the Civil Service Professional Examination or its equivalent.
Must meet the experience and eligibility criteria based on the position applied for.

Rule of Thumb: All PAO positions require bar eligibility.

Why it matters: Without your Bar results and proof of Civil Service eligibility, your application won’t even be screened. These documents are non-negotiable for Legal Officer roles.

How to Apply as a PAO Lawyer in the Philippines

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to become a PAO lawyer:

Step 1: Monitor PAO’s official job postings

Openings are regularly posted at pao.gov.ph and on the CSC Job Portal.

Step 2: Submit the following documents

Letter of Intent
Personal Data Sheet (CS Form No. 212)
Transcript of Records
Bar Rating and Certificate of Good Standing from the IBP
Civil Service Eligibility Certificate
NBI Clearance and Medical Certificate

Step 3: Pass the interview and screening process

Applicants will be vetted based on merit, commitment to public service, and legal proficiency.

Step 4: Appointment and onboarding

Once approved, you’ll be given an appointment as Legal Officer I (or higher, depending on your experience).

Duties and Responsibilities of a PAO Lawyer

As a PAO lawyer, your core responsibilities include:

Representing indigent clients in criminal and civil cases
Handling labor disputes, administrative cases, and quasi-judicial proceedings
Drafting pleadings, motions, and legal opinions
Assisting clients in legal counseling, mediation, and other out-of-court settlements
Attending court hearings, arraignments, and preliminary investigations

How Much Is the Salary of a PAO Lawyer?

The base salary of PAO lawyers is governed by the Salary Standardization Law (SSL).

Position	Salary Grade	Monthly Salary (Approx.)
Legal Officer I	SG 18	₱46,725
Legal Officer II	SG 19	₱51,357
Public Attorney III	SG 21	₱63,997
Public Attorney IV	SG 23	₱76,357

Reference: Salary Standardization Law of 2019 and DBM Salary Schedule 2024

Why Work as a PAO Lawyer?

Choosing to work with PAO comes with both professional and moral rewards:

Direct impact on access to justice
Stability as a government employee
Opportunities for continuing legal education (CLE)
Training in litigation, legal aid, and grassroots advocacy

If you are passionate about public service and defending the rights of marginalized communities, this role is a natural fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is PAO’s main purpose?

To provide free legal assistance to indigent individuals in the Philippines, as part of their constitutional right to due process.

What cases can PAO handle?

Criminal, civil, labor, administrative, family law, and quasi-judicial cases—especially those involving indigent litigants.

Are PAO lawyers free?

Yes. Their services are free of charge, although clients may need to prove indigency through income documents.

How much is the salary of a PAO lawyer?

Entry-level PAO lawyers (Legal Officer I) start at ₱46,000+ per month under the Salary Standardization Law.

Can a PAO lawyer notarize documents?

Yes, if they are commissioned as notaries public.

Who appoints PAO lawyers?

Appointments are made by the Public Attorney’s Office through the Department of Justice, following Civil Service rules.

Key Takeaways

PAO lawyers serve indigent Filipinos, ensuring their constitutional right to legal counsel.
To apply, you must be a licensed lawyer, pass the Civil Service Exam, and go through the PAO application process.
PAO lawyers enjoy competitive government salaries and play a major role in upholding access to justice.