California Code, Government Code - GOV § 27704

(a) The board of supervisors shall appoint a public defender who shall hold office until the first Monday in January following the next general election of county officers.

(b) The first election of a public defender shall be held at the first general election of county officials after the establishment of the office.

(c) The term of office of the public defender is four years from and after the first Monday in January following his election.