CANTON — Brian D. Pilatzke needed less than a year to win the St. Lawrence County public defender's job.

The Albany native who stepped up to lead the department in 2006 was endorsed 13-1 Monday by the legislative Finance Committee. His appointment is expected June 2.

Mr. Pilatzke, 27, was made acting public defender in August after taking the reins when Michael G. Bass resigned to run for district attorney in Cayuga County. Lawmakers were hesitant to put Mr. Pilatzke in charge because he had less than two years' experience, so they gave him the interim tag and a $55,000 salary. They intended to give him a year to prove he can handle the department.

"He's done an outstanding job in nine months," said Legislator Vernon D. "Sam" Burns, D-Ogdensburg.

Mr. Pilatzke joined the public defender's office in January 2006. He graduated from Albany Law School in 2005.

His main goal, like his predecessors, is finding and retaining qualified attorneys. He's hired three attorneys, including two with more than 20 years' experience. The department's seven attorney positions are filled, which is a rarity because of frequent turnover.

The appointment comes with a $71,000 salary.