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   The Jackson County Public Defender’s Office is accepting applications for a full-time Assistant Public Defender position.

    Applicant must be a law school graduate and licensed to practice law in Illinois. Previous professional experience in criminal law is required. A successful applicant must have acceptable communication and organizational skills. This is an entry level position in a high volume office. Salary is commensurate with experience, with a range of $55,000-$90,000 per year. Qualified persons may apply by emailing or mailing a cover letter, resume, and list of 3 references to:

Celeste A. Korando
Jackson County Chief Public Defender
1008 Locust Street
Murphysboro, IL 62966
cak@jacksonco.net
618-687-7250

JOB SUMMARY:

The McHenry County Public Defender's office has an opening for an Assistant Public Defender.  This full-time position is located in the McHenry County Government Center in Woodstock.  The Assistant Public Defender Attorney provides legal services to indigent defendants and respondents in criminal felony, misdemeanor, juvenile and certain civil proceedings as appointed by the Court.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:  

• Prepare written motions, briefs, orders, and other legal documents.
• Provide legal representation to adult indigent defendants in criminal cases.
• Provide legal representation to indigent petitioned persons in civil involuntary commitment and involuntary treatment cases.
• Provide legal representation to indigent petitioned persons in civil sexually violent commitments.
• Conduct adversarial hearings including bench and jury trials.
• Negotiate and enter pleas by reviewing charges, police reports, criminal complaints and records.
• Prepare orders for court supervision, conditional discharge, or probation.
• Instruct clients how to set up services to comply with sentencing requirements.
• Prepare for trial by notifying and reviewing witnesses and clients.
• Appear in court with criminal defendants on a daily basis (including weekends and holidays).
• Conduct legal research.
• Interacts with staff, elected officials and the general public in person or by telephone in order to respond to inquiries, receive complaints, and resolve problems.
• Performs other related duties as assigned. 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:

Education and Experience:

• Juris Doctorate Degree

Licenses and Certifications:

• Applicants must be licensed to practice law in the State of Illinois  and in good standing with the Illinois State Bar

Must be able to successfully pass a background screening.

Please apply at www.mchenrycountyil.gov  and/or contact Mark Cook (815) 334-4168.

McHenry County is an equal opportunity employer.  No applicant for employment shall be discriminated against because of age, race, color, religion, sex, marital status, national origin, Veteran status or disability.   

Do you have a passion to be the change and a desire for immediate courtroom experience? Join the Kane County Public Defender’s Office representing diverse clients charged with traffic, criminal and juvenile matters.

Qualifications:

• JD from an accredited law school
• Licensed to practice law in Illinois or anticipating admission to Illinois bar
• Ability to think critically about the merits of a case
• Excels in fast paced work environment
• Skilled multitasker
• Creative problem solver
• Ability to effectively communicate with clients, prosecutors and judges
• Patience. . .lots of patience

Benefits:

• Qualified Employer for Public Service Loan Forgiveness for Federal Student Loans
• Complete health insurance benefits package including medical, dental, vision, FSA and IMRF
• Paid time off for holidays (14!)
• In house CLE
• Hybrid working environment
• Salary $75,000

No experience necessary. You will be welcomed and mentored by a team of experienced public defenders who will help you hone your skills. KCPDO is an eclectic group that thrives on collaboration. We are a creative group both in and out of the courtroom and know how to balance work and life.

We’re the last line of defense. If Goliath’s on your back, we’re the guys with the slingshots. If you have what it takes to stand with the marginalized members of our community, join us and send your cover letter, resume, and references to Britt Hawkins, Misdemeanor Chief of the Kane County Public Defender’s Office. Bhawkins@kanepublicdefender.org. We won’t ghost you. 

Position Announcement 2401
Research and Writing Specialist

The Federal Public Defender for the Northern and Southern Districts of Iowa is accepting applications for a Research and Writing Specialist to be stationed in our Cedar Rapids office.

ABOUT US: The Federal Public Defender Office operates under authority of the Criminal Justice Act (18 U.S.C. § 3006A) to represent individuals who are unable to afford counsel and are prosecuted in our federal courts. Our office is committed to serving the distinct needs of these individuals with a diverse group of dedicated professionals who collaborate with, listen to, and advocate on behalf of one another. We welcome and value individuals of any race, color, religion, ethnicity, national origin, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, disability, age, veteran status, and other status protected by law. Click here for more information about our office.

JOB DESCRIPTION: This is an ideal position for an attorney with strong research and writing skills and a commitment to federal criminal defense work. The Research and Writing Specialist writes briefs, motions, petitions for certiorari, and legal memoranda for review and filing by the Federal Public Defender and staff attorneys. General duties include examining, analyzing, and researching records and issues; performing legal research and preparing legal documents; and assisting staff with all aspects of case preparation, training, and continuing legal education and supervision of other research staff as appropriate. The Research and Writing Specialist does not ordinarily sign pleadings or make court appearances, but may be asked to do so in exceptional circumstances and with the authorization of the court. It is anticipated that the position will require travel throughout the state of Iowa to attend trials and hearings to assist with research and writing needs that arise. The position may also require travel to assist with oral arguments before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit, typically in St. Louis, Missouri, or St. Paul, Minnesota.

REQUIREMENTS AND QUALIFICATIONS: Applicants must have 1) a law school degree (J.D.) with admission and good standing before the highest court of any state; 2) one year of law experience, criminal preferred; 3) knowledge of federal criminal law and procedures; 4) outstanding legal research and writing skills; 5) strong typing skills; and 6) a strong desire to be a team-player and an excellent coworker. 

SELECTION CRITERIA: The successful applicant will have an established capacity or clearly demonstrated aptitude for excellence in criminal defense practice, a commitment to the representation of indigent accused persons, and a reputation for personal integrity. Applicant must also possess the ability to communicate effectively with clients, witnesses, staff, colleagues, and other individuals that they will come in contact with as part of their employment. Experience with and a working knowledge of the federal sentencing guidelines is preferred. Experience as a federal judicial clerk is also an asset, but it is not required.

BACKGROUND CHECK: The selected candidate will be subject to a background check as a condition of employment. Employment will be considered provisional until a satisfactory background check is confirmed.

SALARY AND BENEFITS: This is a full-time position with a starting salary range of grade JSP-9/1, $59,966, to grade JSP-15/1, $143,736, commensurate with experience. Benefits include health and life insurance, retirement, and the Thrift Savings Plan. Some telework will likely be authorized, depending on the successful candidate’s experience and other considerations. This position is subject to mandatory Electronic Funds Transfer payment of net pay.

HOW TO APPLY: Electronically submit cover letter, resume and a writing sample in a single PDF by June 21, 2024 to Denise_Fest@fd.org. The email subject line must read: RWS Position Announcement 2401. The successful candidate must be able to commence employment no later than autumn 2024. Only applicants considered for an interview will be contacted. Position open until filled. No telephone calls please.     

The Federal Public Defender is an equal opportunity employer.

Job Title:                    Assistant Public Defender (Full-Time)

Department:              Public Defender

Reports To:                Chief Public Defender
FLSA Status:               Exempt
Salary:                         $65,000 year

SUMMARY: To represent the indigent in criminal charges.  To represent minors and/or their parents pertaining to allegations of delinquency and abuse and neglect.

PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following.  Other duties may be assigned.

1. Uphold the constitution of the United States and the Constitution of Illinois by insuring that a client is afforded all of his/her legal rights and obligations.
2. Enforce the Statutes of the State of Illinois by scrutinizing police reports to insure that charges are properly alleged and brought forth.
3. Actively engage with the client.  Discuss all aspects of the case and explain legal procedure in order to allow the client to make informed decisions.
4. Investigate possible defenses.  Interview witnesses, subpoena documents and challenge information provided by the State to facilitate a just outcome.
5. File appropriate pleadings regarding potential violations of Case Law and Statute.
6. Litigate Motions to Dismiss Indictments, Suppress Evidence, Suppress Identification and so on.
7. Perform jury and bench trials.
8. Work with the prosecutor’s office to effectuate the best outcome for your client.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:

Minimum requirements:  Juris Doctor and good standing with the ARDC.

Posting date:                                                        May 01, 2024
Application deadline:                                         Until filled

RESUME : Submit resume and cover letter to Carmen Lewis, Office Manager, Kankakee County Public Defender’s Office, 470 E. Merchant #210, Kankakee, IL  60901 or e-mail to clewis@k3county.net.

Job Title:                    Assistant Public Defender (Part-Time)

Department:              Public Defender

Reports To:                Chief Public Defender
FLSA Status:               Exempt
Salary:                         $35,000 yearly commensurate with experience.

SUMMARY: To represent the indigent in criminal charges.  To represent minors and/or their parents pertaining to allegations of delinquency and abuse and neglect.

PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following.  Other duties may be assigned.

1. Uphold the constitution of the United States and the Constitution of Illinois by insuring that a client is afforded all of his/her legal rights and obligations.
2. Enforce the Statutes of the State of Illinois by scrutinizing police reports to insure that charges are properly alleged and brought forth.
3. Actively engage with the client.  Discuss all aspects of the case and explain legal procedure in order to allow the client to make informed decisions.
4. Investigate possible defenses.  Interview witnesses, subpoena documents and challenge information provided by the State to facilitate a just outcome.
5. File appropriate pleadings regarding potential violations of Case Law and Statute.
6. Litigate Motions to Dismiss Indictments, Suppress Evidence, Suppress Identification and so on.
7. Perform jury and bench trials.
8. Work with the prosecutor’s office to effectuate the best outcome for your client.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:

Minimum requirements:  Juris Doctor and good standing with the ARDC.

Posting date:                                                        May 01, 2024
Application deadline:                                         Until filled

RESUME : Submit resume and cover letter to Carmen Lewis, Office Manager, Kankakee County Public Defender’s Office, 470 E. Merchant #210, Kankakee, IL  60901 or e-mail to clewis@k3county.net.

McDonough County Illinois is seeking a full time Chief Public Defender beginning May 20,2024. The position’s salary is set at the State of Illinois rate for full time public defenders for counties with population less than 35,000 (currently $137,621 per year.) IMRF retirement and health insurance are provided.

Applicants must hold a valid Illinois licence to practice law and have been a practicing attorney with a minimum three years of criminal law experience with five years or more experience preferred; must be a resident of McDonough County or willing to relocate.

Duties include:

• full time criminal defense of indigent clients in McDonough County
• management of the public defender’s office and its employees
• preparing and managing the office’s budget
• periodic reporting to the county board and application for and management of grants. 

Resumes will be accepted until the position is filled. Please direct resumes and letters of inquiry to:

          McDonough County Judges’ Chambers
          1 Courthouse Square
          Macomb, IL 61455

McDonough County is an equal opportunity employer.

Position Title:  Assistant Public Defender

Department:  Public Defender Office

Hiring Salary:  $82,500

Instructions for Applying:  To Apply, go to https://www.dupagecounty.gov/job_detail_T10_R217.php

Job Posting

Assistant Public Defender

The Knox County Public Defender's Office is accepting applications for a full-time Assistant Public Defender position.   Duties will include the representation of clients in felony, misdemeanor, traffic, juvenile abuse and neglect, and juvenile delinquency cases.

Applicants must either be licensed to practice law in the State of Illinois or eligible to practice under Illinois Supreme Court Rule 711.   Applicants should have strong research, writing, and negotiation skills, the ability to work well with others, a strong work ethic, and a commitment to public service and the representation of individuals who are unable to afford counsel.

Salary will be commensurate with experience in the range of $65,000.00 to $75,000.00.  Compensation package includes insurance, paid vacation, and participation in Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF).   

Qualified persons may apply by faxing or emailing a cover letter, resume, and list of two references to:

David M. Hansen
Knox County Chief Public Defender's Office 
200 South Cherry Street, 2^nd Floor
Galesburg, Illinois 61401
TELEPHONE: (309) 345-3876 FAX: (309) 341-1961
EMAIL: dhansen@knoxcountyil.gov
WEBSITE:  https://co.knox.il.us/public-defender

Assistant Public Defender II

Under general supervision, perform a variety of responsible professional, public defense legal work, applying professional legal principles and practices to a variety of complex legal assignments in an assigned operational area. Work is performed at the full performance level with considerable professional independence, discretion, mature judgement, and latitude in researching, preparing, and routinely defending indigent individuals in court on juvenile or misdemeanor charges. Work involves the use of significant writing, analytical, and communications skills. Assignments may involve planning, overseeing, and directing the activities of legal office support, para-professional, or professional staff, as needed. Work is reviewed by a professional supervisor or the Public Defender through conferences, and results obtained.

https://il-mcleancounty.civicplushrms.com/careers/JobDetail.aspx?enc=QPQDKqwXNuJybHyCBjvzpyTFUtS63n4DAcQ6gfzlT/DSO/RHeqxNw3TfeJs58AmS

The DeKalb County Public Defender’s Office is seeking an attorney licensed to practice law in Illinois to fill a position as an Assistant Public Defender. Duties will include the representation of clients in felony criminal and traffic matters. 

Candidates must possess integrity, a desire to represent those unable to afford counsel, and strong research, writing and negotiation skills.  Applicants will need to be able to manage a caseload effectively, communicate with clients, opposing counsel and judges and possess the ability to effectively problem solve and work well both individually and in a team atmosphere.

Starting salary is commensurate with experience. Benefits include health and dental insurance, paid vacation, participation in IMRF, and Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness* The position will remain open until filled.

We are an equal opportunity employer and are actively engaged in creating and maintaining a work environment characterized by diversity, equity and inclusion.

Please e-mail or mail a cover letter, resume, and a list of three references to:

         Charles A. Criswell, Jr.
         DeKalb County Public Defender
         DeKalb County Public Defender’s Office
         133 West State Street, Sycamore, IL 60178
         ccriswell@dekalbcounty.org

* See Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Guidelines

The DeKalb County Public Defender’s Office is seeking an attorney licensed to practice law in Illinois to fill a position as an Assistant Public Defender. Duties will include the representation of clients in misdemeanor criminal and traffic matters as well as in juvenile abuse/neglect and delinquency cases.

Candidates must possess integrity, a desire to represent those unable to afford counsel, and strong research, writing and negotiation skills.  Applicants will need to be able to manage a caseload effectively, communicate with clients, opposing counsel and judges and possess the ability to effectively problem solve and work well both individually and in a team atmosphere.

Starting salary is $65,000 per year. Benefits include health and dental insurance, paid vacation, participation in IMRF, and Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness* The position will remain open until filled.

We are an equal opportunity employer and are actively engaged in creating and maintaining a work environment characterized by diversity, equity and inclusion.

Please e-mail or mail a cover letter, resume, and a list of three references to:

          Charles A. Criswell, Jr.
          DeKalb County Public Defender
          DeKalb County Public Defender’s Office
          133 West State Street, Sycamore, IL 60178
          ccriswell@dekalbcounty.org

* See Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Guidelines

POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT – EXPERIENCED ATTORNEY:

The Sangamon County Public Defender’s Office is seeking an attorney experienced in criminal law for a full-time assistant felony position. Applicants must be licensed to practice law in the State of Illinois. Previous professional experience in criminal law is required, with a minimum of 3 years of post- law school practice preferred. Candidates must be skilled in trial advocacy, with trial experience, and have excellent communication and organizational skills. A reputation for integrity and a commitment to the representation of those unable to afford counsel are qualities required for this position.

Salary is $70,000.00-$101,000.00, dependent on experience and qualifications. Benefits include health and dental insurance, paid vacation, and participation in the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund’s pension plan.

ENTRY-LEVEL ATTORNEY:

The Sangamon County Public Defender’s Office is seeking an attorney for an entry-level position. Recently licensed attorneys, those waiting to be sworn in, and graduating law students planning to take the Illinois Bar Examination in February or July 2024 are encouraged to apply. The successful candidate will commence work in the summer or fall of 2024.

Depending on experience and qualifications, the successful candidate will be assigned to some or all of the following matters: traffic, misdemeanor, juvenile delinquency, and other duties as assigned. The office will offer extensive hands-on training and mentorship. The position will offer the opportunity for client-centered practice and court experience, including client conferences, court hearings, negotiations, pretrial detention matters, legal research and drafting, and trials. Each day presents different challenges, unique questions, and opportunities to learn and serve our community.

A reputation for integrity and a commitment to the representation of those unable to afford counsel are qualities required for this position. Full-time assistant public defenders may not engage in the private practice of law. Salary is dependent on experience and qualifications. Benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance, life insurance, deferred compensation plan, and participation in the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund’s pension plan. The position is open until filled.

The positions are open until filled. To be considered, please mail or email a cover letter, resume, and a list of two references to Craig Reiser at Craig.Reiser@sangamonil.gov or at the Sangamon County Public Defender’s Office, 200 South Ninth Street, Room 301, Springfield, IL 62701.

Position Title:  Assistant Public Defender

Department:  Public Defender Office

Salary (Optional):  $65,000

Brief Job Description:  To provide legal defense for indigent clients in criminal cases. Represent parents in the juvenile abuse and neglect court room.

Education Requirements:  Law degree and licensed in Illinois; have legal research experience and have exposure and willingness to conduct trial preparation and litigation work.

Additional Comments:  Will consider applications of recent law school graduates awaiting bar results.

Instructions for Applying:  To Apply, go to https://www.vscyberhosting3.com/livingston/

OR send your resume with cover letter to:  

Livingston County Public Defender
110 N. Main St.
Pontiac, IL 61764
mmetoyer@livingstoncountyil.gov

Notice of Vacancy

Job Classification:  Assistant Public Defender (Juvenile or Misdemeanor Division)

Entry Level Attorney:

The Winnebago County Public Defender’s Office is seeking attorneys licensed to practice law in Illinois or recent law school graduates who anticipate being admitted to practice law in the State of Illinois shortly to fill an entry level position as an Assistant Public Defender. Duties will include the representation of clients in criminal, traffic, juvenile abuse and neglect and juvenile delinquency cases.

Candidates must possess integrity and a desire to represent those unable to afford counsel. Training will be provided by the office, but prior experience in a criminal law firm or public defender’s office is preferred. The Winnebago County Public Defender’s office has a strong reputation for providing excellent legal representation to individuals who may not otherwise have access to quality defense services.

Benefits the Winnebago County Public Defender's Office offers are:

1. Professional Growth: The office offers a supportive and collaborative environment that fosters professional growth.  Attorneys have the opportunity to work alongside experienced attorneys, gain courtroom experience, and handle a wide range of challenging cases.

2. Social Impact: Working at the Winnebago County Public Defender's Office allows attorneys a chance to make a real difference in the community by providing crucial legal representation to individuals who are facing difficult circumstances. They will contribute to ensuring access to justice for all members of society.

3. Skill Development: Attorneys will enhance their legal skills and develop a deep understanding of criminal law and defense strategies. The diverse caseload will expose them to various aspects of the legal system, allowing for well-rounded growth as legal professionals.

4. Networking Opportunities: Joining the Winnebago County Public Defender's Office opens doors to a vast network of legal professionals and potential mentors.  Attorneys can build connections that will prove valuable throughout their careers.  In fact, three of the last five attorneys selected to be Winnebago County Associate Judges got their start in the Winnebago County Public Defender’s Office.

Starting salary is $63,000 per year. Benefits include health and dental insurance, paid vacation and participation in IMRF. The position will remain open until filled.

We are an equal opportunity employer and are actively engaged in creating and maintaining a work environment characterized by diversity, equity and inclusion.

Please e-mail or mail a cover letter, resume, and a list of three references to:

Nick Zimmerman
Winnebago County Public Defender
Winnebago County Public Defender’s Office
400 West State Street, Suite 340
Rockford, IL  61101
nzimmerman@17thcircuit.illinoiscourts.gov

Experienced Attorney:

The Winnebago County Public Defender’s Office is seeking an attorney experienced in criminal law for an open Assistant Public Defender position. Applicants must be currently licensed to practice law in the State of Illinois. Prior criminal law experience is preferred, with three to five years of previous experience in litigation including legal research, motion practice, jury and bench trials and other courtroom duties necessary to the practice of criminal law.

Candidates must possess integrity and a desire to represent those unable to afford counsel. Candidates must be able to manage a caseload including effectively communicating with clients, opposing counsel and Judges. The Winnebago County Public Defender’s office has a strong reputation for providing excellent legal representation to individuals who may not otherwise have access to quality defense services.

Benefits the Winnebago County Public Defender's Office offers:

1. Professional Growth: The office offers a supportive and collaborative environment that fosters professional growth.  Attorneys have the opportunity to work alongside experienced attorneys, gain courtroom experience, and handle a wide range of challenging cases.

2. Social Impact: Working at the Winnebago County Public Defender's Office allows attorneys a chance to make a real difference in the community by providing crucial legal representation to individuals who are facing difficult circumstances. They will contribute to ensuring access to justice for all members of society.

3. Skill Development: Attorneys will enhance their legal skills and develop a deep understanding of criminal law and defense strategies. The diverse caseload will expose them to various aspects of the legal system, allowing for well-rounded growth as legal professionals.

4. Networking Opportunities: Joining the Winnebago County Public Defender's Office opens doors to a vast network of legal professionals and potential mentors.  Attorneys can build connections that will prove valuable throughout their careers.  In fact, three of the last five attorneys selected to be Winnebago County Associate Judges got their start in the Winnebago County Public Defender’s Office. 

Salary is dependent on experience and qualifications. Benefits include health and dental insurance, paid vacation and participation in IMRF. The position will remain open until filled.

We are an equal opportunity employer and are actively engaged in creating and maintaining a work environment characterized by diversity, equity and inclusion.

Please e-mail or mail a cover letter, resume, and a list of three references to:

Nick Zimmerman
Winnebago County Public Defender
Winnebago County Public Defender’s Office
400 West State Street, Suite 340
Rockford, IL  61101
nzimmerman@17thcircuit.illinoiscourts.gov