To post a job opportunity, send an email to: PD Job Opportunities

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 2025 are encouraged to apply.

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. To be considered, please mail or email a cover letter, resume, and a list of two references to Sangamon County Public Defender Craig J. Reiser, 200 South Ninth Street, Room 301, Springfield, Illinois 62701 or via email to PDOffice@sangamonil.gov.

EXPERIENCED ATTORNEY:

The Sangamon County Public Defender’s Office is seeking an attorney for an open felony position. Applicants must be currently licensed to practice law in the State of Illinois. Professional experience in criminal law is required, with a minimum of 3 years of post-graduation practice preferred. A successful candidate must be skilled in trial advocacy, with 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. Full-time assistant public defenders may not engage in the private practice of law. Salary is $70,000-$105,000, dependent on experience and qualifications. Benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance, deferred compensation plans, and participation in the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund’s pension plan. The position is open until filled. To be considered, please mail or email a cover letter, resume, and a list of two references to Sangamon County Public Defender Craig J. Reiser, 200 South Ninth Street, Room 301, Springfield, Illinois 62701 or via email to PDOffice@sangamonil.gov.

CLIENT ADVOCATE:

The Sangamon County Public Defender’s Office is seeking a Client Advocate. The Client Advocate will be actively involved with Public Defender clients throughout the legal process. Job responsibilities include: conducting biopsychosocial interviews with clients and their families, identifying issues related to intellectual disability, mental health, substance abuse, and trauma, referring clients to experts, obtaining medical and treatment records, creating treatment plans for substance abuse and mental health clients, and assisting in securing treatment placements for clients in need of services.

Applicants must possess a Bachelor’s Degree from a four-year college or university with a major in social work or a related field.  A Master’s Degree in Social Work and/or one to three years of previous experience in the legal system are preferred. The Office provides on-site and ongoing training and encourages a work-life balance. The salary range is $50,000-$55,400 annually, depending on qualifications and experience. Benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance, deferred compensation plans, and participation in the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund’s pension plan. To be considered, please mail or email a cover letter, resume, and a list of two references to Sangamon County Public Defender Craig J. Reiser, 200 South Ninth Street, Room 301, Springfield, Illinois 62701 or via email to PDOffice@sangamonil.gov.

Sangamon County is an equal opportunity employer. EOE/AA

The Champaign County Public Defender’s Office is seeking an experienced criminal defense attorney to fill one full-time position as an assistant public defender in our felony division effective January 1, 2025. Job responsibilities include meeting with clients, conducting plea negotiations and jury trials, and assisting with arraignment court and detention hearings.

Applicants must be currently licensed to practice in the State of Illinois ideally with a minimum of 3 years of post-law school practice.  A successful applicant must be skilled in trial advocacy, communication, organization and technology.  Assistant public defenders are expected to competently represent indigent defendants, maintain communication with clients, research and file appropriate motions and negotiate plea agreements.

The Office provides on-site and ongoing training, encourages a work-life balance and offers an aggressive salary commensurate with experience.  Salary and compensation package includes insurance and participation in IMRF.  Salary range for the experienced felony attorney position is $54,990 to $94,633 dependent upon years licensed, qualifications and experience.

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and resume to  Elisabeth Pollock, Champaign County Public Defender, 101 E. Main, Urbana, IL  61801, or via email to epollock@champaigncountyil.gov.

Champaign County is an equal opportunity employer. EOE/AA

Application deadline: Position open until filled.

The Champaign County Public Defender’s Office is seeking applicants to fill one full-time position as an Assistant Public Defender. The opening is for an entry-level attorney in our traffic division.  Our attorneys appear in court daily representing clients in a variety of traffic matters, both misdemeanor and felony. There are opportunities for rapid advancement within the office once the requisite experience is obtained.

Recent graduates are encouraged to apply but all levels of experience will be considered.  Applicant must be currently licensed to practice law in the State of Illinois (or in receipt of a valid 711 license and pending bar results). Assistant public defenders are expected to competently represent indigent defendants, including maintaining communication with clients, researching and filing appropriate motions, negotiating plea agreements, and conducting jury trials.

The Office provides on-site and ongoing training, encourages a work-life balance and offers an aggressive salary commensurate with experience. Salary and compensation package includes insurance and participation in IMRF. The starting salary for an entry-level attorney with no experience is $62,000.00.

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and resume to Elisabeth Pollock, Champaign County Public Defender, 101 E. Main, Urbana, IL  61801, or via email to epollock@champaigncountyil.gov.

Champaign County is an equal opportunity employer. EOE/AA

Application deadline:  Position open until filled.

Job Posting

Assistant Public Defender

Position Opening: Assistant Public Defender

Position Title: Assistant Public Defender
Location: Coles County Public Defender’s Office, Charleston, IL
Projected Start Date: December 1, 2024

Position Overview

The Coles County Public Defender’s Office is seeking a dedicated and qualified attorney to join our team as an Assistant Public Defender. This position involves representing indigent individuals appointed by Circuit and Associate Judges in criminal and quasi-criminal matters. The role encompasses a variety of legal proceedings, including juvenile, mental health, misdemeanor, traffic, felony, and criminal contempt cases.

Key Responsibilities

As an Assistant Public Defender, your duties will include, but are not limited to:

• Interviewing clients and witnesses to gather case facts
• Conducting investigations on behalf of clients
• Preparing cases for trial, including evidence review and strategy development
• Representing defendants in all stages of legal proceedings
• Managing trials and hearings, including examining witnesses, presenting arguments, and preparing jury instructions
• Advising clients on legal rights, case merits, and settlement offers
• Analyzing and interpreting legal reports, records, and directives
• Adhering to professional, ethical, and legal standards in all aspects of work

Supervision

Reports to the Circuit and Associate Judges regarding case assignments and trial management.

Qualifications

• Education: Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an American Bar Association (ABA)-accredited law school
• Licensure: Licensed to practice law in Illinois and in good standing with the Attorney Registration and Disciplinary Commission (ARDC) of the Illinois Supreme Court

Employment Details

• Position Type: Full-time (no private practice permitted)
• Salary: Range from $70,000.00 up to $85,000.00, commensurate with experience
• Benefits:
  • Participation in the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF)
  • 14 paid holidays
  • Optional health insurance coverage
• Additional Duties: Participation in a rotating detention court schedule

Application Instructions

Interested applicants should submit a cover letter and resume. Please send applications to:

Duane A. Deters, Chief Public Defender
Coles County Public Defender’s Office
616 6th Street, Charleston, IL 61920
Email: ddeters@co.coles.il.us

The Coles County Public Defender’s Office employs three assistant public defenders, 1 full time administrative assistant, 1 part time administrative assistant, a part time investigator and a part time mitigation specialist and provides a collaborative work environment dedicated to serving the legal needs of the community.

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 $70,000 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

Kane County Public Defender’s Office Misdemeanor Division Attorney

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
• Currently licensed to practice law in Illinois or awaiting November 2024 swearing in
• 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 develop and 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. 

Assistant Public Defender III - Juvenile Division

Under the supervision of the Public Defender, litigates and performs a variety of public defense legal work, applying professional legal principles and practices to cases with emphasis on Juvenile Division (Abuse and Neglect) cases.  Work is performed with considerable professional independence, discretion, mature judgement, in representing indigent individuals in court.  Occasional duties may include Juvenile Delinquency, Felony, or Misdemeanor cases and other various assignments to support the office.  Work involves the use of significant writing, analytical, and communication skills to accomplish the work of the division.  Work is reviewed by the Public Defender through conferences for results obtained, the efficient direction of the division, and effective legal services provided.

https://il-mcleancounty.civicplushrms.com/careers/JobDetail.aspx?enc=QPQDKqwXNuJybHyCBjvzpwUGF/6R3zAHbzCQ5TyP2DPLXngWHOUWcFE2is4rgr3C

JOB POSTING
ASSISTANT PUBLIC DEFENDER - FULL TIME
SALARY RANGE: $70,000 to $75,000 (DEPENDING ON EXPERIENCE)
PLUS BENEFITS
START DATE 11/15/24
APPLICATION DEADLINE 10/31/24

The Livingston County Public Defender’s Office currently has an opening for a licensed defense attorney.  The Assistant Public Defender will provide legal defense to indigent clients in criminal and juvenile delinquency cases. And will represent parents in Juvenile Abuse and Neglect Cases.

Position Summary

Under the supervision of the Chief Public Defender, perform a variety of professional, public defense legal work, applying professional legal principles and practices to a variety of legal assignments.

DUTIES & ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

a.     Represent clients in court or before government agencies.
b.     Present evidence to defend clients in criminal or civil litigation.
c.     Select jurors, argue motions, meet with judges and question witnesses during the course of a trial.
d.     Study Constitution, statutes, decisions, regulations and ordinances of quasi-judicial bodies to determine ramifications for cases.
e.     Interpret laws, rulings and regulations for individuals.
f.      Present and summarize cases to judges and juries.
g.     Prepare legal briefs and opinions.
h.    Analyze the probable outcomes of cases, using knowledge of legal precedents.
i.      Examine legal data to determine advisability of defending lawsuit.
j.      Evaluate findings and develop strategies and arguments in preparation for presentation of cases.
k.     Gather evidence to formulate defense or to initiate legal actions, by such means as interviewing clients and witnesses to ascertain the facts of a case.
l.      Confer with colleagues with specialties in appropriate areas of legal issue to establish and verify bases for legal proceedings.

Required Qualifications:

Education and Experience:

a.         Graduation from an accredited law school, and some experience (0 to 10 years) in preparing and trying a variety of cases before the courts; or any equivalent combination of education and experience that would provide the above noted knowledge, skills and abilities.
b.         Licensed to practice law in the State of Illinois.

How to Apply:
Click on the link below:
https://www.vscyberhosting3.com/livingston/

OR:
Send your resume with cover letter to:
Marinna Metoyer
Livingston County Public Defender
110 N. Main Street
Pontiac, IL  61764
mmetoyer@livingstoncountyil.gov

Position Title:  Assistant Public Defender

Job Code: 2132

Hiring Salary: $82,500

Schedule: Full-Time

To Apply, go to  https://www.dupagecounty.gov/job_detail_T10_R378.php

Notice of Vacancy

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

Job Posting

Principal Public Defender

Job Posting

Assistant Public Defender

Job Posting

Public Defender

Assistant Public Defender I

Under supervision, perform a variety of professional, public defense legal work, applying professional legal principles and practices to a variety of legal assignments in an assigned operational area. Work is performed at the full performance level with considerable professional independence, discretion, judgement, and latitude in researching, preparing, and routinely defending indigent individuals in court on traffic or DUI charges.

https://il-mcleancounty.civicplushrms.com/careers/JobDetail.aspx?enc=QPQDKqwXNuJybHyCBjvzpwUGF/6R3zAHbzCQ5TyP2DNsmMWpV9uggPxi0AQjpclH

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

Job Posting

Assistant Public Defender

The Knox County Public Defender's Office located in Galesburg, Illinois, is accepting applications for a full-time Assistant Public Defender position.  Applicants must be licensed to practice law in the State of Illinois or eligible to practice under Illinois Supreme Court Rule 711. 

The Knox County Public Defender's Office consists of five full-time attorneys, four administrative support staff, a social worker and part-time investigator.  Our office places an emphasis on working together as a team and maintaining a healthy work life balance.  Duties will include the representation of clients in felony, misdemeanor, traffic, juvenile abuse and neglect, and juvenile delinquency cases.  This is a great opportunity to gain immediate felony and trial experience. 

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 $72,000.00 to $90,000.00.  Compensation package includes health, dental, and life insurance, paid holidays and vacation, and participation in the Illinois Municipal Retirement Pension.   

Galesburg is a vibrant small city that offers affordable housing and a low cost of living.  Located directly off Interstate 74, approximately 45 minutes from Peoria and the Quad Cities, Galesburg is served by eight Amtrak trains that run daily and is a 3-hour trip to Chicago on the train.  Galesburg is home to Knox and Carl Sandburg colleges, its own symphony orchestra, four local golf courses, three microbreweries, and hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year. 

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

David M. Hansen
Knox County Public Defender’s Office
200 S. Cherry Street
Galesburg, IL 61401
Fax:  309-341-1961
Email:  dhansen@knoxcountyil.gov