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Job Posting

Principal Public Defender

Job Posting

Assistant Public Defender

Job Posting:

Public Defender

The Macon County Public Defender’s Office is seeking a candidate to fill a FULL-TIME position as an assistant public defender.  Job responsibilities will vary depending on level of experience.  Assistant public defenders are expected to (1) competently represent indigent defendants/respondents in criminal, juvenile delinquency, traffic, and/or juvenile abuse/neglect matters; (2) maintain communication with clients, including regular in-person visits, phone conferences, letters, and/or visits to correctional facilities; (3) independently research applicable law and file motions and pleadings; and (4) negotiate plea agreements with the State’s Attorney’s Office.  The Office provides on-site and ongoing training, encourages work-life balance, and fosters relationships with other members of the legal community.

Candidates must possess a Juris Doctor degree and have a current (or prospective) license to practice law in the State of Illinois with no history of suspensions.  Salary and compensation package commensurate with experience, beginning at $70,000.  Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and resume via email to Michelle Sanders, Macon County Public Defender’s Office at: msanders@court.co.macon.il.us.

Macon County is an equal opportunity employer.  Recent law graduates are encouraged to apply.

Application deadline: October 1, 2024 or until filled.

Job Posting:

Public Defender

Pretrial Fairness Act Attorney

Do you want to be a part of history in the first cashless bail state? Do you have a passion to be the change and a desire for immediate courtroom experience? Do you want to have new clients every day? Join the Kane County Public Defender’s Office representing diverse clients charged with all levels of criminal offenses in our PFA courtroom.

Qualifications:

·           JD from an accredited law school
·           Licensed to practice law in Illinois
·           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 (15!)
·           In house CLE
·           Salary starting at $75,000 and based on experience

We are looking for someone who is ready to lead the charge in our initial appearance court. Someone who is ready to attack the complaints and argue fiercely for immediate release under the Pre-Trial Fairness Act. You will argue conditions hearings and detention hearings Monday through Friday with hours 7:30 AM-3:30PM. While you will not have a continuing caseload, you will be the first face each client sees from the KCPDO and set the example for excellent representation.

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. Please put PFA Attorney in the subject line. Bhawkins@kanepublicdefender.org. We won’t ghost you. 

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.

Now Hiring Full-Time Assistant Public Defender

Job Title:  Assistant Public Defender

Reports To:  Public Defender

SUMMARY:

The Kendall County Public Defender’s Office in Yorkville, Illinois, is seeking a licensed attorney for the position of Full-Time Assistant Public Defender.  Applicant must be licensed to practice law in the State of Illinois and be in good standing.  Primary responsibilities include the representation of indigent clients in felony, misdemeanor, traffic, juvenile abuse, neglect, dependency or delinquency cases and any other duties as assigned. 

Applicants should have strong research, writing and negotiation skills.  Candidates should possess integrity and a desire to represent those unable to afford counsel.  Candidates must be able to manage a caseload effectively and communicate with clients, opposing counsel and judges.

Starting Salary is $65,000, dependent on experience and qualifications.  Benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance, paid vacation and participation in Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF). 

To be considered, please send cover letter, resume and references to:

Jason D. Majer
Kendall County Public Defender
Kendall County Courthouse
807 W. John Street
Yorkville, Illinois 60560
630-553-4215
630-553-4963-Fax
Email:  jmajer@kendallcountyil.gov

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

   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.   

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.

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

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