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Notice of Position Opening

OCCUPATIONAL TITLE:  ASSISTANT PUBLIC DEFENDER

Would you like to work in a collegial environment? Do you have a passion to help out the less fortunate? Do you want to work in a newly renovated building separate from the courthouse? Do you want to have access to transcription software, modern equipment and technology as well as an experienced staff that includes a mitigation expert and an investigator? If so, then we should talk as the Coles County Public Defender seeks an experienced attorney to fill a vacant position.

JOB DEFINITION: Assistant to the Coles County Public Defender concentrated in the defense of indigent individuals appointed by Circuit Court Judges and any Associate Judge in criminal and quasi-criminal proceedings. Includes representation of clients in juvenile, mental health commitment, misdemeanor, traffic, felony and criminal contempt proceedings and other related matters as assigned, using knowledge of criminal law, departmental, County of Coles and the Circuit Court of Coles County policies, rules, standards and practices, including the rules of conduct and procedure as found in the statutes of the State of Illinois and the rules of the Illinois Supreme Court.

NATURE OF WORK:

Supervisory Relationships: Reports to the Circuit and Associate Judges concerning case and trial assignment and management.

ILLUSTRATIVE EXAMPLES OF WORK:

The duties of an Assistant Public Defender include, but are not limited to, the following:

1. Interviews clients and witnesses to ascertain the facts of the case;
2. Conducts related investigations on behalf of clients;
3. Correlates findings and prepares case for trial;
4. Represents defendants in all aspects of the case to which they are assigned;
5. Conducts trial or hearing of a cause on behalf of the client, including advising the client of their opinion as to the law and the facts;
6. Conducts all facets of the criminal or quasi-criminal trial or hearings including examination or cross-examination of witnesses, presentation of arguments to the jury or court, and preparation of jury instructions;
7. Presents offers of negotiated settlement of a cause to the client including appropriate admonitions, advisement of rights, and presentation of opinions as to the merits of the case, both from a factual and legal point of view;
8. Reviews, analyzes and interprets reports, records, and directives;
9. Conducts themselves at all times according to appropriate professional, ethical and moral standards.

Requirements

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Education: Possession of a law degree from an American Bar Association (A.B.A.) accredited college or university required.
2. Licensed and in good standing with the Attorney Registration and Disciplinary Commission of the Illinois Supreme Court required.

REQUIREMENTS OF APPLICATION:  ONE PAGE LETTER OF APPLICATION AND ATTACHED RESUME

The Coles County Public Defender’s Office typically employs three assistant public defenders. This is a full-time position with no separate private practice being authorized. As a full-time assistant public defender, the attorney will receive all benefits accorded to Coles County Employees, including IMRF, 14-15 paid holidays per year and optional health insurance. The successful candidate will also be a part of a rotating detention court schedule. Salary will be commensurate with experience and qualifications, but is expected to at least $81,000.00 to $125,000.00.

Start of employment is negotiable however to effectuate a smoother transition we look to fill this position quickly. Interested applicants should send a cover letter and resume to Duane A. Deters, Chief Public Defender, Coles County Public Defender’s Office, 616 6th Street, Charleston, IL 61920 or by e-mail to ddeters@co.coles.il.us. Preference will be given to contact made before January 31, 2025 and to attorneys with felony jury trial experience.

Position Title:  Assistant Public Defender

Department:  Public Defender Office

Hiring Salary: $58,108 - $96,847

To Apply

Position Title:  Assistant Public Defender - Pre-License Attorney

Department:  Public Defender Office

Hiring Salary: $58,108 - $96,847

To Apply

Job Posting

Assistant Public Defender

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

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

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

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

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