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

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

Job Posting:

Chief Public Defender

   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 $80,000-$95,000 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

Notice of Vacancy

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

POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT 2403
ASSISTANT FEDERAL PUBLIC DEFENDER

The Federal Public Defender for the Northern and Southern Districts of Iowa seeks applications for the position of Assistant Federal Public Defender in its Davenport 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: An Assistant Federal Public Defender represents indigent criminal defendants in trial, appeal, and ancillary matters under the direction and guidance of the Federal Public Defender. The successful candidate will predominately be responsible for trial-level representation, but will occasionally handle appeal and ancillary matters as directed by the Federal Public Defender. Regular court appearances and travel for court and client meetings will be required. The successful applicant will have demonstrated a capacity or aptitude for excellence in criminal practice, a commitment to the representation of indigent accused persons, and a reputation for personal integrity. The Federal Public Defender follows a hybrid work model, allowing attorneys to incorporate telework when consistent with obligations to clients and the court. Federal Public Defender attorneys may not engage in the private practice of law.

REQUIREMENTS: The successful candidate must:

• Have a J.D. from an accredited law school;
• Be admitted to practice and in good standing before the highest court of any state or the District of Columbia;
• Be a U.S. citizen or otherwise eligible to work in the United States;
• Possess proficient research skills and effective written and oral communication abilities;
• Work well in a team environment;
• Be comfortable working closely with a diverse set of clients; and
• Have at least one year of experience as a practicing attorney or law clerk.

OTHER QUALIFICATIONS: Other preferred qualifications that will help a candidate in the hiring process (but are not required) include:

• Federal trial experience;
• Criminal trial experience of any sort;
• Appellate experience;
• Experience as a federal judicial clerk; and
• Spanish fluency.

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

SALARY AND BENEFITS: Salary is commensurate to Assistant U.S. Attorneys with similar qualifications and experience. Benefits include health and life insurance, retirement, the Thrift Savings Plan, 11 paid federal holidays, and generous annual and sick leave. This position is subject to mandatory Electronic Funds Transfer payment of net pay.

APPLICATION PROCESS: Electronically submit resume, writing sample, and cover letter in a single PDF to Denise_Fest@fd.org. The email subject line must read: Davenport position announcement 2403.

The position is open until filled. Only applicants considered for an interview will be contacted. No telephone calls, please.

The Federal Public Defender is an equal opportunity employer.

POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT 2404
ASSISTANT FEDERAL PUBLIC DEFENDER

The Federal Public Defender for the Northern and Southern Districts of Iowa seeks applications for the position of Assistant Federal Public Defender based in its Des Moines 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: An Assistant Federal Public Defender represents indigent criminal defendants in trial, appeal, and ancillary matters under the direction and guidance of the Federal Public Defender. The successful candidate will predominately be responsible for trial-level representation, but will occasionally handle appeal and ancillary matters as directed by the Federal Public Defender. Regular court appearances and regular travel for court and client meetings will be required; the successful applicant will be required to represent clients with cases pending in Cedar Rapids, Council Bluffs, Davenport, and Sioux City, as well as Des Moines. Extensive travel throughout the state of Iowa will be required for investigation and litigation. The successful applicant will have demonstrated a capacity or aptitude for excellence in criminal practice, a commitment to the representation of indigent accused persons, and a reputation for personal integrity. The Federal Public Defender currently follows a hybrid work model, allowing attorneys to incorporate telework when consistent with obligations to clients and the court. Federal Public Defender attorneys may not engage in the private practice of law.

REQUIREMENTS: The successful candidate must:

•Have a J.D. from an accredited law school;
•Be admitted to practice and in good standing before the highest court of any state or D.C.;
•Be a U.S. citizen or otherwise eligible to work in the United States;
•Possess proficient research skills and effective written and oral communication abilities;
•Work well in a team environment;
•Be comfortable working closely with a diverse set of clients; and
•Have at least one year of experience as a practicing attorney or law clerk.

OTHER QUALIFICATIONS: Other preferred qualifications that will help a candidate in the hiring process (but are not required) include:

•Federal trial experience;
•Criminal trial experience of any sort;
•Appellate experience;
•Experience as a federal judicial clerk; and
•Spanish fluency.

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

SALARY AND BENEFITS: Salary is commensurate to Assistant U.S. Attorneys with similar qualifications and experience. Benefits include health and life insurance, retirement, the Thrift Savings Plan, 11 paid federal holidays, and generous annual and sick leave. This position is subject to mandatory Electronic Funds Transfer payment of net pay.

APPLICATION PROCESS: Electronically submit resume, writing sample, and cover letter in a single PDF by August 23, 2024, to Denise_Fest@fd.org. The email subject line must read: Des Moines position announcement 2404. Preference will be given to applications received by August 23, 2024, however the position is open until filled. Only applicants considered for an interview will be contacted. No telephone calls, please.

The Federal Public Defender is an equal opportunity employer.

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.

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.

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

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

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