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

Do you have a passion to make a difference in the lives of many and a desire for immediate courtroom experience? The Kane County Public Defender’s Office Misdemeanor Division has an immediate need for a licensed attorney to represent diverse clients charged with traffic, criminal and juvenile matters.

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
• Excellent organizational skills
• Attention to detail
• Strong work ethic
• Commitment to public service
• 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 CLEs
• Best co-workers in Kane County
• Salary $75,000

Prior experience as a 711 in a Public Defender’s office or attorney in criminal law preferred but not required. 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 is on your back, we’re the guys with the slingshots. Through zealous advocacy we strive to deliver excellence in our representation of each client recognizing the client's dignity and achieving the best possible outcome for the case. 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.

NOTICE OF VACANCY
(Posted: April 6, 2026)

JOB TITLE:    ASSISTANT PUBLIC DEFENDER

JOB SUMMARY:    Once appointed by the Judiciary of the 12th Judicial Circuit, all Assistant Public Defenders provide indigent clients with legal representation in criminal and quasi criminal matters. Assistant Public Defenders represent indigent clients in juvenile, misdemeanor, local traffic and felony matters. This is an on-site role.

DUTIES AND BACKGROUND:    Law Degree required. Ability to communicate effectively with Clients, Colleagues, Judges, Opposing Counsel and other Court Personnel. Ability to prioritize and multi-task several case files. License to Practice Law in Illinois required.

SALARY RANGE AND BENEFITS:    $75,000 (Starting range) -$117,500 (Top of the range). Collective Bargaining Agreement -Will County Circuit Court/Office of The Chief Judge 12th Judicial Circuit Court and IAM Union, Local 701.
https://willcounty.gov/open-and-participatory-government

Attractive benefits package offered by the County of Will, including medical, dental, vision, IMRF pension plan, life insurance and deferred compensation.
https://willcounty.gov/County-offices/Administration/Human-Resources/Employee-Benefits-and-Compensations

APPLY TO:    Michael J. Renzi, Public Defender
                    Will County Public Defender
                    58 E. Clinton Street, Suite 210
                    Joliet, Illinois 60432
                    mrenzi@willcounty.gov
                    Fax: 815-727-2916
                   
APPLICATION DEADLINE:    Open until filled

REQUIREMENTS OF APPLICATION:    Online county application and Current Resume

The County of Will is an equal opportunity employer and complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Individuals needing accommodation in the recruitment process should notify the Office Manager in advance at 815-727-8666.

Job Description:  Assistant Public Defender

ASSISTANT PUBLIC DEFENDER (FULL-TIME, FELONY DIVISION)

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. 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 range is up to $105,000, dependent on experience and qualifications. Benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance, deferred compensation plans, paid vacation, 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 Public Defender Stephanie Hammer at: PDOffice@sangamonil.gov

ASSISTANT PUBLIC DEFENDER (FULL-TIME, ENTRY-LEVEL)

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 July of 2026 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 offered is $65,478, dependent on experience and qualifications. Benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance, life insurance, deferred compensation plan, paid vacation, 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 Public Defender Stephanie Hammer at: PDOffice@sangamonil.gov

Principal Public Defender

Are you looking for a challenging role within an organization that provides rewarding compensation, an excellent benefit package and career growth opportunities? If so, Lake County Government is the place for you. Comprised of nearly 3,000 employees, it is our goal to positively serve the residents of Lake County while working with a purpose. We believe our employees should take pride in the work they accomplish while truly respecting a collaborative work environment.

 The Lake County Public Defender's Office represents indigent criminal defendants charged with crimes punishable by incarceration. The goal is to assure an excellent quality of legal representation that is not dependent on the wealth and status of the accused. Under the direction of the Public Defender, an Assistant Public Defender represents clients in court for arraignments, motions, trials, sentencing and all other related proceedings. 

Full Job Posting - Principal Public Defender

Assistant Public Defender

Are you looking for a challenging role within an organization that provides rewarding compensation, an excellent benefit package and career growth opportunities? If so, Lake County Government is the place for you. Comprised of nearly 3,000 employees, it is our goal to positively serve the residents of Lake County while working with a purpose. We believe our employees should take pride in the work they accomplish while truly respecting a collaborative work environment.

The Lake County Public Defender's Office represents indigent criminal defendants charged with crimes punishable by incarceration. The goal is to assure an excellent quality of legal representation that is not dependent on the wealth and status of the accused. Under the direction of the Public Defender, an Assistant Public Defender represents clients in court for arraignments, motions, trials, sentencing and all other related proceedings.

Full 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 $72,000 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

• Type: Full Time
• Salary/Pay Rate: $75,000-$125,000 annually, adjusted for relevant prior experience
• Posted Date: 12/16/25

JOB TITLE
Assistant Public Defender

DEPARTMENT
Public Defender

REPORTS TO
Chief Public Defender

CLASSIFICATION
Full Time, Exempt

DATE PREPARED
December 2025

SUMMARY
Provides legal representation to clients of the Public Defender’s office for felony and misdemeanor cases from appointment to final disposition. Opportunity for work in other legal areas, such as juvenile, traffic and or treatment courts is available based on performance and interest.   

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Essential duties and responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

• Maintaining communication with clients
• Addressing issues regarding pretrial release
• Filing and pursuing relevant pleadings
• Representing clients at substantive hearings and trials

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY
This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Integrity, research and writing 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 retain counsel are required. Must be able to communicate effectively, make critical decisions independently, and coordinate multiple tasks efficiently.

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
Law degree and licensed to practice law in the State of Illinois.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit and stand. The employee frequently is required to use hands to grasp, handle, or feel; and talk; or hear. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision and ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Normal office conditions. Potential problems may exist with clients exposed to stressful situations. The noise level in the work environment is moderate. 

EEO STATEMENT
Adams County is an equal opportunity employer and affords equal opportunity to all applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

OTHER DUTIES
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

To apply for this position, please send a resume and brief cover letter to John Citro at jcitro@adamscountyil.gov or drop off at the Public Defender’s Office at 521 Vermont St., Quincy, IL.

Job Posting

Assistant Public Defender

Notice of Vacancy

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