Assistant Public Defender I - Arrest Response D...

Closing Date: 20th August, 2026

Description:

Job Summary:
Under general supervision, functions as an attorney performing entry-level legal work and related tasks in representing clients and matters accepted by or assigned to the Public Defender. Participates in and assumes responsibility for cases and matters of minor to moderate difficulty and complexity, particularly with respect to appeals, misdemeanors, delinquency petitions, abuse and neglect cases, habeas corpus, preliminary hearings and minor felonies. Provides legal services to or on behalf of clients who have been charged with criminal offenses in the Circuit Court of Cook County. Advises clients as to court procedures, possible defense postures and possible consequences of those actions. Consults with clients before, during and after courtroom proceedings. Serves, as needed, in weekend and holiday bond court and juvenile detention court.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Graduation from an accredited school of law with a Juris Doctorate degree is required.
• Must be licensed to practice law in Illinois or obtain law license by the time of hire is required.

Candidates who are contacted will be required to produce original required documents (e.g., current driver's license, diploma, school transcript, certifications, etc.) listed on the Notice of Job Opportunity within five (5) days of being extended an offer, in writing, by the Bureau Chief of BHR (or designee). Candidates will be notified of how to submit required documents.
Degrees awarded outside of the United States with the exception of those awarded in one of the United States territories and Canada, must be credentialed by the World Education Services (WES), Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE) or a National Association of Credential Evaluation (NACES) member organization.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Other Characteristics
Thorough and Accurate Knowledge of Basic Legal Principles, Concepts and Vernacular. Ability to Clearly, Logically and Effectively Express Verbal and Written Thoughts and Opinions. Ability to Effectively Communicate and Interact with Diverse Cultures and Low-In Come Persons in Consultations, Interviews and Investigations. Ability to Probe Into Sensitive Social Issues Involving Family, (i.E. Sexual Abuse, Child Abuse, Substance Abuse and Domestic Violence). Ability to Conduct Excellent Trial Advocacy Work, Interviews and Investigations. Ability to Consult with Social Workers, Probation Officers, Medical Experts, Legal Associates and Others to Assess the Options Available to The Defense and To Advise Clients of The Same.

The Duties Listed Are Not Set Forth for Purposes of Limiting the Assignment of Work. They Are Not to Be Construed as A Complete List of The Many Duties Normally to Be Performed Under a Job Title or Those to Be Performed Temporarily Outside an Employee's Normal Line of Work.

Group and Voluntary Benefits Offered:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision
• Basic Term Life Insurance
• Pension Plan
• Deferred Compensation Program
• Employee Assistance Program
• Paid Holidays, Vacation, and Sick Time
• Voluntary Benefits
• You May Qualify for The Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (pslf)
• For Further Information on Our Excellent Benefits Package, Please Click on The Following Link: Http://www.Cookcountyrisk.Com/

For Eligible Employees the County Has a Hybrid Work Environment Which Allows Employees Telecommuting and Flexible Scheduling Options.

Salary Range: $37.024/ Hourly
The County Has a Hybrid Work Environment Which Allows Employees Telecommuting and Flexible Scheduling Options.

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