Description:

General Description:
The Senior Staff Attorney provides advanced legal research, analysis, and writing support to the court. This position assists judges and court personnel by independently reviewing complex cases and legal issues, and by preparing legal memoranda, draft opinions, orders, and other documents. Work is performed with significant independence and professional judgment, consistent with extensive legal knowledge, skills, and experience.

Hours of Work:
Monday through Friday, 8am to 5pm.

Essential Functions:

Conducts legal research and analysis of statutes, case law, and other legal authorities.
Researches, analyzes, and prepares complex legal memoranda and opinions.
Prepares and reviews legal documents contained in case files across all case types filed with the Circuit Court.
Assists judges during hearings and court proceedings as needed.
Analyzes legislation and prepares summaries to apprise judges and executive staff of developments and changes in the law.
Assists in the supervision of summer interns.
Performs other duties as assigned.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of all required activities, duties, or responsibilities. Duties, responsibilities, programs, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned.

Knowledge Skills Abilities and Education Required

Thorough knowledge of the principles, methods, and practices of civil and criminal law.
Thorough knowledge of court procedures and rules of evidence.
Thorough knowledge of legal research principles, methods, materials, practices, and reference sources.
Thorough knowledge of court operations and court administration.
Ability to analyze, evaluate, and organize facts, identify key legal issues, and present information in a clear and logical manner.
Ability to use automated legal research tools and resources.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with judges, staff, and other court officials.
Ability to work independently and manage assigned workload.
Strong written and oral communication skills, including the ability to follow verbal and written instructions.

Education and/or Work Experience Requirements (Ed and/or Other Requirements)

Juris Doctor from an accredited law school
Admission to the Illinois Bar (or eligibility within a specified time)
Strong legal research and writing skills
Knowledge of court procedures and applicable laws
Experience in appellate or trial court practice
Familiarity with Illinois court systems.
Requires Illinois State Bar licensure as an attorney.
Must possess a valid driver's license.
Pass an extensive criminal history and employment history background check.

Physical Requirements:
Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working at a computer.

Supplemental Information:
Lake County offers a competitive salary and benefit package. Visit our Prospective Employee page to get additional information on why you should work for Lake County!

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background screening, drug and alcohol testing and may include a pre-employment medical exam. Only employees who have completed the probationary period are eligible for a transfer or promotion.

Lake County is committed to being a diverse and inclusive workplace and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.