Assistant Corporation Counsel III - Special Federal Litigation Division

This position is in the Special Federal Litigation (SFL) Division of the City of Chicago’s Law Department. The Division defends alleged civil rights violations or state law liability claims based on allegations of police misconduct or abuse of authority in both federal and state courts. Responsibilities include defending sworn and civilian police personnel against allegations such as false arrest and excessive force, as well as defending the City of Chicago in cases involving Monell policy claims.

About the role

Assistant Corporation Counsels (ACCs) in this division handle sophisticated and complex litigation, including extensive motion practice, client counseling, intensive fact and expert discovery, and trial practice in lower exposure cases. Work is performed under the supervision of the Supervisors, Chief, and Deputy of SFL. The role involves joining a dedicated team of litigators committed to public service for the City of Chicago.

Responsibilities

• Draft pleadings and other court documents
• Draft and argue substantive motions
• Take or defend depositions
• Handle evidentiary hearings
• Assist in jury or bench trials
• Provide client counseling and advice
• Organize, prioritize, monitor, and control workflow deadlines

Requirements

• Admission to the Illinois Bar (or eligible for admission on motion pursuant to Illinois Supreme Court Rule 705)
• Good standing with your state Attorney Registration & Disciplinary Commission
• Graduation from an American Bar Association-accredited law school
• Litigation experience in one or more of the following areas:
  • Drafting pleadings and court documents
  • Drafting substantive motions
  • Arguing substantive motions
  • Taking or defending depositions
  • Handling evidentiary hearings
  • Assisting in jury or bench trials
  • Clerking for a state or federal court judge

Skills

• Superior writing, research, and editing skills
• Superior communication skills (written and verbal)
• Exceptional organizational skills
• Ability to work well with others and exhibit initiative
• Commitment to public service

Pay

$88,272.00 - $154,044.00 (salary is based on experience and credentials)

Benefits

The City of Chicago offers a generous benefits package. For details, visit the benefits website.

Working for the City of Chicago Department of Law may qualify you for loan forgiveness under the federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit www.StudentAid.gov/publicservice.

Residency Requirement: All employees must be actual residents of the City of Chicago as outlined in 2-152-050 of the City of Chicago Municipal Code.