ASSISTANT PUBLIC DEFENDER I - ARREST RESPONSE DIVISION (OFFICE OF THE PUBLIC DEFENDER) ACTIVELY RECRUITED - AFSCME 3315

This position is an entry-level attorney role within the Cook County Public Defender’s Office, representing clients in criminal, juvenile, and related legal matters.

About the Role

Under general supervision, the attorney performs legal work and related tasks for cases and matters of minor to moderate difficulty and complexity. Responsibilities include handling appeals, misdemeanors, delinquency petitions, abuse and neglect cases, habeas corpus petitions, preliminary hearings, and minor felonies. The role involves providing legal services to clients charged with criminal offenses in the Circuit Court of Cook County, advising on court procedures, defense strategies, and potential consequences. The attorney consults with clients before, during, and after courtroom proceedings and may serve in weekend and holiday bond court or juvenile detention court.

Responsibilities

• Represent clients in criminal, juvenile, and related legal proceedings.
• Advise clients on court procedures, defense strategies, and potential outcomes.
• Consult with clients before, during, and after courtroom proceedings.
• Handle cases involving appeals, misdemeanors, delinquency petitions, abuse and neglect, habeas corpus, preliminary hearings, and minor felonies.
• Serve in weekend and holiday bond court and juvenile detention court as needed.
• Conduct trial advocacy, interviews, and investigations.
• Collaborate with social workers, probation officers, medical experts, and legal associates to assess defense options and advise clients.
• Address sensitive social issues, including sexual abuse, child abuse, substance abuse, and domestic violence.

Requirements

• Graduation from an accredited law school with a Juris Doctorate degree.
• Licensed to practice law in Illinois or must obtain licensure by the time of hire.
• Candidates must provide original required documents (e.g., driver’s license, diploma, school transcript, certifications) within five days of a written offer.
• Degrees awarded outside the United States (except those from U.S. territories or Canada) must be credentialed by WES, ECE, or a NACES member organization.

Skills and Abilities

• Thorough and accurate knowledge of basic legal principles, concepts, and terminology.
• Ability to clearly and logically express verbal and written thoughts and opinions.
• Effective communication and interaction with diverse cultures and low-income individuals.
• Ability to address sensitive social issues, including family-related matters such as abuse and violence.
• Strong trial advocacy, interviewing, and investigative skills.
• Ability to consult with professionals such as social workers, probation officers, and medical experts to assess defense options.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Basic term life insurance.
• Pension plan.
• Deferred compensation program.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Paid holidays, vacation, and sick time.
• Eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF).
• Voluntary benefits.

This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement, and benefits may be administered by the union. See the union bargaining agreement for details.

Pay

$37.02 per hour.

Schedule

The County offers a hybrid work environment with options for telecommuting and flexible scheduling.

This position requires successful completion of post-offer tests, including a background check, drug screen, and medical examination. Falsification of application information may result in disqualification or termination.