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

Cook County • Chicago, IL

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

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.

Requirements

• Graduation from an accredited school of law with a Juris Doctorate degree.
• Licensed to practice law in Illinois or obtain law license by the time of hire.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship.

Nice To Haves

• 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-income 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.

Responsibilities

• Represent clients and matters accepted by or assigned to the Public Defender.
• Participate in and assume 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.
• Provide legal services to or on behalf of clients who have been charged with criminal offenses in the Circuit Court of Cook County.
• Advise clients as to court procedures, possible defense postures and possible consequences of those actions.
• Consult with clients before, during and after courtroom proceedings.
• Serve, as needed, in weekend and holiday bond court and juvenile detention court.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, and Vision
• Basic Term Life Insurance
• Pension Plan
• Deferred Compensation Program
• Employee Assistance Program
• Paid Holidays, Vacation, and Sick Time
• Voluntary Benefits
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF)
• Hybrid work environment which allows employees telecommuting and flexible scheduling options.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level