Assistant State's Attorney - Law Enforcement Review Unit (LERU)

Cook County State's Attorney Office • Chicago, IL

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The Law Enforcement Accountability Division (LERU) is seeking an Assistant State’s Attorney. The Assistant State’s Attorneys in LERU are responsible for reviewing allegations of on-duty misconduct by law enforcement officers throughout Cook County to determine whether criminal prosecution is appropriate. LERU reviews all officer-involved shootings and deaths that occur in police custody, as well as allegations of excessive force, official misconduct, perjury, bribery, theft, obstructing justice, aggravated/reckless discharge of a firearm, and sex offenses. LERU vertically prosecutes all cases resulting in criminal charges and presents evidence and witness testimony before the grand jury. This is a full-time bargaining unit exempt position.

Requirements

• Must possess a law degree from an accredited institution and be licensed in Illinois with a minimum of three years of experience. If not licensed in IL, confirm what steps are being taken to become licensed in IL.
• Strong research, writing, and oral advocacy skills.
• Willingness to become familiar with Title III, Confidential Overhears, and requirements for obtaining search warrants, particularly for cellular phone data and social media.
• Strong organizational skills with great attention to detail.
• Excellent communication skills, interpersonal skills, and ability to promote team building and be a self-starter.
• Sound judgment, critical thinking, analytical, and effective time management skills.
• Must uphold the mission, vision, and values of the Office at all times.
• Commitment to applying a vertical prosecution model including long-term investigations and complex trials with multiple crimes and defendants.
• Willingness to be vetted for assignment as a Special United States Attorney and willingness to partner closely with local and Federal law enforcement and Federal prosecutors.

Nice To Haves

• Prior criminal law trial experience is a plus but not required.
• Litigation experience.
• Legal writing experience.
• Felony Review line ASA experience.

Responsibilities

• Reviewing allegations of on-duty misconduct by law enforcement officers throughout Cook County to determine whether criminal prosecution is appropriate.
• Reviewing all officer-involved shootings and deaths that occur in police custody, as well as allegations of excessive force, official misconduct, perjury, bribery, theft, obstructing justice, aggravated/reckless discharge of a firearm, and sex offenses.
• Vertically prosecuting all cases resulting in criminal charges.
• Presenting evidence and witness testimony before the grand jury.
• Drafting internal memoranda summarizing investigations and supporting charging and declination recommendations.
• Being on call for one week every eight weeks to respond to calls concerning officer involved shootings which may require responding to police stations to interview witnesses and assist with other aspects of the investigation.
• Remaining in the position for a minimum of two years.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision plans
• Robust Paid Time Off (PTO) program, including vacation, personal, and sick leave
• 13 paid holidays
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program eligibility
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offering confidential counseling and referral services
• Pension plan through Cook County

What This Job Offers

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