Assistant State's Attorney - Entry Level

Cook County State's Attorney Office • Chicago, IL

6d • Onsite

About The Position

The Cook County State’s Attorney Office is seeking entry level Assistant State’s Attorneys to join the Criminal Prosecutions Bureau, Special Victims Bureau, and Juvenile Justice Bureau in the Criminal Misdemeanors (City or Suburban), Traffic, Domestic Violence Misdemeanors (City or Suburban), Juvenile Justice (Delinquency), and Felony Review units. Applicants must be licensed in Illinois or scheduled for admission to the Illinois bar on November 4, 2026, to be considered. This role involves prosecuting matters under the Criminal Code of the State of Illinois and managing caseloads in various courts within Cook County. The position requires close collaboration with law enforcement agencies and representation of the People of the State of Illinois in hearings and trials. Success in this role depends on the ability to work well with diverse communities, manage time effectively, and be self-initiating.

Requirements

• Must possess a law degree (J.D.) from an accredited law school
• Be a member in good standing with the Illinois bar or have received their 2026 bar results and scheduled for admission to the Illinois bar in November 2026
• Excellent legal research and legal writing abilities
• Demonstrate the ability to articulate sound legal arguments both orally and in writing, as well as articulate the rationale for decisions made
• A solid work ethic and show attention to detail and accountability
• Ability to work independently as well as be part of a team, including courtroom personnel
• Must be authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis

Responsibilities

• Prosecute matters under the Criminal Code of the State of Illinois
• Manage misdemeanor, traffic, and juvenile delinquency caseloads
• Review evidence for felony charges
• Handle preliminary hearings, grand jury indictments, and detention hearings
• Work closely with multiple law enforcement agencies
• Represent the People of the State of Illinois in hearings and trials
• Work well with people from diverse communities
• Work independently
• Have excellent time management skills
• Be self-initiating
• Effectively communicate the mission and values of the CCSAO to members of the community
• Litigate motions, petitions, bench and jury trials and all functions related to the aforementioned trials

Benefits

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

What This Job Offers

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