Subpoena Counsel

State of Illinois•Chicago, IL

9d•$8,270 - $12,767•Onsite

About The Position

The Illinois Department of Corrections is seeking a motivated and collaborative attorney to join our growing legal team. The role focuses on handling Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests and subpoenas. Key responsibilities include reviewing these requests for legal validity, coordinating with stakeholders to gather required documents, and advising staff on FOIA-related issues. The attorney conducts legal research, makes timely objections when necessary, and ensures all documents are secure and properly redacted before production. They maintain organized records of requests, run reports, and alert leadership about process deficiencies. The ideal candidate will be an attorney seeking a fast-paced position. We invite all attorneys interested in meaningful legal work to apply!

Requirements

Requires possession of a license to practice law in the State of Illinois.
Requires prior experience equivalent to three (3) years of progressively responsible administrative experience in the practice of law.
Requires possession of a current, active license to practice law in the State of Illinois.
Requires ability to travel in the performance of duties, with overnight stays as appropriate.
Overtime is a condition of employment, and you may be required/mandated to work overtime including scheduled, unscheduled, or last-minute overtime.
Requires use of agency-supplied equipment (i.e., mobile phone, laptop, etc.).
Requires ability to attend seminars, conferences, and trainings to stay current on methods, tools, ideologies, or other industry related topics relevant to the job duties.
Requires ability to pass the IDOC/IDJJ background check.
Requires ability to pass a drug screen. The use of unauthorized drugs by an employee, regardless of position held, is prohibited.
Applicants are required to abide by all vaccine and/or other medical standards as set out by the employer.
Required to utilize digital technology, tools, platforms, and processes in managing and supporting various digital enhancements for greater efficiency, productivity, and digital transformation efforts within the department.

Nice To Haves

Prefers at least four (4) years of civil litigation experience handling federal, state, or administrative proceedings.
Prefers at least four (4) years of experience drafting legal memoranda, briefs, or pleadings.
Prefers at least two (2) years of professional experience working with laws, policies, or regulations for a corrections agency.
Prefers at least two (2) years of experience managing attorneys and support staff.
Prefers at least two (2) years of experience developing litigation strategy, settlement and appeal posture in designated significant civil actions.
Prefers at least four (4) years of experience conducting legal research.
Prefers at least two (2) years of experience working in a large agency or organization.
Prefers at least two (2) years of experience in handling constitutional or administrative law.
Prefers at least two (2) years of professional experience working with laws, policies, or regulations for a corrections agency.
Prefers at least two (2) years of experience utilizing Microsoft software such as Word, Excel, and Outlook, or similar software products.

Responsibilities

Serves as a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), Subpoena, and Privacy Counsel for assigned regions. Updates docketing systems, databases, and other electronic files consisting of subpoenas and their responses.
Consults with and advises Department administrative staff, attorneys, and other interested parties regarding their rights, responsibilities, and duties of the Department.
Conducts complex technical research for administrative officials of the Department.
Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated above.

Benefits

Flexible work schedule in some program areas (Flex time and Hybrid options)
Health, Life, Vision and Dental Insurance
12 weeks paid maternity/paternity leave
Pension Plan - Vesting at 10 years for Tier II
Full 20-year retirement awards free health insurance during retirement
Deferred compensation and other pre-tax benefits programs
Paid state holidays: 13 - 14 day annually
3 paid Personal Business days annually
12 paid Sick days annually (Sick days carry over year to year)
10 - 25 Paid Vacation days annually (10 days beginning at year 1 employment)
Personal, Sick and Vacation rates modified for 12-hour work schedules (As applicable)
Employee Assistance Program and/or Mental Health resources