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Assistant Public Defender Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Lake County, IL

Assistant Public Defender

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$85K/yr

Under the direction of the Public Defender, an Assistant Public Defender represents clients in court for arraignments, motions, trials, sentencing and all other related proceedings. Essential ...

Lake County

Assistant Public Defender

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$85K/yr

Under the direction of the Public Defender, an Assistant Public Defender represents clients in court for arraignments, motions, trials, sentencing and all other related proceedings. Essential ...

Lake County, IL

Principal Public Defender

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$101K/yr

Under the direction of the Public Defender, an Assistant Public Defender represents clients in court for arraignments, motions, trials, sentencing and all other related proceedings. Essential ...

Lake County

Principal Public Defender

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$101K/yr

Under the direction of the Public Defender, an Assistant Public Defender represents clients in court for arraignments, motions, trials, sentencing and all other related proceedings. Essential ...

Georgia

Attorney 2

Darien, IL

The Atlantic Circuit Public Defender's Office is seeking to hire an Assistant Public Defender 2 for McIntosh County. The primary duties include representing indigent clients with criminal cases in ...

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All JobsPublic Defender JobsAssistant Public Defender JobsAssistant Public Defender Jobs in Chicago, IL

Assistant Public Defender information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$48.4K

$81K

$136K

How much do assistant public defender jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant public defender in Chicago, IL is $80,956.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,900.00 and $88,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an assistant public defender do?

An Assistant Public Defender is a licensed attorney who represents individuals accused of crimes who cannot afford to hire a private lawyer. They provide legal counsel, defend clients in court, negotiate plea deals, and ensure their clients' constitutional rights are protected throughout the criminal justice process. Assistant Public Defenders often handle a high caseload and work on a wide variety of criminal cases, from minor offenses to serious felonies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant public defender?

To thrive as an Assistant Public Defender, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, a state bar license, and a strong understanding of criminal law and courtroom procedures. Familiarity with legal research databases (like Westlaw or LexisNexis), case management software, and e-filing systems is typically required. Exceptional communication, negotiation, and advocacy skills, along with resilience and empathy, help you connect with clients and navigate high-pressure situations. These skills ensure effective representation of clients, uphold legal rights, and maintain integrity within the justice system.

What are some common challenges faced by assistant public defenders, and how can new hires prepare for them?

Assistant Public Defenders often manage high caseloads and work with clients from diverse backgrounds who may have complex legal and personal needs. New hires should be prepared for fast-paced environments, tight deadlines, and emotionally charged situations. Developing strong organizational skills, practicing empathy, and seeking mentorship from senior defenders can help new attorneys navigate these challenges effectively. Additionally, collaborating closely with investigators, social workers, and other team members is key to building a strong defense and supporting clients holistically.

What is the difference between Assistant Public Defender vs Public Defender?

AspectAssistant Public DefenderPublic Defender
CredentialsJuris Doctor (JD), State Bar LicenseJuris Doctor (JD), State Bar License
Work EnvironmentSupports public defenders, handles cases under supervisionLeads defense teams, manages caseloads, makes legal decisions
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, public defense officesGovernment agencies, public defense offices
Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Assistant Public Defenders assist in defending clients in criminal cases under supervision, while Public Defenders lead the defense team, handle complex cases, and make strategic legal decisions. Both roles require a JD and state bar licensure, and they work within government public defense offices. The main difference lies in responsibility level and case management scope.

What are popular job titles related to Assistant Public Defender jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Assistant Public Defender jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Assistant Public Defender jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Assistant Public Defender jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Assistant Public Defender jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Assistant Public Defender job openings:

Assistant Public Defender jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Public Defender job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,020 per year, or $39 per hour.

Assistant Public Defender

Lake County, IL

Waukegan, IL • On-site

$85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Salary: $85,193.24 Annually
Location : Waukegan, IL
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 00533
Department: Public Defender
Opening Date: 03/05/2024
General Description
Are you looking for a challenging role within an organization that provides rewarding compensation, an excellent benefit package and career growth opportunities? If so, Lake County Government is the place for you. Comprised of nearly 3,000 employees, it is our goal to positively serve the residents of Lake County while working with a purpose. We believe our employees should take pride in the work they accomplish while truly respecting a collaborative work environment.
The Lake County Public Defender's Office represents indigent criminal defendants charged with crimes punishable by incarceration. The goal is to assure an excellent quality of legal representation that is not dependent on the wealth and status of the accused. Under the direction of the Public Defender, an Assistant Public Defender represents clients in court for arraignments, motions, trials, sentencing and all other related proceedings.
Essential Functions
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
  • Provide legal representation, consultation, and advice to indigent clients charge with criminal offenses.
  • Prepare a defense, perform legal research and analyze and apply legal principles, gather facts, and interview the client and witnesses.
  • Work closely with clients, provide and discuss information, strategies, and developments.
  • Write motions, pleadings, and present legal arguments.
  • Prepare legal documentation and represent clients throughout the legal process.
  • Litigate pretrial discovery and pretrial motions.
  • Negotiate plea bargains.
  • Conduct jury and bench trials.

Knowledge Skills Abilities and Education Required
  • Thorough knowledge of criminal law and procedure.
  • Strong research, analysis, decision-making and negotiation skills.
  • Ability to litigate criminal trials with aggressive motions practice and persuasive oral advocacy.
  • Effective interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Knowledge of criminal law, the judicial system, court practices, and procedures.
  • Ability to work under pressure with strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Must have strong computer literacy.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:
  • A Juris Doctor degree from an accredited university.
  • Licensed and in good standing to practice law in the State of Illinois

Supplemental Information
PHYSICAL DEMANDS OF THE POSITION:
Requires mainly office work, involving standing or walking some of the time, exerting up to 10 pounds of force on a regular basis, and high dexterity operating office equipment including a keyboard, phone, copier, etc. May be in front of a computer monitor for more than six (6) hours possible. The position requires normal visual acuity and field of vision and the ability to hear and speak to understand, respond to and build relationships with a diverse clientele.
Lake County offers a competitive salary and benefit package. We also offer flexible working hours, and a comprehensive wellness and training program. Visit our page to get additional information on why you should work for Lake County!
Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background screening, drug and alcohol testing and may include a pre-employment medical exam.
Lake County is committed to being a diverse and inclusive workplace and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.
The County offers an extensive benefits package to eligible employees including health, dental, vision, life insurance, pension, deferred compensation plans, and so much more! Below are resources for the County's current benefits.
You can find additional details on our benefits at and

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