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Assistant State Attorney Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

IL

$75K - $78K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Description About the Job The Saint Clair County State's Attorney's Office is looking for qualified applicants to serve as Assistant State's Attorneys. St. Clair County is located in the St. Louis ...

Senior Assistant State's Attorney

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$91K - $110K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

A Senior Assistant State's Attorney works with supervision and in collaboration with more senior attorneys. Our attorneys work hard, but also put significant emphasis on work-life balance. A writing ...

A Senior Assistant State's Attorney works with supervision and in collaboration with more senior attorneys. Our attorneys work hard, but also put significant emphasis on work-life balance. A writing ...

Principal Assistant State's Attorney

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$105K - $128K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

A Principal Assistant State's Attorney typically handles their caseload independently, but with ample support and collaboration opportunities with colleagues. Our attorneys work hard, but also put ...

Opportunities for 711-licensed students to handle their own cases under the supervision of an Assistant State's Attorney. Gain hands-on courtroom experience Interesting and challenging research and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Assistant State Attorney information

See Illinois salary details

$51.4K

$83.8K

$134.2K

How much do assistant state attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant state attorney in Illinois is $83,767.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,900.00 and $92,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an assistant state attorney?

Assistant State Attorneys are licensed lawyers who work for the government, typically under the direction of a State Attorney, to prosecute criminal cases on behalf of the state. They are responsible for reviewing evidence, filing charges, presenting cases in court, and working with law enforcement to ensure justice is served. Their duties may also include negotiating plea deals and advising police on legal matters. Assistant State Attorneys play a crucial role in upholding the law and protecting public safety within their jurisdiction.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an assistant state attorney?

To excel as an Assistant State Attorney, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, admission to the state bar, and a solid understanding of criminal law and courtroom procedures. Familiarity with case management software, legal research databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis, and electronic filing systems is typically required. Exceptional written and verbal communication, critical thinking, and negotiation skills help you effectively advocate in court and collaborate with law enforcement. These competencies ensure fair and efficient prosecution, uphold justice, and maintain public trust in the legal system.

What challenges do assistant state attorneys face when managing a heavy caseload?

Assistant State Attorneys often handle a large number of cases simultaneously, which requires exceptional time management and organizational skills. Balancing court appearances, legal research, witness preparation, and negotiations can create pressure, especially when deadlines overlap. Working closely with law enforcement, victims, and defense counsel also demands clear communication and adaptability. Successful attorneys rely on teamwork, available resources, and strategic prioritization to ensure each case receives the necessary attention.

What is the difference between Assistant State Attorney vs Prosecutor?

AspectAssistant State AttorneyProsecutor
CredentialsJurisdiction-specific law degree, bar admissionJurisdiction-specific law degree, bar admission
Work EnvironmentGovernment offices, courtroomsGovernment agencies, courts
Employer & IndustryState or local government, legal systemGovernment agencies, legal system
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Both Assistant State Attorneys and Prosecutors are legal professionals working within the criminal justice system, often in government settings. An Assistant State Attorney typically refers to a lawyer working under a State Attorney, handling criminal cases, and representing the government in court. A Prosecutor is a broader term that can include Assistant State Attorneys and other legal officials responsible for prosecuting criminal cases. The roles overlap significantly, with the main difference being that 'Prosecutor' is a general term, while 'Assistant State Attorney' specifies a particular position within the state's legal system.

How to become an assistant state attorney?

To become an assistant state attorney, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree followed by a Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school. They must pass the state bar examination and gain relevant legal experience, such as internships or clerkships, before applying for the position. Strong analytical, communication, and courtroom skills are also important for success in this role.

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Assistant State Attorney jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Assistant State Attorney job openings:

Infographic showing various Assistant State Attorney job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,767 per year, or $40.3 per hour.

$75K - $78K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Description About the Job The Saint Clair County State's Attorney's Office is looking for qualified applicants to serve as Assistant State's Attorneys. St. Clair County is located in the St.

Louis metropolitan area, and it is home to numerous municipalities and Scott Air Force Base. The State's Attorney's Office is responsible for representing the People of St. Clair County in all matters pertaining to the County both criminally and civilly.

The Office seeks justice for the People of St. Clair County and in doing so seeks to uphold the highest ethical standards while vigorously prosecuting the guilty, protecting the innocent, advocating for victims, safeguarding the rights of all citizens, and working with law enforcement and community leaders to strengthen the communities we serve. Responsibilities The Office employs approximately 30 attorneys across various divisions.

Primary duties and responsibilities depend on assignment within the office, but will generally include: preparing cases for court and handling cases during daily courtroom dockets; preparing pleadings; legal research; litigating motions; conducting various hearings; trying cases in jury and bench trials; communicating with law enforcement, various state and social service agencies, and members of the public; and performing other duties as assigned by the State's Attorney. Qualifications Candidates must be licensed to practice law in the State of Illinois or eligible for licensure under reciprocity or through the transferring of MBE scores. 3Ls or law school graduates may be considered depending upon circumstances and if they possess a valid license under Supreme Court Rule 711 and will be sitting for the next bar exam.

The Office is looking for individuals who are driven, successful, and goal-oriented who are seeking to further their career and abilities as a litigator. Strong verbal and written communication skills are required. Applicants should also be "team-players" who want to contribute to the public good and understand that Illinois Rule of Professional Conduct 3.8 requires prosecutors "to seek justice, not merely convict." Any individual hired to fill this position would have to pass a background check and drug test prior to beginning employment; this position will not have a St

Clair County residency requirement. Hiring Criteria Candidates are judged individually, and the following criteria may be given consideration for interviewing and hiring: 1) For recently licensed attorneys, law school academic standing and accomplishments as well as course selections focusing on criminal law and procedure, evidence, and practical skill and clinical courses. 2) Prior work experience and internships, both legal and non-legal, with a specific emphasis on courtroom and litigation experience.

3) Documented interest in and history of public service and/or volunteerism. 4) Recommendations and references regarding personal and professional integrity and capability. Compensation and Benefits Salary range is $75,000 -$78,000 per year.

All full-time positions include a robust benefits package including health, dental, vision, and life insurance as well as a pension plan through the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund. Employees are also eligible for other benefits including a health-savings account. Employees receive two weeks of paid vacation per year in addition to separate paid sick time.

Leave amounts also increase with years of service. If you are interested in being considered for employment by the Office, please utilize St. Clair County's online application system to forward a resume, cover letter, and list of references to the attention of James Gomric, State's Attorney at #10 Public Square, Belleville, Illinois 62220.

We ask that newly-licensed attorneys or recent graduates with a student practice license please include a transcript and writing sample. Http://www.co.st-clair.il.us Select "Careers" in the top right corner For any pre-application questions, feel free to contact Assistant State's Attorney Bernadette Schrempp at Bernadette.schrempp@co.st-clair.il.us or First Assistant State's Attorney Daniel Lewis at Daniel.Lewis@co.st-clair.il.us. St

Clair County has an established Equal Employment and non-discrimination policy that requires employment decisions be made without regard to race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, medical condition, pregnancy, or physical or mental disabilities unrelated to the ability to perform essential job functions. Interviews will begin immediately, and position may be filled prior to posting end date. Typical Qualifications License to practice law in the State of Illinois Background check required.