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Cook County Public Defender Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Champaign County

Assistant Public Defender

Urbana, IL · On-site

$54K - $94K/yr

Assistant Public Defender (Full-Time, Exempt) Department: Public Defender's Office Reports To ... The County offers a competitive benefits package, which is outlined at https:/www.co.champaign.il ...

Washoe County

DEPUTY ALTERNATE PUBLIC DEFENDER

Reno, NV

$112K - $146K/yr

Position Information THE WASHOE COUNTY ALTERNATE PUBLIC DEFENDER'S OFFICE is accepting applications for the position of Deputy Alternate Public Defender in the Criminal Division. The Alternate Public ...

Allegany County

1st Assistant Public Defender

Belmont, NY · On-site

$71K - $102K/yr

1st ASSISTANT PUBLIC DEFENDER Allegany County is seeking qualified candidates for the position of 1st Assistant Public Defender. The candidates must be a permanent resident of Allegany County at the ...

Washoe County, NV

DEPUTY PUBLIC DEFENDER

Reno, NV · On-site

$112K - $241K/yr

Washoe County provides employer-paid contributions to PERS, health insurance, and a wide range of other competitive benefits. Our office is located in Reno, NV at the base of the Sierra Nevada ...

Brown County, WI

Public Defender- Deputy

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$80K - $101K/yr

The Brown County Public Defender's Office is looking for a Deputy Public Defender to help create its brand-new office. We are considering newly admitted attorneys, attorneys with 20 or more years of ...

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How much do cook county public defender jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for cook county public defender in the United States is $16.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by attorneys working in the Cook County Public Defender's Office?

Attorneys in the Cook County Public Defender's Office often manage high caseloads and must work efficiently under time constraints. They regularly represent clients from diverse backgrounds, many of whom face significant socioeconomic challenges, requiring both legal acumen and strong interpersonal skills. Navigating limited resources, collaborating with investigators and social workers, and staying current with changes in laws and procedures are also key aspects of the role. Despite these challenges, public defenders gain valuable courtroom experience and develop strong advocacy skills early in their careers.

What does a Cook County Public Defender do?

A Cook County Public Defender is a licensed attorney who provides legal representation to individuals who cannot afford to hire a private lawyer and are facing criminal charges in Cook County, Illinois. Their primary role is to defend clients' rights throughout the criminal justice process, including arraignments, trials, and appeals. Public defenders work to ensure that their clients receive fair treatment under the law, conduct legal research, negotiate plea bargains, and advocate on behalf of their clients in court. They play a vital role in maintaining the integrity of the legal system by ensuring access to justice for all, regardless of financial means.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Cook County Public Defender, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cook County Public Defender, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, a valid Illinois law license, and a solid understanding of criminal law and trial procedures. Familiarity with legal research databases, case management systems, and court filing protocols is essential. Outstanding communication, negotiation, and empathy are crucial soft skills for building client trust and advocating effectively in court. These skills ensure clients receive strong, ethical representation and help uphold justice in complex legal environments.

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

AspectCook County Public DefenderCook County Assistant Public Defender
CredentialsJuris Doctor (JD), licensed to practice law in IllinoisJuris Doctor (JD), licensed to practice law in Illinois
Work EnvironmentHandles criminal defense cases, manages a caseload, and represents clients in courtSupports Public Defenders, assists in case preparation, and may represent clients under supervision
Employer & IndustryCook County Public Defender's Office, criminal justice

The main difference between a Cook County Public Defender and a Cook County Assistant Public Defender is experience level and responsibilities. Public Defenders typically lead cases and make legal decisions, while Assistant Public Defenders support these efforts and handle cases under supervision. Both roles require similar credentials and work within the same criminal justice environment.

What cities are hiring for Cook County Public Defender jobs? Cities with the most Cook County Public Defender job openings:
What states have the most Cook County Public Defender jobs? States with the most job openings for Cook County Public Defender jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Cook County Public Defender jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Cook County Public Defender jobs are:
Cook County Public Defender jobs near you

Assistant Public Defender

Champaign County

Urbana, IL • On-site

$54K - $94K/yr

Other

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Assistant Public Defender (Full-Time, Exempt) 

Department: Public Defender's Office  

Reports To: Public Defender

Start Date: April 5, 2026

SUMMARY

Provides legal counsel and court representation to defendants who cannot afford legal counsel and who have been charged with jailable offenses and certain civil defendants.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Includes but not limited to as other duties may be assigned.

  • Provides competent representation to indigent defendants.
  • Meets with clients.
  • Conducts plea negotiations and jury trials.
  • Performs as trial counsel by representing defendants during courtroom proceedings.
  • Analyzes strength of case, understanding of the possible sentences; and at the client's wishes, meets with prosecutor to resolve the matter prior to trial. 

QUALIFICATIONS 

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.  The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

Education and/or Experience

  • Law degree.
  • Minimum of 3 years of post-law school practice.
  • Able to perform legal research and have exposure to the preparation and trial of cases.

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations

  • Must be currently licensed to practice in the State of Illinois.

Language Skills

  • Ability to read, analyze, and interpret legal documents and interpretations.
  • Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals.
  • Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from judges, attorneys and the general public.

COMPENSATION

  • Salary Range: $54,990 $94,633 depending on qualifications.
  • The County offers a competitive benefits package, which is outlined at https:/www.co.champaign.il.us/jobs, including membership in the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF), optional 457 deferred compensation plans, and a comprehensive health insurance plan.
  • The office provides on-site and ongoing training, encouraging a work-life balance.

 

HOW TO APPLY

  • Apply on the Champaign County website.
  • Submit a cover letter and resume to Elisabeth Pollock, Champaign County Public Defender, 101 E. Main, Urbana, IL  61801, or via email to epollock@champaigncountyil.gov.

EEO / AA / ADA 


 



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