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Cook County State'S Attorney Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Chief Data Officer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$160 - $210/hr

The Cook County State's Attorney's Office (CCSAO) is a diverse and dedicated team of professionals ... S., the CCSAO prosecutes criminal and regulatory violations across six bureaus and four units with ...

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Cook County State S Attorney information

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$8

$16

$22

How much do cook county state's attorney jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for cook county state's attorney 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 is a Cook County State's Attorney?

A Cook County State's Attorney is an elected official who serves as the chief prosecutor for Cook County, Illinois. This office is responsible for prosecuting criminal cases on behalf of the state, representing the county in civil legal matters, and providing legal advice to county government agencies. The State's Attorney plays a key role in ensuring justice, public safety, and fair legal processes within the county. They oversee assistant state's attorneys and staff who handle a wide range of legal cases, from misdemeanors to serious felonies.

What is the difference between Cook County State's Attorney vs Cook County Public Defender?

AspectCook County State's AttorneyCook County Public Defender
Primary RoleProsecutes criminal cases on behalf of the governmentDefends individuals who cannot afford private attorneys
Work EnvironmentProsecutor's office, courtrooms, legal officesPublic defender's office, courtrooms, legal offices
Required CredentialsJurisdiction-specific law degree, license to practice lawJurisdiction-specific law degree, license to practice law
EmployerCook County governmentCook County government

The Cook County State's Attorney and Cook County Public Defender both work within the criminal justice system but serve different roles. The State's Attorney prosecutes criminal cases on behalf of the government, while the Public Defender provides legal defense for those unable to afford private attorneys. Both positions require a law degree and legal licensure, and they operate within the same government environment, but their responsibilities are distinct.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Cook County State's Attorney, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cook County State's Attorney, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, admission to the Illinois Bar, and a strong foundation in criminal and civil law. Familiarity with legal research databases, case management systems, and courtroom technology is essential. Exceptional communication, integrity, and decision-making skills help you stand out in this demanding legal role. These skills are crucial for ensuring effective prosecution, upholding justice, and maintaining public trust in the legal system.

What are some typical challenges faced by Assistant State's Attorneys in Cook County, and how can new hires successfully navigate them?

Assistant State's Attorneys in Cook County often face high caseloads and fast-paced court schedules, which can be challenging when balancing thorough case preparation with tight deadlines. New hires may also encounter complex legal issues and emotionally charged cases, requiring strong resilience and attention to detail. Successful adaptation involves proactive time management, seeking mentorship from experienced colleagues, and maintaining open communication with investigators, victims, and other stakeholders. Building strong organizational skills and a supportive professional network within the office can help new attorneys excel and manage these challenges effectively.
What cities are hiring for Cook County State'S Attorney jobs? Cities with the most Cook County State'S Attorney job openings:
What states have the most Cook County State'S Attorney jobs? States with the most job openings for Cook County State'S Attorney jobs include:
Infographic showing various Cook County State'S Attorney job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 86% In-person, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,340 per year, or $16 per hour.

Assistant States Attorney - Experienced

Champaign County

Urbana, IL • On-site

$39.85 - $53.02/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Champaign County (Illinois) rating

9.5

Company rating: 9.5 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 844 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Position Type:
Champaign County/Assistant State`s Attorney (State`s Attorney)
Date Posted:
7/8/2026
Location:
101 E. Main Street (Courthouse)
Date Available:
ASAP
Closing Date:
Until Filled
Job Title: Assistant State's Attorney
Department: State's Attorney's Office
Summary
The Champaign County State's Attorney's Office is seeking an experienced attorney licensed in the State of Illinois for an Assistant State's Attorney position. A successful applicant must be skilled in trial advocacy, communication, organization, and technology, demonstrate good judgement and the ability to make decisions, and be willing represent the office in court and with the public. This includes, but is not limited to, exercising primary responsibility for the preparation of jury and bench trials, motion practice and plea negotiations in all types of criminal cases of normal to advanced complexity, and working cooperatively with victim advocates and with law enforcement in criminal prosecutions including preparing search warrants. Other duties may be assigned by the State's Attorney.
Qualifications
  • Hold a current license to practice law in the State of Illinois.
  • Minimum of 3 years post-law school practice.
  • Have professional experience and demonstrated professional interest in:
  • Prosecution
  • Litigation
  • Criminal Law
  • Social Services
  • Other related fields

Compensation
  • Wage Range: $39.85 - $53.02 per hour depending on experience and qualifications.
  • Champaign County is proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package, including paid time off, health insurance, life insurance, and employer contributions to a defined-benefit retirement plan. Benefit details can be found on the Champaign County Jobs page.????

How To Apply
  • Submit an application online by visiting the Champaign County Open Positions page.
  • Submit resumes and references to Julia Reitz, Champaign County State's Attorney, 101 E Main Street, Urbana, Illinois, 61801
  • Submit resumes and references by email to Jessica Pickett at jpickett@champaigncountyil.gov

What Champaign County (Illinois) employees say

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