Assistant Public Defender

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 ....

EEO / AA / ADA