Assistant Public Defender I-VI

Assistant Public Defender I-VI

Location: Bloomington, IL

Starting Salary Ranges: Commensurate with education, licensure, and experience

• Assistant Public Defender I: $73,615 - $81,065
• Assistant Public Defender II: $78,672 - $86,432
• Assistant Public Defender III: $84,084 - $92,387
• Assistant Public Defender IV: $89,874 - $98,758
• Assistant Public Defender V: $96,070 - $105,576
• Assistant Public Defender VI: $102,699 - $112,871

Are you passionate about criminal defense and committed to protecting the constitutional rights of all individuals- regardless of income? The McLean County Public Defender's Office is seeking attorneys at all career stages to join our team.

We are hiring across multiple levels (Assistant Public Defender I-VI) and welcome applications from new attorneys, experienced litigators, and seasoned criminal defense professionals. Placement and compensation will be based on qualifications, licensure, and relevant experience.

We also welcome applications from:

• Recent law school graduates awaiting bar results
• 711 licensed law students
• Third-year law students preparing for licensure

McLean County offers mentorship, meaningful courtroom experience, and opportunities for professional growth- from handling misdemeanor matters to managing serious felony cases, appeals, and complex litigation.

Please contact ... for more details about specific positions.

What You'll Do

• Depending on experience and assignment, responsibilities may include:
• Represent indigent clients in criminal, traffic, juvenile, and other court proceedings
• Handle cases ranging from misdemeanors and DUI matters to serious felony and complex criminal cases
• Conduct client interviews, case investigations, and witness preparation
• Draft motions, pleadings, briefs, and other legal documents
• Conduct legal research and develop defense strategies
• Negotiate with prosecutors and advocate for clients in court
• Try cases before judges and juries
• Manage a caseload with professionalism, diligence, and compassion
• Collaborate with attorneys, investigators, and support staff to provide effective representation

What We're Looking For

Qualifications vary by level, but successful candidates will generally have:

• A Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school
• Active Illinois law license, eligibility for Illinois licensure, or qualification under Illinois Supreme Court Rule 711
• Strong legal research, writing, and courtroom advocacy skills
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Sound judgment and the ability to manage sensitive and complex matters
• A strong commitment to indigent defense and equal access to justice

McLean County Benefits Package

McLean County offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Medical Member Rewards Program
• Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA/Dependent Care)
• Supplemental Insurance (Life, Critical Illness, and Accident)
• County-paid Life Insurance
• Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF Pension)
• Paid Time Off (Vacation, Personal, Sick, and Holidays)
• Employee Assistance Program
• Identity Protection
• Charitable Giving Opportunities

About the Public Defender's Office

The Public Defender's Office defends the rights of those who cannot afford legal representation in accordance with the U.S. and Illinois Constitutions. We are a mission-driven team rooted in justice, professionalism, and compassion.

McLean County Government takes pride in serving our dynamic and fast-growing community. We provide a wide range of services, including public safety, criminal justice, road and bridge maintenance, animal safety and adoptions, vital records management, personal health services, food safety inspections, and park management. Our dedicated team of over 800 employees work across 25 departments to ensure the well-being and growth of our community.

To learn more about McLean County Government and career opportunities, please visit .

Ready to Apply?

Click "Apply" at the bottom of the page.

Applying through a third-party site? Be sure to complete an application through our official job board: mcleancountyil.gov/jobs

Confidentiality of your application will be maintained upon request.

McLean County is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Exempt : No

Type : FT Employee

Department : Public Defender

Location : 5