Assistant Public Defender III - Juvenile Division

Assistant Public Defender III - Juvenile Division

Starting Salary Range: $82,719.27 - $91,022.10 per year (Commensurate with education and experience)

Basic Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:00 am-4:30 pm (Full time)

Location: Bloomington, IL

We believe every child and family deserves strong, compassionate legal representation. As an Assistant Public Defender III in our Juvenile Division, you'll have the opportunity to make a profound impact by representing clients in Abuse and Neglect cases, while working in a supportive, fast-paced, and collaborative legal environment.

If you are passionate about child welfare, family advocacy, and criminal justice - and want to continue growing your litigation and leadership skills - this could be the opportunity you've been looking for.

What You'll Do:

• Represent clients in Juvenile Abuse and Neglect cases, ensuring the procedural and substantive rights of families are protected.
• Manage your own caseload with significant autonomy and discretion.
• Prepare and argue motions, conduct legal research, develop case strategies, interview clients and witnesses, and litigate cases in court.
• Work collaboratively with prosecutors, DCFS caseworkers, and court officials to achieve the best outcomes for your clients.
• Occasionally assist with Juvenile Delinquency, Felony, or Misdemeanor cases as needed.
• Oversee and mentor office support staff, paralegals, and other legal professionals assisting on case preparation.
• Maintain compliance with federal and state guidelines, and ensure high standards of professionalism and client service.

What We're Looking For:

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
• Licensed to practice law in Illinois.
• Considerable experience litigating criminal or juvenile cases.
• Supervisory experience or demonstrated leadership in managing attorneys or legal staff is a plus.
• Strong litigation, negotiation, and legal research skills.
• Commitment to advocating for vulnerable and indigent clients.
• Ability to thrive in a dynamic, team-oriented environment.

Skills That Will Help You Succeed:

• Expertise in courtroom procedures, trial advocacy, and the rules of evidence.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to analyze complex legal and factual issues and develop effective legal strategies.
• Compassionate approach to working with clients facing family, social, and emotional challenges.
• Ability to mentor and support colleagues in a collaborative legal office.

Why Join McLean County?

Meaningful Work: Be a voice for children and families at a critical point in their lives.

Career Growth: Take on challenging cases and develop your courtroom and leadership skills.

Supportive Environment: Work in a team with a shared mission of justice and service.

McLean County offers a comprehensive benefits package:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Health Savings and Flex Spending Accounts
• County-provided Life Insurance
• Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF Pension)
• Generous Paid Time Off (vacation, personal, sick days, and holidays)
• Supplemental Insurance (Life, Critical Illness, Accident)
• Employee Assistance Program
• Identity Protection Services
• Charitable Giving Programs
• Full Salary Range: $82,719.27 - $128,214.82/year

About the Public Defender's Office

Led by Public Defender Ronald Lewis, our 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 Make a Difference?

Click "Apply Now" and upload your resume and a letter of interest.

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