<p>The Public Defender's office has an immediate opening for an entry-level Assistant Public Defender in the Misdemeanor Division. This is a full-time position located in the McHenry County Government Center in Woodstock, IL. The successful candidate will work in a jury trial courtroom handling misdemeanor traffic offenses and general misdemeanor cases, with opportunities to gain experience in other areas of criminal defense practice. This is an excellent opportunity for an attorney looking to build a strong foundation in courtroom advocacy and criminal defense.</p> <p>Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, with occasional Saturdays and Holidays</p> <p>Hours per Week: 37.5 hours</p> <p>About Our Office:</p> <p>The McHenry County Public Defender's Office is a close-knit team of 14 dedicated attorneys committed to skilled representation for those who cannot afford counsel. It is a collaborative office where attorneys work closely together, share knowledge, and support one another in navigating complex cases. We take pride in our collegial culture, our commitment to justice, and the meaningful impact our work has on individuals and families throughout McHenry County.</p> <p>Essential Job Functions</p> <p>Primary - Misdemeanor/Traffic Court:</p> <ul> <li>Provide legal representation to indigent defendants charged with misdemeanor traffic offenses, including DUI, Reckless Driving, and Driver's License violations and general misdemeanor cases. </li><li>Prepare written motions, briefs, orders, and other legal documents. </li><li>Conduct adversarial hearings including bench and jury trials. </li><li>Negotiate and enter pleas by reviewing charges, police reports, criminal complaints, and records. </li><li>Prepare orders for court supervision, conditional discharge, or probation. </li><li>Instruct clients on how to access services and comply with court-ordered requirements. </li><li>Advise and counsel clients, explaining court processes and available options. </li></ul> <p>Secondary - Civil Proceedings:</p> <ul> <li>Represent persons in civil involuntary hospitalization and involuntary treatment cases, including reviewing medical records, meeting with clients in clinical settings, interacting with medical professionals, and conducting hearings. </li></ul> <p>Professional Development - Additional Courtroom Experience:</p> <p>Attorneys in this role will be primarily focused on cases in the Misdemeanor Division, with opportunities to gain courtroom experience in other areas of practice. This is a great way to broaden litigation skills within a supportive, collaborative office environment.</p> <p>General Duties:</p> <ul> <li>Conduct legal research and stay current on relevant statutes, case law, and procedural rules. </li><li>Prepare clients and witnesses for hearings and trial. </li><li>Appear in court on a daily basis, including occasional weekends and holidays. </li><li>Interact professionally with staff, elected officials, and the general public in person and by telephone. </li><li>Perform other related duties as assigned. </li></ul> <p>Minimum Qualifications</p> <p>Education:</p> <ul> <li>Juris Doctorate (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school. </li></ul> <p>Licensure:</p> <ul> <li>Must be a licensed attorney in the State of Illinois, OR a recent graduate awaiting bar results with an active 711 license. </li></ul> <p>Preferred (not required):</p> <ul> <li>Prior experience or coursework in criminal law or procedure. </li><li>Strong written and oral advocacy skills with a commitment to client-centered representation. </li><li>Ability to manage a high-volume caseload in a fast-paced courtroom environment. </li></ul> <p>Please submit a Cover Letter along with a Resume.</p> <p>Benefits:</p> <ul> <li>4 Blue Cross Blue Shield Medical plans, 2 dental plans, and 2 vision plans </li><li>Pension: Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF) </li><li>Nationwide Retirement Solutions (457 and Roth457) plans </li><li>Standard Life insurance policy with the option to buy up additional coverage for EE and dependents. </li><li>Tuition Reimbursement and Student Loan Repayment Programs </li><li>Paid vacation, sick, personal days and 13 paid holidays. </li></ul> <p>Must be able to successfully pass a background screening.</p> <p>McHenry County is an equal opportunity employer. No applicant for employment shall be discriminated against because of age, race, color, religion, sex, marital status, national origin, Veteran status or disability.</p>