Assistant Public Defender JobID: 3634
Position Type: Champaign County/Assistant Public Defender (Public Defender)
Date Posted: 3/3/2026
Location: 101 E. Main Street (Courthouse)
Date Available: 04/05/2026
Closing Date: Until Filled
Additional Information: Show/Hide
Job Title: Assistant Public Defender (Full-Time, Exempt)
Department: Public Defenders 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 clients 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 epollock@champaigncountyil.gov
EEO / AA / ADA