Assistant Public Defender

The Boone County Public Defender’s Office in Belvidere, Illinois is hiring for an Assistant Public Defender. This position is open to all experience levels, including newly-licensed attorneys. The anticipated caseload could include a mix of Criminal Misdemeanors, Misdemeanor DUI’s, Misdemeanor Traffics, and Juvenile Delinquency cases.

The successful applicant will be licensed to practice law in the State of Illinois or awaiting results from the July 2025 Bar Exam. Candidates should demonstrate an interest in the representation of indigent clients. Training will be provided by the office, but coursework related to criminal law and/or prior experience in a criminal law office, public defender’s office, or state’s attorney’s office is a plus.

The anticipated starting salary is $72,500-$78,000 per year, commensurate with experience, with benefits that include health, vision, and dental insurance; paid vacation; and participation in the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis and interviewed until the position is filled.

We are an equal opportunity employer.

Please e-mail or mail a resume to:

Kathryn Cross
Boone County Public Defender’s Office
130 S. State St., Ste. 311
Belvidere, IL 61008
kcross@17thcircuit.illinoiscourts.gov

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $72,500.00 - $78,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Ability to Commute:

• Belvidere, IL 61008 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Belvidere, IL 61008: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person