Criminal Assistant State's Attorney

Company Description

McHenry County Government, established in 1836, provides a wide range of high-quality services to the residents of McHenry County, Illinois. With a commitment to excellence, the county upholds the values of transparency, efficiency, and community support. McHenry County is dedicated to serving its citizens and fostering the well-being and growth of the region. For more information on McHenry County's policies and updates, visit their Social Media Policy webpage.

Role Description

The McHenry County State's Attorney's Office is seeking a motivated attorney to fill an open entry-level Assistant State's Attorney within the Criminal Division. This position offers the opportunity to represent the People of the State of Illinois in criminal prosecutions and related legal proceedings, while gaining significant courtroom and litigation experience. The ideal candidate is committed to public service, possesses strong advocacy skills, strong research skills, and demonstrates sound legal judgment.

Key Responsibilities

• Represent the People of the State of Illinois in criminal proceeding in the Circuit Court of McHenry County.
• Understanding of Illinois Criminal Code and Criminal Procedure.
• Conduct court appearances including daily status calls, arraignments, hearings, motion hearings, bench trials, and jury trials.
• Prepare and argue motions and other pleadings before the court.
• Draft well-reasoned, well-researched motions, responses, and legal briefs. 
• Review collaboratively with law enforcement agencies and office staff.
• Maintain organized case files and manage a high-volume caseload.
• Exercise sound discretion and ethical judgment in prosecutorial decision-making.

Qualifications Required

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school
• Licensed and in good standing to practice law in the State of Illinois (Recent Bar-Takers with a rule 7/11 Student Law are also invited to apply)
• Strong oral advocacy and courtroom presentation skills
• Excellent legal research and writing abilities.
• Demonstrated trial advocacy skills or relevant litigation experience. 
• Ability to manage multiple cases and deadlines effectively. 
• A strong interest in public service and the pursuit of justice

Preferred Attributes

• Prior internship, externship, or clinical experience in prosecution, criminal defense, or litigation.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze legal issues and present persuasive arguments. 

Benefits

• Salary: $75,000 to $85,000 commensurate with experience.
• McHenry County offers an excellent benefits package which includes:
• Four Medical plans, two Dental, and two vision plans. Additionally, we offer a strong package of supplemental benefits, Health Savings Account, Flexible spending account, IMRF Pension Plan, Deferred Compensation Plan through Nationwide Retirement Solutions, Paid Vacation, Sick, Personal Days and Holidays.

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.