Entry-Level Assistant State’s Attorney – Public Prosecution

Cook County State's Attorney Office; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 97,000 - 112,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision plans

PTO (Paid Time Off)

Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)

Employee Assistance Program

Pension plan

Job summary

The Cook County State’s Attorney Office in Chicago seeks entry level Assistant State’s Attorneys to join multiple bureaus. This in-person role requires a JD, Illinois bar admission by November 2026, and strong legal research and trial preparation skills.

Positions offer exposure to criminal prosecutions, special victims, juvenile justice, and opportunities to work with diverse law enforcement agencies while serving the public.

Qualifications

• J.D. from an accredited law school.
• Be a member in good standing with the Illinois bar or have received their 2026 bar results and scheduled for admission to the Illinois bar in November 2026.
• Excellent legal research and legal writing abilities.
• Demonstrate the ability to articulate sound legal arguments both orally and in writing, as well as articulate the rationale for decisions made.
• A solid work ethic and show attention to detail and accountability.
• Ability to work independently as well as be part of a team, including courtroom personnel.

Responsibilities

• Will prosecute matters under the Criminal Code of the State of Illinois.
• Will be required to manage misdemeanor, traffic, and juvenile delinquency caseloads; review evidence for felony charges; handle preliminary hearings, grand jury indictments, and detention hearings.
• Will be expected to work closely with multiple law enforcement agencies and represent the People of the State of Illinois in hearings and trials.
• Work well with people from diverse communities, work independently, have excellent time management skills and be self-initiating.
• Effectively communicate the mission and values of the CCSAO to members of the community.
• Litigate motions, petitions, bench and jury trials and all functions related to the aforementioned trials.

Skills

Legal research

Legal writing

Oral advocacy

Independent work

Attention to detail

Team collaboration

Education

Juris Doctor (J.D.)

Job description

The Cook County State’s Attorney Office in Chicago seeks entry level Assistant State’s Attorneys to join multiple bureaus. This in-person role requires a JD, Illinois bar admission by November 2026, and strong legal research and trial preparation skills.

Positions offer exposure to criminal prosecutions, special victims, juvenile justice, and opportunities to work with diverse law enforcement agencies while serving the public.