Paralegal I - Bridgeview Courthouse

Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office; Bridgeview (IL); On-site; USD 72,000 - 88,000; Full time

Job summary

The Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office in Bridgeview seeks a Paralegal I to support assigned Assistant State’s Attorneys at the Bridgeview Courthouse. You will conduct case research, assist with motions, organize files, and prepare exhibits for litigation, while maintaining strict confidentiality and working under Office Manager supervision.

This entry-level role requires a ABA-approved paralegal certificate, excellent written and verbal communication, and proficiency with Word and LEXIS.

Qualifications

• Paralegal certificate from an ABA-approved program.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills and strong organization.
• Experience in clerical and research support including document prep and review, interviews, and trial prep.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word and LEXIS required.

Responsibilities

• Research cases for attorneys using online resources and library materials.
• Abstract transcripts and complex pleadings; proofread charging instruments and prepare redacted material.
• Assist in filing motions and other pleadings; organize physical and digital files.
• Prepare exhibits for litigation and manage discovery for tendering to defense.
• Interact with Office staff and external agencies; maintain confidentiality.

Skills

Verbal and written communication

Organization skills

Multi-tasking

Microsoft Word proficiency

Education

Paralegal Certificate (ABA-approved)

Tools

LEXIS

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Office 365 Suite

Job description

Who We Are

The Cook County State's Attorney's Office (CCSAO) is a diverse and dedicated team of professionals committed to justice and safety for over five-million residents. As the second-largest prosecutor's office in the U.S., the CCSAO prosecutes criminal and regulatory violations across six bureaus and four units with a staff of over 1,200.

Our Mission

To uphold justice and public safety in Cook County by fairly, ethically, and effectively prosecuting crime, supporting victims, and protecting the rights of all residents.

Who We Are Looking For

We are seeking individuals who share our passion for justice, diversity, and the well-being of the community. Whether you are a legal professional, an investigator, or an administrative specialist, we value dedication, integrity, and a commitment to our values of accountability, respect, and fairness. Join our team if you are ready to make a tangible impact, work collaboratively, and uphold the principles of justice with unwavering dedication. At the Cook County State's Attorney's Office, your skills and values will help shape a safer and stronger Cook County.

Job Title

Paralegal I (#478)

Reports to

Office Manager

Level

Entry/Union/Full-Time

Salary

$79,895

Grade/Step

18

Location

10220 S 76th Ave/Bridgeview Courthouse

Bureau

Administrative Services

Application Deadline

September 23, 2026

General Description

Responsible for the paralegal functions of the Assistant State’s Attorneys assigned to the Bridgeview Courthouse.

Working Environment

Work Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30am – 4:30pm.

Physical Requirements

Light Work: The position requires the ability to stand or walk frequently, often for extended periods. You may need to lift, carry, push, or pull objects weighing up to 20 pounds regularly, and occasionally heavier items. The job may also involve a significant amount of walking or standing relative to sedentary roles.

Duties/Responsibilities

• Research cases for attorneys, using both online research (LEXIS) and library resources.
• Perform additional research using CRIMES, Clerks, Leads, Illinois Department of Corrections, and the Cook County Department of Corrections websites.
• Abstract transcripts and complex pleadings
• Proofread charging instruments and prepare redacted material.
• Assist in the preparation and filing of motions and other pleadings.
• Review and annotate digital media.
• Produce exhibits for litigation.
• Request, monitor the status of, and package discovery for tendering to the defense.
• Organize physical and digital files.
• Assist attorneys with the preparation and presentation of evidence at evidentiary hearings.
• Interact regularly with State’s Attorney’s Office employees and personnel of outside agencies.
• Maintain confidentiality of information and systems.
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Qualifications

Required

• A Paralegal Certificate from an ABA-approved program.
• The candidate must have excellent verbal and written communication skills, excellent organizational skills, and the ability to multi-task.
• Experience in clerical and research support services including but not limited to document preparation and review, interviewing clients and witnesses, research, investigations, and fact-checking, and trial preparation
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word applications and LEXIS, required.

Preferred

• Knowledge of Microsoft Office 365 Suite, such as SharePoint, TEAMS, Outlook, Planner, and List, CRIMES, NICE Evidence Management Systems and Clerks preferred.

Equal Employment Opportunity

EEO Message: The Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office (CCSAO) is an equal opportunity employer, which seeks to recruit, develop, and retain the most talented people from a diverse candidate pool. The CCSAO does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, age, physical and mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, and any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. Upon request, the CCSAO will provide reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals due to a disability or pregnancy. The EEOP report can be found on our website at www.cookcountystatesattorney.org.