Senior Assistant Public Defender — Felony Trial Leader

Peoria County; Peoria (IL); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Peoria County Public Defender's Office seeks an experienced criminal defense attorney to fill the First Assistant Public Defender role. This supervisory position requires strong organizational, administrative, supervisory and advocacy capabilities to manage felony case loads and strategic staff coordination.

The candidate will work with the Public Defender to shape office policies, optimize resources, and implement systems for fluctuating caseloads while mentoring junior defenders and

Qualifications

• Licensed Illinois attorney in good standing.
• Minimum 5 years experience in criminal defense.
• Proven record handling felony jury trials.
• Well-organized, reliable, flexible, and responsive to client needs.
• Commitment to public defense and equal justice under the law.
• Supervisory experience and public defense prefered but not required.

Responsibilities

• Supervise and evaluate assistant public defenders.
• Manage caseloads, assignment logistics, and workflow.
• Develop and implement office policies and structured systems.
• Coordinate with Office Manager to ensure timely administrative operations.
• Mentor junior staff and oversee staff allocation during fluctuating caseloads.
• Oversee staff recruitment, training, and performance evaluations.

Skills

Organizational skills

Administrative skills

Supervisory skills

Advocacy skills

Criminal defense experience

Education

Licensed attorney in Illinois

Tools

Case management systems

Job description

Peoria County Public Defender's Office seeks an experienced criminal defense attorney to fill the First Assistant Public Defender role. This supervisory position requires strong organizational, administrative, supervisory and advocacy capabilities to manage felony case loads and strategic staff coordination.

The candidate will work with the Public Defender to shape office policies, optimize resources, and implement systems for fluctuating caseloads while mentoring junior defenders and