The Office of State Public Defender (OSPD) will be created as an independent office within the judicial branch on January 1, 2027. The 2025 FAIR Act, Public Act 104-0300, created the Office to provide for an effective public defense system throughout the State of Illinois. OSPD is charged with implementing uniform standards for trial-level public defense; systematically evaluating local needs and capacity; offering specialized support to local jurisdictions (i.e., investigation, mitigation, and expert witness assistance); and establishing clear and equitable procedures for distributing the Public Defender Fund, among other duties to ensure consistent, equitable, and high-quality defense services.
The Deputy General Counsel assists the General Counsel by conducting legal research, reviewing legislation, interpreting state and federal law, reviewing appellate opinions and performing other legal services. The Deputy General Counsel works under the general supervision of the General Counsel.
Minimum Qualifications:
A Juris Doctorate Degree from a law school accredited by the American Bar Association.
Licensed to practice law in Illinois.
Three or more years of practicing law.
Must possess a valid Illinois driver’s license and demonstrate proof of automobile insurance to operate a personal vehicle on state business, as well as maintain a safe driving record.
Three years of experience with criminal procedure in Illinois or federal courts.
Preferred Qualifications:
Five or more years of practicing law
Five years of experience with legal research and writing.
Five years of experience drafting, researching or analyzing legislation.
Five years of experience with criminal procedure in Illinois or federal courts.
To read the full job listing or apply online, please visit www.ilosps.gov/114/Deputy-General-Counsel/employment-opportunities-detail/.
NLADA Mutual Insurance Co., RRG
