Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois

OCJ - Law Clerk II/ Division Attorney - Criminal Division

CHICAGO, ILPosted 30+ days ago

Job summary

  • Job post source

    This job is directly from Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois

  • Job overview

    The Law Clerk II in the Criminal Division assists judges with legal matters, ensuring access to justice through research and analysis.

  • Responsibilities and impact

    Daily responsibilities include assisting judges in courtroom proceedings, researching legal issues, preparing memoranda, and drafting legal documents.

  • Compensation and benefits

    The salary for this position is $67,389, with a reduced starting salary of $56,313 for law school graduates pending Illinois licensure.

  • Experience and skills

    Candidates must have a Juris Doctor degree, an active Illinois law license, and strong legal research skills, along with excellent communication abilities.

  • Career development

    Opportunities for professional growth may include gaining courtroom experience and developing legal research skills.

  • Work environment and culture

    The office promotes a professional environment focused on access to justice and equal opportunity for all employees.

  • Company information

    The Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois, is committed to providing fair and impartial justice, serving a diverse community with various legal services.

  • Team overview

    The Law Clerk II will work closely with judges and court staff, contributing to a collaborative legal team.

  • Job location and travel

    The position is based in Cook County, Illinois, requiring in-office work with standard office conditions.

  • Application process

    Applicants must undergo a pre-employment drug screening and criminal background check, with specific instructions provided during the application process.

  • Unique job features

    This role offers unique insights into the judicial process and opportunities to assist with significant legal matters.

Company overview

The Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois, is one of the largest unified court systems in the world, serving over five million residents. It handles a wide range of cases, including criminal, civil, domestic relations, and juvenile matters. Established in 1964, the court system is divided into multiple divisions and districts to efficiently manage its extensive caseload. The court generates revenue through various fees, fines, and court costs associated with legal proceedings. Understanding its structure and history is crucial for candidates seeking roles within this judicial institution.

How to land this job

  • Position your resume to emphasize your legal research skills, proficiency in legal writing, and experience in courtroom proceedings, as these are vital for the Law Clerk II role.

  • Highlight your strong commitment to access to justice and professional demeanor, showcasing your ability to maintain confidentiality and sound judgment in legal matters.

  • Apply through multiple platforms, including the Circuit Court of Cook County's corporate site and LinkedIn, to maximize your chances of being noticed for this position.

  • Reach out to individuals in the Criminal Division at Circuit Court of Cook County on LinkedIn to learn more about the role and the team culture; ice breakers could include asking about their experiences or discussing recent legal developments relevant to the division.

  • Optimize your resume for ATS by incorporating keywords from the job description such as 'legal research,' 'courtroom proceedings,' and 'collaboration,' ensuring your application gets through initial screenings.

  • Utilizing Jennie Johnson's Power Apply feature can simplify your application process, tailoring your resume and identifying the best channels to submit your application, allowing you to focus on networking and preparation.

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