OFFICE OF THE PUBLIC GUARDIANJOB DESCRIPTIONJob Title: Attorney IGrade: 18Location: Juvenile DivisionSalary: $91,704Benefits: Information concerning benefits for this position can be found at theCircuit Court of Cook County Employment Opportunities Page.SUMMARYThe Cook County Public Guardian represents youth in care as both their attorney and guardian ad litem. Child Protection judges appoint the Public Guardian to promote the goals of the Juvenile Court Act and ensure the client's safety and well-being are met by the Department of Children and Family Services and caregivers. The Public Guardian's advocacy extends to various areas of the law and settings. At all times the attorney is to follow the ethical rules set forth in the Illinois Rules of Professional Conduct and relevant case law.QUALIFICATIONSJuris Doctor degree from an accredited law school.Licensed to practice law in the State of Illinois.Experience in public service and children's issues.Must have excellent professional judgment and demeanor, assessment, communication, interpersonal and problem-solving skills.Must be well organized, detail-oriented, have the ability to prioritize work, meet constant deadlines, maintain confidentiality, handle multiple tasks, and deal with situations of stress and emergency within a fast-paced environment.Must work well independently and work as part of an interdisciplinary team.Must possess strong computer skills especially with Microsoft Office, Word, Excel and video conferencing applications.Possess a valid driver's license.ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIESRepresent and advocate for clients competently and effectively as attorney and/or guardian ad litem.Advocate for client's wishes and/or best interest based on individual circumstances.Practice law ethically in accordance with the Illinois Code of Professional Responsibility and relevant case law.Prepare cases for court, hearings or other meetings in a timely manner (e.g., initiate discovery, file appropriate pleadings, convene staffings).Demonstrate familiarity and competency with using the Illinois Code of Civil Procedure, the Juvenile Court Act, other appropriate statutes, and relevant case law for civil and administrative practice.Draft well-written and factual pleadings, correspondence and other documents.Conduct legal research.Maintain regular and timely in-person and remote contact with clients that includes targeting an average of four field interviews per month and assist with out-of-area visits.Develop and maintain a working knowledge of available resources to assist clients.Seek out supervision and assistance with issues as they arise; follow supervisory direction.Attend and participate in trainings required to maintain skill, competency, and knowledge of the law and to complete MCLE requirements.Exhibit willingness to serve in other capacities within the office and/or on behalf of OPG (e.g., serve on office committees, interview and supervise law clerks, conduct research, lead trainings, attend legal conferences, special projects).WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTSSit at a desk for long periods of time in front of a computer screen.Intermittently twist to reach equipment or supplies surrounding desk.Perform simple grasping and fine manipulation.Strength to lift files weighing up to 20 pounds.Use telephone and computer keyboard on a daily basis.THE OFFICE OF THE PUBLIC GUARDIAN IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER#J-18808-Ljbffr