Opportunities

In addition to offering competitive salaries, employees receive a robust benefits package including medical, dental, vision, prescription drug benefits, life insurance, and pension plan; paid time off, including vacation, sick, personal time, and 13 paid holidays; Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program; 12-week Paid Parental Leave; and remote work opportunities. Information concerning benefits can be found at the Circuit Court of Cook County Employment Opportunities Page. The Office of the Cook County Public Guardian is an equal-opportunity employer. Qualified candidates may submit a resume and cover letter to Kelley A. Thornton, Deputy of Administration & Human Resources, at kelley.thornton@cookcountyil.gov

Data Entry Clerk

Grade: 12

Salary: $52,306

Location: Juvenile Division

Benefits: Information concerning the benefits for this position can be found at the Circuit Court of Cook County Employment Opportunities Page.

Job Summary: The 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. Clerks in the Office of the Cook County Public Guardian perform tasks such as handling correspondence, filing documents, issuing and delivering court documents, and maintaining office files.

QUALIFICATIONS:

High School Diploma or GED required.
Computer literacy – including familiarity with email, word processing, spreadsheet, and database software (Outlook, Word, Excel, LANSA, etc.).
Accurate and efficient typing skills for data entry, responding to emails, and other documents.
Experience managing multiline phones.
Possess excellent front-office customer service skills to interact with the public.
Must be well-organized, with the ability to prioritize and complete multiple tasks with attention to detail.
Possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work independently and with a team.
Must have integrity and discretion when working with confidential and sensitive client information.
Valid Illinois Driver’s License required.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Operate Office Machines: Computers, scanners, copiers, facsimile, and postage machines.
Data Entry: Accurately input, update, verify, resolve discrepancies, and maintain electronic data in office databases and case management systems.
Scan Documents: Accurately scan, archive, and quality control scanned electronic files.
Maintain Postage Usage Spreadsheet: Maintain and generate postage usage reports.
Phone Calls: Follow up with law enforcement agencies regarding CIU investigation requests; respond to outside adoption attorneys’ requests for information.
Receptionist: Provide back-up assistance to the front desk receptionist.
Mailroom: Provide back-up mailroom assistance to the mailroom clerk.
Runner: Provide backup assistance to the runner clerk for delivery and pick up documents for westside and downtown offices, and for delivery and pick up of documents for CIU.
Special Projects: Assist with special projects and other back-up assignments as needed.
Respond promptly to calls, email, regular mail and other inquiries daily or in a timely manner.

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Sit at desk for long periods of time in front of computer screen.
Intermittently twist to reach equipment or supplies.
Perform grasping and fine manipulation.
Strength to lift files weighing up to 20 pounds.
Use telephone and computer keyboard regularly.
Drive a government issued vehicle.

Clinical Child Psychologist

Location: Juvenile Division

Salary: $162,348

Benefits: Information concerning benefits for this position can be found at the Circuit Court of Cook County Employment Opportunities Page.

Summary: The Clinical Child Psychologist provides consultation to Office of the Public Guardian’s multidisciplinary staff regarding client mental health needs and services, advocates for child clients at clinical staffings and administrative meetings and monitors systemic developments in mental health service delivery to clients. The Clinical Child Psychologist visits child clients in hospitals, foster homes, schools, and in other environments on occasion as necessary. The position strengthens and broadens the Office’s expertise and mission in advocating for the best care for our clients.

Qualifications: A doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) with specialization in Clinical Child Psychology is required. Must be licensed as a Clinical Psychologist in the State of Illinois and have experience working with children and adolescents who have been abused and neglected. Experience and knowledge regarding child welfare practice in Illinois is required. Must be well organized, detail oriented, able to handle multiple tasks, possess excellent oral and written communication skills, and have proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and developing technology. Must be able to work independently and as part of an interdisciplinary team, and maintain a professional demeanor. Must have a valid Illinois Driver’s License and insurance. Travel within and outside of Cook County is required.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Consult with the attorneys, social workers and other OPG staff.
Review clinical and legal documentation pertaining to client welfare.
Attend and advocate for client needs at hospital, agency, and DCFS staffings.
Interview clients and provide recommendations.
Provide detailed, clearly written documentation of all client contact, participation in staffings, and advocacy.
Develop and conduct staff trainings.
Supervise graduate level practicum student projects.
Conduct visits and observations of clients at residential treatment facilities, and make recommendations.
Monitor and analyze data pertaining to client welfare and mental health services for the purpose of advocating for client needs and alerting Public Guardian staff when problematic situations and trends are discovered.
Independently research and disseminate information related to evidence-based mental health services and child welfare practice.
Provide assistance to the Domestic Relations and Adult Guardianship Divisions as needed.

The above is intended to describe the general responsibilities and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive statement of essential functions, responsibilities, duties or requirements. Other duties may be assigned and/or may be necessary in the performance of the job.

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

On a continuous basis, sit at a desk for long periods of time in front of a computer screen;
Drive within Cook County and surrounding suburbs;
Perform simple grasping and fine manipulation;
Strength to lift files weighing up to 20 pounds;
Use telephone and computer keyboard daily.

Paralegal I – AFSCME Council 31, Local 3969

Location: Juvenile Division

Salary: $69,506

Benefits: Information concerning benefits for this position can be found at the Circuit Court of Cook County Employment Opportunities Page.

SUMMARY: Paralegals in the Juvenile Division assist attorneys by gathering and organizing information, conducting legal research, attending staffings, preparing legal pleadings and conducting client interviews. As a professional partner in the service of children, the paralegal is expected to be familiar with and perform all duties consistent with the ethical requirements as set forth in the Illinois Supreme Court Rules, Article VIII, and Code of Professional Responsibility. Additionally, each paralegal is expected to observe confidentiality in client matters and ensure the health, safety and welfare of our clients.

QUALIFICATIONS: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. In addition, a paralegal must hold a post-graduate certificate in Paralegal Studies from an American Bar Association approved program or a law degree from an American Bar Association approved Law School. In lieu of a paralegal certificate or law degree, the paralegal must possess three (3) or more years of relevant experience as a paralegal. Must possess excellent professional judgment, problem solving, analytical reasoning, communication, and interpersonal skills. Must be organized, detail oriented, have the ability to handle multiple tasks, work efficiently within a fast paced environment and meet constant deadlines. Must be able to work independently as part of an interdisciplinary team, and maintain a professional demeanor. Proficient legal research and computer skills necessary, including abilities in LexisNexis, Excel and Microsoft Office.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: The following core duties are fundamental to the performance of the job. Other duties may be assigned and/or may be necessary to the performance of the job.

• Conduct legal research.

• Prepare motions and responses.

• Prepare subpoenas and monitor compliance.

• Assist attorneys with all aspects of trial preparation.

• Review and summarize documents.

• Conduct client, caregiver, and case manager interviews, and make recommendations as needed.

• Maintain Out-of-Area database and incarcerated clients lists.

• Conduct and assist with periodic data audits.

• Create and maintain client case files.

• Review and organize discovery.

• Attend client staffings and summarize information for assigned attorney.

• Assist with special projects upon request.

• Obtain documents (e.g. birth certificates, criminal records, medical records) for cases.

• Coordinate client interviews at residential facilities, out of area placements, and correctional facilities.

• Coordinate inter-office meetings.

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

· On a continuous basis, sit 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.

This position requires a pre-employment drug screening and criminal background check. Applicants are advised that as a Drug Free Workplace, use of medical or recreational marijuana is prohibited and will disqualify a candidate from employment.

THE OFFICE OF THE PUBLIC GUARDIAN IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Attorney I

Grade: 18

Location: Juvenile Division

Salary: $91,704

Information concerning benefits for this position can be found at the Circuit Court of Cook County Employment Opportunities Page.

SUMMARY: The 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.

QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school.

2. Licensed to practice law in the State of Illinois.

3. Experience in public service and children’s issues.

4. Must have excellent professional judgment and demeanor, assessment, communication, interpersonal and problem-solving skills.

5. 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.

6. Must work well independently and work as part of an interdisciplinary team.

7. Must possess strong computer skills especially with Microsoft Office, Word, Excel and video conferencing applications.

8. Possess a valid driver’s license.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

The following core duties and tasks are fundamental to the performance of the job and must be performed pursuant to office policy. Other duties may be assigned and/or may be necessary in the performance of the job.

1. Represent and advocate for clients competently and effectively as attorney and/or guardian ad litem.

2. Advocate for client’s wishes and/or best interest based on individual circumstances.

3. Practice law ethically in accordance with the Illinois Code of Professional Responsibility and relevant case law.

4. Prepare cases for court, hearings or other meetings in a timely manner (e.g., initiate discovery, file appropriate pleadings, convene staffings).

5. 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.

6. Draft well-written and factual pleadings, correspondence and other documents.

7. Conduct legal research.

8. 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.

9. Develop and maintain a working knowledge of available resources to assist clients.

10. Seek out supervision and assistance with issues as they arise; follow supervisory direction.

11. Attend and participate in trainings required to maintain skill, competency, and knowledge of the law and to complete MCLE requirements.

12. 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 REQUIREMENTS:

· Sit 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

Attorney I

Grade: 18

Location: Domestic Relations Division

Salary: $91,704

Information concerning benefits for this position can be found at the Circuit Court of Cook County Employment Opportunities Page.

QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school.

2. Licensed to practice law in the State of Illinois.

3. Experience in public service and children’s issues.

4. Must have excellent professional judgment and demeanor, assessment, communication, interpersonal and problem-solving skills.

6. Must work well independently and work as part of an interdisciplinary team.

7. Must possess strong computer skills especially with Microsoft Office, Word, Excel and video conferencing applications.

8. Possess a valid driver’s license.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Represent and advocate for clients competently and effectively as attorney and/or guardian ad litem.

2. Advocate for client’s wishes and/or best interest based on individual circumstances.

3. Practice law ethically in accordance with the Illinois Code of Professional Responsibility and relevant case law.

4. Prepare cases for court, hearings or other meetings in a timely manner (e.g., initiate discovery, file appropriate pleadings, convene staffings).

6. Draft well-written and factual pleadings, correspondence and other documents.

7. Conduct legal research.

8. 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.

9. Develop and maintain a working knowledge of available resources to assist clients.

10. Seek out supervision and assistance with issues as they arise; follow supervisory direction.

11. Attend and participate in trainings required to maintain skill, competency, and knowledge of the law and to complete MCLE requirements.

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

· Sit 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

Attorney I

Grade: 18

Location: Adult Guardianship Division

Salary: $91,704

Benefits: Information concerning benefits for this position can be found at the Circuit Court of Cook County Employment Opportunities Page

JOB SUMMARY: Attorneys in the Domestic Relations Division provide legal representation for children whose parents are involved in contested custody or visitation disputes. As child representative, attorneys advocate for the best interest of our clients regarding custody, visitation, support, removal from the jurisdiction, and risk of harm in orders of protection. Attorney advocacy includes investigating the child’s situation, relationships, and allegations made by either party in order to take an informed position regarding what is in the child’s best interest.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school.
Licensed to practice law in the State of Illinois or admitted to practice law pursuant to Supreme Court Rule 717.
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.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

The following core duties are fundamental to the performance of the job; other duties may be assigned and/or may be necessary in the performance of the job.

Maintain regular and timely contact with clients.
Ensure that all client contact is developmentally appropriate.
Respond to calls, mail and other inquiries daily or in an otherwise timely manner.
Organize and maintain files, records and documents. Keep an accurate appointment book and enter all appointments, court appearances, etc., in the computer database as requested.
Accurately and regularly document time spent on each case for fee purposes. File with the court timely fee petitions and invoices every 90 days on each case or as requested.
Fully prepare cases, address basic and complex issues, meet filing deadlines, secure records, subpoena witnesses and complete follow up in a timely manner.
File motions and/or convene Settlement Conferences.
Develop and maintain a working knowledge of existing/emerging law regarding domestic relations, parentage, abuse/neglect, domestic violence and other issues affecting children and families (including administrative rules, regulations and procedures).
Effectively and professionally advocate before judges, hearing officers, administrative law judges and others as necessary.
Effectively conduct negotiations, settlement conferences, and promote discussion, when appropriate, to resolve matters.
Work effectively with other individuals involved with a case (e.g. medical professionals, social workers, teachers, other attorneys, etc.).
Work effectively with co-workers and display initiative and willingness to assist others and take on additional tasks.
Seek out supervision and assistance with issues as they arise.
Exhibit willingness to serve in other capacities within the office and/or on behalf of the office (e.g. training committee, mentoring law clerks, committees within the Domestic Relations Division of the court); represent OPG at seminars, symposia, conferences, etc. (including out of the area and out of state) and make presentations and speeches upon request.
Perform additional tasks/responsibilities as assigned by the Supervising Attorney.
Arrive promptly on a daily basis and work the hours necessary to thoroughly and appropriately represent our clients and fulfill other job duties.
Learn and comply with all office policies and procedures and attend all required meetings, including staff meetings and child representative trainings sponsored by the Presiding Judge of the Domestic Relations Division.
Attend and participate in training required to maintain skill, competency, and knowledge of the law; comply with all requirements for mandatory continuing legal education.
Develop and maintain a working knowledge of services, programs, and evaluators available to assist clients and their families.
Be willing to perform any additional tasks that may be needed to ensure that the office and division runs efficiently and effectively

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

On a continuous basis, sit 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

THE OFFICE OF THE PUBLIC GUARDIAN IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

OFFICE CLERK

GRADE: 12

LOCATION: Adult Guardianship Division

SALARY: $52,306

BENEFITS: Information concerning benefits for this position can be found at the Circuit Court of Cook County Employment Opportunities Page.

JOB SUMMARY: The Cook County Public Guardian’s Adult Guardianship Division (OPG) serves as the court-appointed guardian for adults adjudicated as persons with disabilities by the Probate Division of the Circuit Court of Cook County. The Office Clerk is responsible for performing tasks such as handling correspondence, filing, issuing, and delivering court documents, maintaining office files and providing switchboard relief.

QUALIFICATIONS: High School Diploma or GED certification required. Must be well organized, detail oriented, have the ability to handle multiple tasks, have excellent communication (oral and written), professional and interpersonal skills. Must be able to work independently and as part of a team to meet constant deadlines. Must have a valid driver’s license.

This position requires a pre-employment drug screening and criminal background check. Applicants are advised that as a Drug-Free Workplace, the use of medical or recreational marijuana is prohibited and will disqualify a candidate from employment.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

The following core duties are fundamental to the performance of the job. Other duties may be assigned and/or may be necessary in the performance of the job.

1. File documents and prepare files for Adult Guardianship and Domestic Relations Divisions.

2. File and deliver court documentation.

3. Obtain and copy court files, medical records, and other documentation from various court houses and medical facilities.

4. Operate office machines including scanners, copiers, facsimile machines and Neopost machine.

5. Run various errands.

6. Perform data entry.

7. Scan and store archived files and other documents.

8. Complete quality control of scanned files.

9. Assist with case file management.

10. Assist with data entry.

11. Review data in various office systems.

12. Provide back-up assistance for the front desk/reception area, mailroom, and other support areas as needed.

13. Obtain vital statistic records.

14. Assist with special projects as needed.

15. Respond promptly to calls, email, regular mail and other inquiries daily or in an otherwise timely manner.

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

· On a continuous basis, sit 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.

Law Student Internship

(Juvenile, Adult Guardianship, and Domestic Relations Divisions & Appeals Unit)

The Juvenile and Domestic Relations Divisions and Appeals Unit welcome law clerks throughout the year to assist in representing clients from birth to age 21. Volunteers, grant recipients, and students working for credit are encouraged to apply. The law clerk program is designed to provide students with practical experience. Law clerks may request to be assigned to the Juvenile Division, the Domestic Relations Division, or the Appeals Unit. Duties may include drafting motions and other court documents, legal research, appellate briefs, case preparation, interviewing witnesses, and assisting experienced attorneys in advocating for children and youth. Students with a license issued pursuant to Illinois Supreme Court Rule 711 may appear in court under the supervision of a licensed attorney and receive training to interview child clients. All law clerks participate in an orientation and formal training. Each law clerk receives performance evaluations. Law clerks must be enrolled in an accredited law school, possess the ability to communicate and work with attorneys and other professional staff, demonstrate excellent oral and written communication skills, and show enthusiasm and assertiveness. All internships and clerkships are unpaid. Check with your school for externships or other credit arrangements. Volunteers, grant recipients, and students working for credit may submit a cover letter and resume via email to the Office of the Cook County Public Guardian, Attn: Law Clerk Coordinator, Law Clerk Program, opg@cookcountyil.gov. Deadlines for submitting applications are November 15th for Spring clerkships, March 15th for Summer clerkships, and July 15th for Fall clerkships.

The Adult Guardianship Division of the Office of the Cook County Public Guardian offers a unique opportunity to law students. Attorneys in the Adult Guardianship Division represent the Public Guardian in his capacity as guardian of disabled adults. While attorneys primarily handle guardianship matters in the Probate Division of the Circuit Court of Cook County, they often find themselves representing the Public Guardian on behalf of disabled adults in other divisions such as Municipal, Chancery, and Domestic Relations, to name a few. As law clerks in the Adult Guardianship Division, students assist attorneys by conducting legal research, drafting memoranda, motions, and other legal pleadings, and preparing for trial or other hearings. Student law clerks are also offered the unique opportunity to accompany attorneys in the field to conduct real property inspections, visit with disabled adults at their residences, and attend meetings with other professionals working with disabled adults. A law student with a license under Supreme Court Rule 711 may appear before the court supervised by one of the Adult Guardianship attorneys. All student law clerks are provided in-house training at the start of the clerkship and are mentored by the attorneys. All internships and clerkships are unpaid. Check with your school for externships or other credit arrangements. Interested law students should submit a cover letter and resume via email to the Office of the Cook County Public Guardian, Attn: Law Clerk Coordinator, Law Clerk Program, opg@cookcountyil.gov. Deadlines for submitting applications are November 15th for Spring clerkships, March 15th for Summer clerkships, and July 15th for Fall clerkships.

Caseworker Advocate Internship

The caseworker advocate student internship allows qualified students to assist the caseworker advocacy unit in interviewing children in order to gather information from the child’s perspective. This is a field position, requiring students to have a vehicle, a valid driver’s license, and insurance.

Psychology Student Internship

The Juvenile Division welcomes master’s and doctoral-level psychology students interested in completing a social justice practicum as part of their training through their academic program. Students interested in learning about advocacy, public service, marginalized populations, legal proceedings, and child welfare are encouraged to apply. Internships are unpaid. Psychology students will complete a project as part of a team that aims to facilitate advocacy in meeting the needs of our clients. Interns must be enrolled in an accredited institution with an educational agreement in place with our office, demonstrate good time management, analytical skills, and organizational abilities, and have an interest in research and a passion for learning about working with this population. Psychology students receive weekly supervision by a licensed clinical psychologist.

THE OFFICE OF THE PUBLIC GUARDIAN IS AN EQUAL-OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER