The Legal Secretary provides comprehensive clerical and administrative support to the Public Defender's Office attorneys representing indigent clients. This role requires managing sensitive information with strict confidentiality, maintaining a high volume of case files, and interacting professionally with clients, court staff, and law enforcement.  This position is grant-funded and continued full time employment depends on ongoing grant awards.

• Case Management: Establish, organize, and maintain detailed electronic and physical case files from arraignment through disposition.
• Docketing & Scheduling: Track court deadlines, schedule client appointments, and manage calendars for defense attorneys.
• Client & Public Contact: Serve as the primary point of contact in person and over the phone for clients; handling inquiries with empathy and professionalism.
• Document Preparation: Draft, proofread, and format motions, subpoenas, petitions, brief filings, and standard legal correspondence.
• Court Coordination: File legal documents and coordinate the transport or appearance of clients. 

• Education: High school diploma or GED required; an Associate degree or Legal Secretary certificate is highly preferred.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel) and modern court case management systems.
• Knowledge: Familiarity with basic legal terminology, local court procedures, and criminal justice timelines.
• Core Competencies: Strong written and verbal communication skills, high attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and a commitment to public service.
• Maintain strict confidentiality regarding all office matters, cases and investigations.
• Ability to communicate efficiently and effectively.
• Must obtain a Notary Public Bond and License if hired.
• Self-starter and ability to promptly complete tasks upon receipt of assignments.

Full time position, 35 hours per week, 8:00 am to 4:00 pm Monday - Friday.  (1-hour unpaid lunch)

FLSA Status - Non-exempt

Pay range $17.00 - $20.00 per hour depending on experience and education

15 paid company holidays

Accrual of 10 vacation days each fiscal year

Accrual of 12 sick days each fiscal year

Accrual of 4 personal days each fiscal year

Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund - IMRF has provided employees a sound and efficient system for the payment of retirement, disability, and death benefits

Eligible to participate in available medical and dental insurance plan beginning the first day of the month following hire date

Vision reimbursement

Life Insurance paid by the County

Friendly and supportive coworkers 

The County will accept resumes until position is filled.

Union County Government is committed to nondiscrimination in hiring, promotion, discharge, pay, fringe benefits, and other aspects of employment, on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, national origin, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or ancestry.