Assistant State's Attorney - Law Enforcement Review Unit (LERU)

The Cook County State's Attorney's Office (CCSAO) is a diverse and dedicated team of professionals committed to justice and safety for over five-million residents. As the second-largest prosecutor's office in the U.S., the CCSAO prosecutes criminal and regulatory violations across six bureaus and four units with a staff of over 1,200. Mission To uphold justice and public safety in Cook County by fairly, ethically, and effectively prosecuting crime, supporting victims, and protecting the rights of all residents. Who We Are Looking For We are seeking individuals who share our passion for justice, diversity, and the well-being of the community. Whether you are a legal professional, an investigator, or an administrative specialist, we value dedication, integrity, and a commitment to our values of accountability, respect, and fairness. Join our team if you are ready to make a tangible impact, work collaboratively, and uphold the principles of justice with unwavering dedication. At the Cook County State's Attorney's Office, your skills and values will help shape a safer and stronger Cook County. Position: Assistant State's Attorney – Law Enforcement Review Unit (LERU) Reports to: LERU Supervisor | Grade/Step: AY3/101 – AY1/101 | Salary: $114,879 - $146,970 | Location: George N. Leighton Criminal Courthouse, 2650 South California Ave. | Contract Type: Full-time, bargaining unit exempt position | Application Deadline: September 25, 2026 | Note: The Cook County State's Attorney's Office does not sponsor H1-B work visa petitions. Position Description: The Law Enforcement Accountability Division (LERU) is seeking an Assistant State’s Attorney. The Assistant State’s Attorneys in LERU are responsible for reviewing allegations of on-duty misconduct by law enforcement officers throughout Cook County to determine whether criminal prosecution is appropriate. LERU reviews all officer-involved shootings and deaths that occur in police custody, as well as allegations of excessive force, official misconduct, perjury, bribery, theft, obstructing justice, aggravated/reckless discharge of a firearm, and sex offenses. LERU vertically prosecutes all cases resulting in criminal charges and presents evidence and witness testimony before the grand jury. This is a full-time bargaining unit exempt position. Working Environment & Reporting Structure Assistant State’s Attorneys assigned to LERU report directly to the Supervisor of LERU. LERU falls under the First Assistant State’s Attorney, and their cases then are reported directly to the State’s Attorney. Duties & Responsibilities Assistant State’s Attorneys in LERU are responsible for drafting internal memoranda summarizing investigations and supporting charging and declination recommendations. ASAs in the Unit have the opportunity to work with a variety of investigative partners including the Chicago Police Department, Civilian Office of Police Accountability, Illinois State Police Public Integrity Task Force, Cook County Sheriff’s Police, and Federal Bureau of Investigation. LERU ASAs will be on call for one week every eight weeks to respond to calls concerning officer involved shootings which may require responding to police stations to interview witnesses and assist with other aspects of the investigation. Because of the specialized nature of LERU’s work and the time needed to properly train new members of LERU, the selected ASA should expect to remain in the position for a minimum of two years. Minimum Qualifications Must possess a law degree from an accredited institution and be licensed in Illinois with a minimum of three years of experience. If not licensed in IL, confirm what steps are being taken to become licensed in IL. Strong research, writing, and oral advocacy skills; Willingness to become familiar with Title III, Confidential Overhears, and requirements for obtaining search warrants, particularly for cellular phone data and social media; Strong organizational skills with great attention to detail; Excellent communication skills, interpersonal skills, and ability to promote team building and be a self-starter; Sound judgment, critical thinking, analytical, and effective time management skills; Must uphold the mission, vision, and values of the Office at all times; Commitment to applying a vertical prosecution model including long-term investigations and complex trials with multiple crimes and defendants; and Willingness to be vetted for assignment as a Special United States Attorney and willingness to partner closely with local and Federal law enforcement and Federal prosecutors. Preferred Qualifications Prior criminal law trial experience is a plus but not required. Litigation experience. Legal writing experience. Felony Review line ASA experience. Equal Employment Opportunity The Cook County State's Attorney's Office (CCSAO) is an equal opportunity employer, which seeks to recruit, develop, and retain the most talented people from a diverse candidate pool. The CCSAO does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, age, physical and mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, and any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. Upon request, the CCSAO will provide reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals due to a disability or pregnancy. The EEOP report can be found on our website at Benefits Choose from a variety of medical, dental, and vision plans to best suit your lifestyle and needs. We provide a robust Paid Time Off (PTO) program, including vacation, personal, and sick leave, as well as 13 paid holidays. As a public service employer, our employees may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. Our Employee Assistance Program offers confidential counseling and referral services to help you navigate life's challenges. And of course, a pension plan through Cook County. Follow this link to the Cook County Benefits and this link to Cook County Pension Fund if you want to learn more about our amazing benefit coverage. The CCSAO does not provide relocation assistance. #J-18808-Ljbffr Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office