Regional FOIA/Privacy/Subpoena Counsel

Position Overview The Illinois Department of Corrections is seeking a motivated and collaborative attorney to join our growing legal team. The role focuses on handling Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests and subpoenas. Key responsibilities include reviewing these requests for legal validity, coordinating with stakeholders to gather required documents, and advising staff on FOIA-related issues. The attorney conducts legal research, makes timely objections when necessary, and ensures all documents are secure and properly redacted before production. They maintain organized records of requests, run reports, and alert leadership about process deficiencies. The ideal candidate will be an attorney seeking a fast-paced position. We invite all attorneys interested in meaningful legal work to apply! Essential Functions Serves as a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), Subpoena, and Privacy Counsel for assigned regions. Updates docketing systems, databases, and other electronic files consisting of subpoenas and their responses. Consults with and advises Department administrative staff, attorneys, and other interested parties regarding their rights, responsibilities, and duties of the Department. Conducts complex technical research for administrative officials of the Department. Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated above. Minimum Qualifications Requires possession of a license to practice law in the State of Illinois. Requires prior experience equivalent to three (3) years of progressively responsible administrative experience in the practice of law. Preferred Qualifications Prefers at least four (4) years of civil litigation experience handling federal, state, or administrative proceedings. Prefers at least four (4) years of experience drafting legal memoranda, briefs, or pleadings. Prefers at least two (2) years of professional experience working with laws, policies, or regulations for a corrections agency. Prefers at least two (2) years of experience managing attorneys and support staff. Prefers at least two (2) years of experience developing litigation strategy, settlement and appeal posture in designated significant civil actions. Prefers at least four (4) years of experience conducting legal research. Prefers at least two (2) years of experience working in a large agency or organization. Prefers at least two (2) years of experience in handling constitutional or administrative law. Prefers at least two (2) years of professional experience working with laws, policies, or regulations for a corrections agency. Prefers at least two (2) years of experience utilizing Microsoft software such as Word, Excel, and Outlook, or similar software products. Conditions of Employment Requires possession of a current, active license to practice law in the State of Illinois. Requires ability to travel in the performance of duties, with overnight stays as appropriate. Overtime is a condition of employment, and you may be required/mandated to work overtime including scheduled, unscheduled, or last-minute overtime. Requires use of agency-supplied equipment (i.e., mobile phone, laptop, etc.). Requires ability to attend seminars, conferences, and trainings to stay current on methods, tools, ideologies, or other industry related topics relevant to the job duties. Requires ability to pass the IDOC/IDJJ background check. Requires ability to pass a drug screen. The use of unauthorized drugs by an employee, regardless of position held, is prohibited. Applicants are required to abide by all vaccine and/or other medical standards as set out by the employer. Required to utilize digital technology, tools, platforms, and processes in managing and supporting various digital enhancements for greater efficiency, productivity, and digital transformation efforts within the department. The conditions of employment listed here are incorporated and related to any of the job duties as listed in the job description. Work Hours: 8:30 - 5:00 p.m. Monday - Friday; Sat/Sun off Headquarter Location: Chicago - 555 W Monroe St - 555 W Monroe St, Chicago, Illinois, 60661 Work County: Cook Agency Contact: Jamie Barrett Email: View email address on click.appcast.io Posting Group: Leadership & Management; Public Safety This position DOES NOT contain “Specialized Skills” (as that term is used in CBAs). DEI Statement The Illinois Department of Corrections is a multicultural agency deeply committed to ensuring diversity, equity, and inclusion. This commitment is at the forefront of our operations, hiring, policies and procedures, and training. We recognize the benefit of workplace empowerment, the importance of diversity and fully support an environment where ALL employees are treated fairly, respectfully, and have equal access to opportunities and resources necessary to thrive and contribute to the agency’s success. IDOC genuinely values the differences of individuals in our custody and is committed to ensuring a healthy living environment where they feel valued, respected, and included. Through our commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), we shall establish and uphold agency policies and practices conducive to eliminating all forms of exclusion including, but not limited to, racism, ageism, ableism, sexism, discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender, and religious oppression. The IDOC team works to serve justice in Illinois and increase public safety by promoting positive change in behavior of individuals in custody, operating successful reentry programs, and reducing victimization. Employees enjoy excellent benefits, including health, vision, and dental insurance; retirement plan and deferred compensation; state holidays and other benefit time off; and pre-tax benefit programs. The department also offers extensive training and career advancement opportunities. The Illinois Department of Corrections is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. As an IDOC employee, you are entitled to a robust benefits package that includes: Flexible work schedule in some program areas (Flex time and Hybrid options) Health, Life, Vision and Dental Insurance 12 weeks paid maternity/paternity leave Pension Plan - Vesting at 10 years for Tier II Full 20-year retirement awards free health insurance during retirement Deferred compensation and other pre-tax benefits programs Paid state holidays: 13 - 14 day annually 3 paid Personal Business days annually 12 paid Sick days annually (Sick days carry over year to year) 10 - 25 Paid Vacation days annually (10 days beginning at year 1 employment) Personal, Sick and Vacation rates modified for 12-hour work schedules (As applicable) Employee Assistance Program and/or Mental Health resources For more information about our benefits, please follow this link: Benefits Information #J-18808-Ljbffr State of Illinois