Wabash County Commissioners voted unanimously yesterday to create a full-time public defender’s position. The move is being made after Judge William C. Hudson recommended the county go from a part-time public defender to a full-time role. He said provisions of the Illinois Safe-T Act that goes into effect January 1st puts more onus on the county having a public defender available on a more regular basis. The current public defender, James Lane, is retiring at the end of the month. Hudson said, by law, the new position will be paid 90% of the salary earned by the state’s attorney. Two-thirds of the salary is then reimbursed by the state leaving Wabash County’s share at around $47,000 counting benefits. Currently, the county’s share for a part-time position is $20,000 with no benefits.
As to possible candidates for the position, Hudson said that could prove tricky…
Hudson said now that commissioners have approved hiring a full-time public defender, the job listing will be sent throughout the second judicial circuit looking for applicants. Judges of the second circuit will ultimately appoint the public defender after Hudson makes a recommendation with input from county commissioners.