(a) If necessary due to an absence, sickness, resignation, or death of a State’s Attorney, the circuit court for the county may appoint a competent individual to perform the duties of the State’s Attorney in conducting criminal or civil cases arising or pending in the circuit court until:
(1) the State’s Attorney is able to attend and act in person; or
(2) a new State’s Attorney is appointed and qualified.
(b) An individual appointed under subsection (a) of this section shall receive the same compensation as the State’s Attorney who is replaced.