Child Services Attorney

Select how often (in days) to receive an alert:

Begin a fulfilling career with the State of Indiana by joining one of the largest employers in the state, offering a range of opportunities across 60+ agencies. At the state, you'll find competitive compensation, a robust benefits package and a commitment to work-life balance. Most importantly, you'll have the chance to make a real and measurable impact on the lives of Hoosiers across Indiana.

About the Department of Child Services:

Join a group of passionate, dedicated public servants to support one of Indiana’s most critical missions!

The Department of Child Services helps children who are victims of abuse or neglect and strengthens families through services that focus on family support and preservation. We pursue permanency for children and families through reunification, guardianship, and adoption. Our services also encompass foster care, child support, and transitional support for those adjusting to adulthood. Our culture is built upon our
MVP
foundation:

Mission
:
Champion Indiana’s future by protecting children and strengthening families with compassion and determination.
Vision
:
Every child in Indiana thrives in a safe, loving, forever home.
Purpose
:
Ignite hope. Cultivate joy.

Role Overview
:

The Child Services Attorney provides legal advice and legal services to the Central Office, County Offices, and staff for juvenile law related to Child Welfare, Child Support, and personnel matters. You will also assist and represent DCS in court and administrative issues. Specific areas of representation include Child In Need of Services (CHINS) cases, Termination of Parental Rights (TPR), Adoptions, Foster Care Licensing Actions, and other child safety issues.

You will work closely with Family Case Managers to prepare for court hearings and may serve as legal counsel for internal employment issues. This position provides immediate trial experience and does not encompass billable hours. The schedule for this position is Monday-Friday, 37.5 hours a week.

This position is in Rockport, Indiana, and will serve Spencer County, and surrounding counties as needed.

Indiana accepts the Uniform Bar Exam! Follow this link to learn about the Uniform Bar Exam and state jurisdictions.

The salary for this position traditionally starts at $75,010.00 but may be commensurate with education and work experience. Use our Compensation Calculator to view the total compensation package.

Responsibilities include:

• Advises Department of Child Services staff on various program and legal areas as assigned.
• Child Services Attorneys are responsible for managing all phases of discovery and leading courtroom litigation in support of child welfare cases.
• Drafts and reviews legal correspondence.
• Serves as a liaison to the Attorney General on litigation and tort claims matters.
• Drafts and reviews legislation and administrative rules.
• Performs legal research and writing assignments.
• Provides general legal support for the Office of General Counsel.
• Conducts legal training for Family Case Managers, attorneys, and others as requested.
• Litigates Children in Need of Services and Termination of Parental Rights cases in State Courts representing the agency in such actions.
• Handles administrative matters and hearings as assigned.
• Organizes and manages caseload in preparation for hearings and/or litigation.
• Generates appropriate pleadings, motions, discovery, and responses.
• Delegates to and provides support for any legal support staff.
• May be required to participate in committees, groups, or teams such as screen-out committees.

The job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of the employee's activities, duties, or responsibilities. Other duties,…