Attorney I

Job Purpose Provides legal advice, advocacy and representation to the Alamance County Department of Social Services (DSS) and its various units on legal matters and represents DSS in court for adult protective services, child protective services, child support, personnel and various other areas.  Ensures all legal mandates are met.  Interprets federal and state statutes, regulations and policies and advises staff on how to comply with same.  Handles district court, administrative hearings, as well as appellate level work.  Assists in training DSS staff regarding relevant laws, local rules, policies, and procedures.  Is a representative of DSS on various committees and a liaison with community partners and stakeholders. This position is a fast paced, subject sensitive position that requires being on-call and working outside of typical business hours.  It requires the ability to learn quickly, multi task across multi diverse areas of the law and be self-directed. Salary will commensurate with experience and skill. Responsibilities

• Handles legal work for DSS, which may involve regular courtroom responsibilities and appearances.
• Files juvenile court petitions, motions and discovery as well as draft orders.
• Files incompetency petitions and all necessary documents as well as protective orders regarding disabled and/or elderly adults.
• Advises staff having legal problems on policy questions and operating problems.
• Performs related work as assigned.
• Performs legal research, drafts pleadings and organizes caseload.
• Assures cases comply with all federal and state laws, including but not limited to timeframes (as failure to do so can have significant negative impacts on the Department and individuals).
• Provides legal advice regarding all areas covered by DSS.
• Performs legal duties as assigned and requested by Supervising Attorney.

Skills & Abilities Education & Experience:

• Juris Doctorate degree required from an ABA accredited school of law.
• A minimum of five (3) years of directly relevant experience, including work for local government; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Human Services experience in abuse/neglect, dependency cases, children support, adult services and/or personnel issues, preferred.

Computer Skills:  Prior experience with Microsoft Windows suites of products. License/Credentials: Possession of a valid NC driver’s license. Licensed by the State Bar of North Carolina and in good standing as a licensed practicing attorney.