Attorney I

Position: Attorney I

Position Number:    1863 Department:           Social Services Salary Range:         $67,686.97 - $104,927.64 Closing Date:          7/29/2022   Description of Work: Provides legal advice and advocacy to the DSS Agency in civil actions for the protection of children and disabled adults, and related work as apparent or assigned. Work is performed under the general direction of the Social Services Director. Includes writing briefs, preparing oral arguments, preparing and filing pleadings, gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, interpreting court orders, presenting cases in court, and defending cases on appeal. Prepares and presents cases in court related to child and adult protective service, including termination of parental rights. Prepares and drafts petitions, motions, appeals, and legal memoranda in preparation for court; conducts legal research; drafts court orders. Subpoenas witnesses, compiles discovery, and prepares witnesses for court. Interprets regulations and statutes. Advises and counsels agency staff on legal issues and responsibilities including providing legal updates to staff on statutory responsibilities and changes to the law. Assists in training DSS staff regarding relevant laws, local rules, policies, and procedures. Ensures that all legal mandates are met. Provides representation for the Agency in Court, Administrative Hearings, and before the clerk. Responds to inquiries from County and State agencies.   Recruitment Standards and Special Conditions: General knowledge of case, statutory and common law. General knowledge of judicial and quasi-judicial procedures. Ability to perform legal research. Ability to understand and interpret constitutional provisions, statutes, administrative regulations, and precedents. Ability to analyze facts, evidence, and legal instruments. Ability to express conclusions and arguments clearly and logically in oral and written form. Ability to maintain effective working relationships with persons contacted in the course of work.   Minimum Education and Experience: Graduation from a recognized law school preferably with some experience in law related to Social Services.   Necessary Special Qualifications: License to practice law in the State of North Carolina. Must possess and maintain a valid North Carolina driver’s license. Burke County is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, or disability in employment or the provision of services.