Social Services Staff Attorney

Work Type
Other

Salary
$88,045.00 - $149,677.00 Annually

Closing Date
August 21, 2023
Posted July 21, 2023


Agency Name
Brunswick County

Work County
Brunswick

Job Location
30 Government Center Drive
Bolivia
North Carolina
28422
Job Description

About Us Brunswick County is a vibrant coastal community located in southeastern North Carolina with approximately 47 miles of idyllic beaches and an abundance of quaint countryside. While consistently ranked one of the fastest-growing counties in North Carolina, Brunswick County is steeped in history and hospitality, and both residents and visitors enjoy a laidback atmosphere, close-knit community, and plenty of coastal charm. Careers At Brunswick County we are committed to preserving our resources and enhancing the lives of our community through exceptional service. Join our team of talented staff and embark on a career where you will make a difference in the lives of those we serve. Our employees are our biggest asset, and we offer competitive wages, a comprehensive benefits package, and opportunities for advancement.
About this Opportunity
The Social Services Staff Attorney performs a wide range of legal work for the Department of Social Services, including legal representation and guidance, with an emphasis on Child Welfare Law, Juvenile Court, Adult Services, and Child Support.  Work is performed independently in a number of areas of the law that have significant scope and complexity.  Must be able to interpret various North Carolina General Statutes, North Carolina Child Support Guidelines, law(s) affecting incompetent persons and guardianship, and the North Carolina Rules of Appellate Procedure and apply legal principles appropriately. Responsibilities include preparing for and conducting courtroom litigation and preparing legal opinions on cases as they relate to the program areas outlined above.  Work includes performing research, interviewing, and presenting cases in court; drafting court orders; preparing legal documents; preparing appellate briefs and representing the Department at the Court of Appeals and Supreme Court and participating in required pretrial conferences; assisting staff in developing protocols and procedures; providing consultation and training to Social Services staff. Responsibilities also include answering questions concerning the interpretation and application of laws, statutes, rules, policies and ordinances.   Must be able to work independently with the courts, the Attorney General’s office, and other professionals to ensure that legal matters for the Department of Social Services and the Department’s clients are resolved in the most effective and efficient manner. Job Responsibilities also include:
  • Provide legal representation and advocacy to child welfare social workers including trials for non-secure custody, adjudication, disposition, and review, permanency planning review, post-TPR review and show cause hearings.
  • Consult with the social workers in the filing of petitions, preparing the cases for trial, and in the follow-up hearings required for establishing permanency.
  • Provide legal assistance to Adult Protective Services for Protective Orders in district court and guardianship matters before the Clerk of Court.
  • Provide legal assistance to Child Support in district court.
Position supervises and directs the work of the Department of Social Services paralegal staff. Reports directly to the Social Services Director.Education and Experience
Graduation from an accredited school of law with membership in good standing in the North Carolina State Bar as a licensed practicing attorney with five years of experience in the practice of law, including work for local government; or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required skills, knowledge, and abilities.  Child Welfare experience preferred. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Knowledge of child welfare policies and legal mandates
  • Knowledge of case, statutory, common law and regulations
  • Knowledge of adult service and guardianship policies and legal mandates.
  • Knowledge of child support establishment and enforcement legal procedures
  • Knowledge of judicial procedures and Rules of Evidence
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
  • Ability to prepare complex cases for trial
  • Ability to  litigate in district and superior courts
  • Ability to  prepare appeals briefs and argue cases in the North Carolina Court of Appeals and the North Carolina Supreme Court
  • Ability to Communicate clearly and professionally (written and oral), to handle adversarial trials, and to effectively maintain a large case load.
  • Organizational skills
  • Critical thinking skills
Physical Requirements
Must be physically able to operate a variety of office equipment. Must be able to exert a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects. Physical demand requirements are in excess of those for Sedentary Work. Light Work usually requires walking or standing to a significant degree. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Additional Information Brunswick County provides equal opportunity in employment for all qualified persons regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by the law. Brunswick County is required by law to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired. Brunswick County participates in E-Verify to determine employment eligibility to work in the United States. All positions with Brunswick County require a valid Driver's License and candidate must be current on Brunswick County taxes. A background check and drug screening will be conducted with a contingent offer of any position.    
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