Closing Date: 4th June, 2024
Description:
The State of New Hampshire, Department of Health and Human Services, Division for Children, Youth, & Families has a part time vacancy for DCYF Legal Counsel.Summary:
Serves as the onsite legal counsel for the Division for Children, Youth and Families (DCYF) in a District Office Child Protective Service Unit. Represents the Division and develops legal strategies, interprets and applies Federal and state statutes, rules, case law, precedent, etc. in New Hampshire District, Family and Probate Courts, administrative hearings, and other legal forums. Reports to Regional Supervisor, (DCYF) Legal Services.
Responsibilities:
- Litigates on behalf of DCYF in child abuse/neglect cases, termination of parental rights proceedings, guardianship cases, and administrative appeals
- Represents DCYF in court, in pre-hearings and in administrative hearings including matters before the DHHS Administrative Appeals Unit, and other legal venues.
- Assists DCYF Child Protective Service Workers (CPSW's) in the preparation of their cases for litigation in court and other proceedings.
- Confers with DHHS staff, outside attorneys, law enforcement, court personnel and judges in matters concerning DCYF court cases, pleadings and motions.
- Provides ongoing consultation and training to ensure that DCYF CPSW's adhere to best legal practice.
- Acts as liaison between DCYF staff and Court personnel to ensure timely and effective communication.
- Advises DCYF Supervisors and CPSW's regarding the interpretation and applicability of state and federal law, rules, regulations, DCYF policy and court procedure.
- Assists DCYF staff with the development of policy and procedures.
- Keeps DCYF Legal Services and DCYF staff informed of litigation activity and associated administrative matters. Provides legal opinions on matters arising under the child protection statute and related statutes.
Minimum Qualifications:
Education: J.D. from a recognized law school.
Experience: Four years' experience in active practice of law.
License/Certification: Must hold a valid NH driver's license and/or have access to transportation for use in statewide travel.
Special Qualifications: Must be an active member of the New Hampshire Bar Association and in Good Standing. Must possess a knowledge of: judicial procedures and rules; common, statutory and constitutional laws of the state of New Hampshire; court and legal procedures; state and federal laws relating to Child Protection. Must have the demonstrated ability to prepare legal pleadings, briefs and memoranda, perform legal research, render effective decisions and deal tactfully with the courts, law enforcement officials, DCYF staff and management as well as the public.