Closing Date: 1st April, 2024
Description:
About the Work:This is highly responsible work providing leadership regarding the practice of law, legal counsel for the Guardian ad Litem, and representation for the children in a judicial circuit's Guardian ad Litem Office. The Managing Attorney assists the Guardian ad Litem Circuit Director in implementing policies and procedures in consultation with the Statewide Guardian ad Litem Office. Managing Attorneys are working supervisors responsible for monitoring/litigating the most complex and/or sensitive cases involving the representation of abused, abandoned, and neglected children. In addition to managing the legal practice, incumbents in this class will serve as administrative supervisors responsible for communicating with, motivating, training, and evaluating employees' performance; planning and directing their work; and recommending hiring, rewarding, or disciplining subordinate employees. The Managing Attorney works cooperatively with staff and volunteers to implement a strategy representing each child. The Managing Attorney must exercise discretion in dealing with confidential and extremely sensitive issues before the court.
The incumbent provides timely and accurate legal advice and representation on complex issues originating in the dependency court system. Incumbents in this class also serve as a liaison between the Guardian ad Litem Office, the community, and the courts. The Managing Attorney works with staff and volunteers to ensure they understand applicable legal issues and court procedures. Working relationships must be established with judges, the Department of Children and Families, community-based care lead agencies and other social service agencies, community organizations, local law enforcement, attorneys, and the public. Work involves contact with people in stressful situations and sensitive and confidential information. Work is performed under the day-to-day supervision of a Circuit Director. The practice of law is overseen by the Legal Regional Counsel.
About the Education and Training Requirements
Must possess a valid Florida driver license.
Graduation from an accredited law school, membership in The Florida Bar, and five years of progressively responsible experience in the practice of dependency law. Trial experience is essential. Supervisory experience is preferred. An exception for the required experience may be granted by the Executive Director or designee.
About the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Legal skills and knowledge of Ch. 39, F.S., sufficient to effectively represent children in legal proceedings. Admission to The Florida Bar in good standing. Skill in organizing resources and establishing priorities. Ability to organize, develop and deliver presentations. Knowledge of Guardian ad Litem Office policies and procedures, regulations, and the legal environment they operate. Knowledge of current and developing legal issues and trends in child welfare. Ability to apply principles and practices of effective supervision; plan, organize, prioritize, assign, and delegate work; evaluate staff performance.
