Description:
Position Description: This position requires substantial family law litigation experience. The Senior Family Law Attorney will provide comprehensive legal representation to clients in complex family law matters including dissolution of marriage, paternity, child support, time-sharing, modification, domestic violence injunctions, and related proceedings, managing their own caseload. This position will also mentor less experienced LAS staff attorneys in family law matters, participate in community legal education and outreach, and assist the Family Law Director in staff management, as necessary.The attorney will assist pro bono attorneys in their representation of LAS family law clients, including fielding questions, conducting case consults, and pleadings review. Occasionally represents LAS at local bar and community functions.
Responsibilities:
- Supervise and mentor junior attorneys and legal assistants on family law matters
- Occasionally conduct family law client intake
- Provide full representation to clients in complex family law cases including trial preparation, motion practice, discovery, and court appearances
- Conduct client interviews, legal research, and factual investigations
- Develop legal strategies and prepare pleadings, motions, and other court documents
- Represent clients in depositions, emergency and regular hearings, trials, and administrative hearings
- Participate in settlement conferences and mediation
- Maintain accurate and complete case files and documentation
- Engage in community outreach and education activities, speaking with community groups, agency staff, and potential clients
- Assist pro bono attorneys in the representation of eligible clients
- Collaborate with community partners to ensure victims' safety and stability
- Work with other departments to address clients' comprehensive legal needs
- Stay current on changes in family law and related areas of practice
- Participate in continuing legal education and professional development
- Help develop best practices and resources for family law practice
- Participate in internal committees, work groups and other efforts to promote Legal Aid Society's public interest mission
Skills or Qualifications:
- Juris Doctor degree from an American Bar Association accredited institution
- Valid Florida Bar license in good standing
- Substantial experience with family law cases, including litigation. While 10 years- plus of litigation experience in family law is not required, it is preferred
- Strong understanding of Florida family law statutes, procedures, and local rules
- Experience with domestic violence cases and trauma-informed legal practice
- Excellent written and oral communication skills
- Superior research, analytical, and problem-solving abilities
- Proficiency in case management software and Microsoft Office suite
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a teamwork setting
- Cultural competency and ability to work with diverse populations
- Good judgment; strong organizational capability
- Ability to learn quickly and to work hard, independently, and under pressure
- Ability to handle contested hearings
- A desire to serve in public interest law mandatory
- Spanish, Portuguese, or Creole language skills strongly preferred but not required
- Must provide own transportation