Description:
ChildLaw Services, Inc. is seeking a motivated full-time attorney to join our legal team. We are a non-profit law firm that exclusively represents children in West Virginia, mainly through court-appointed work. Our areas of practice include but are not limited to abuse and neglect, juvenile delinquency, juvenile status offense, guardianship, adoption, and felony victim representation. This position is ideal for a licensed attorney looking to engage in rewarding work with vulnerable populations. The ideal candidate should enjoy interacting and working with children and working in a collaborative environment. We are innovative and our goal is to give a voice to children. We also provide empowering programming to children in the communities we serve.The position will be based out of Charleston, West Virginia. The Staff Attorney will primarily practice in Kanawha and Boone counties.
The ideal candidate will have excellent research and writing skills, a strong understanding of the law, and a commitment to providing exceptional service to our clients in and out of court.
Responsibilities:
- Draft legal documents such as briefs, pleadings, Guardian ad litem Reports memoranda, and court orders.
- Conduct legal research and provide advice on legal matters
- Conduct independent investigations and make recommendations to the court
- Regularly meet with clients and interview witnesses—some travel required
- Represent clients in court proceedings, hearings, MDT meetings, school meetings, etc.
- Advise clients on the legal implications of their decisions
- Analyze case law and interpret statutes and regulations.
- Negotiate settlements with opposing counsel.
- Maintain client confidentiality
- Collaborate with work colleagues, MDT members, and community partners
Skills:
- Strong administrative skills including organization, time management, office technology, and case management software
- Strong written and oral communication skills
- Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment
- Proficient in legal research
- Familiarity with family law and juvenile law
- Ability or willingness to work with children of all ages up to the age of 21
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Ability to litigate cases in court
Requirements:
- Must love working with children
- Must have a valid driver's license and reliable transportation
- Must have J.D. and be admitted to practice law in WV and in good standing or must be eligible for admission to practice in another state or must be eligible for admission to the West Virginia Bar under West Virginia Supreme Court Rule 9 if admitted to practice in another state.