Description
The purpose of this position is to perform demanding professional work trying child protection cases, providing legal counsel to the Department of Family and Protective Services and performing other complex legal functions.
Job Responsibilities
Prepare cases for trial; locate and interview witnesses; issue subpoenas; gather and review evidence; review pertinent case law; participate in pre-trial preparations; argue cases before judge and juries
Maintain caseload; handle CPS dockets; draft motions and orders as needed for special issues as well as statutory hearings; participate in pre-adversary and pre-trial mediations and settlement conferences; participate in case-related meetings with clients
Staff cases with the Department of Family and Protective Services to determine appropriate course of action i.
e.
removal, court-ordered services, orders in aid of investigation, or other legal action; Review affidavits and petitions for filing
Carry an “on call” schedule which includes being available after hours to Department of Family and Protective Services clients
Attend multidisciplinary team staffings with law enforcement, advocacy center staff, and Department of Family and Protective Services clients
Participate in and help develop legal trainings; attend conferences on child welfare/child protection; maintain required CLE hours per the Texas Bar
Perform a variety of complex, independent duties in conjunction with court trials, including performing discovery, evaluating legal theories and principles, performing research, etc.
May include performing other complex legal functions in a specific, assigned legal area to include family violence, and emergency protective orders
Performs related work as assigned
Minimum Qualifications
Requires graduation from an accredited Law School and admitted to the practice of law in the State of Texas.