Child Services Attorney

Work for Indiana

Begin a fulfilling career with the State of Indiana by joining one of the largest employers in the state, offering a range of opportunities across 60+ agencies. At the state, you'll find competitive compensation, a robust benefits package and a commitment to work-life balance. Most importantly, you'll have the chance to make a real and measurable impact on the lives of Hoosiers across Indiana.

About the Department of Child Services :

Join a group of passionate, dedicated public servants to support one of Indiana’s most critical missions!

The Department of Child Services helps children who are victims of abuse or neglect and strengthens families through services that focus on family support and preservation. We pursue permanency for children and families through reunification, guardianship, and adoption. Our services also encompass foster care, child support, and transitional support for those adjusting to adulthood. Our culture is built upon our  MVP  foundation :

Mission : Champion Indiana’s future by protecting children and strengthening families with compassion and determination.

Vision : Every child in Indiana thrives in a safe, loving, forever home.

Purpose : Ignite hope. Cultivate joy.

Role Overview :

The Child Services Attorney provides legal advice and legal services to the Central Office, County Offices, and staff for juvenile law related to Child Welfare, Child Support, and personnel matters. You will also assist and represent DCS in court and administrative issues. Specific areas of representation include Child In Need of Services (CHINS) cases, Termination of Parental Rights (TPR), Adoptions, Foster Care Licensing Actions, and other child safety issues. You will work closely with Family Case Managers to prepare for court hearings and may serve as legal counsel for internal employment issues. This position provides immediate trial experience and does not encompass billable hours. The schedule for this position is Monday-Friday, hours a week.

We seek a detail-oriented attorney with strong time management skills and a desire to be a skilled litigator.

This position is in South Bend, Indiana, and will serve St. Joseph County, and surrounding counties as needed.

Salary :

This position traditionally starts at an annual salary of $75,010 but may be commensurate with education and job experience.

Use our to view the total compensation package.

A Day in the Life :

The essential functions of this role are :

• Advises Department of Child Services staff on various program and legal areas as assigned
• Drafts and reviews contracts and correspondence.
• Serves as a liaison to the Attorney General on litigation and tort claims matters.
• Drafts and reviews legislation and administrative rules.
• Performs legal research and writing assignments.
• Provides general legal support for the Office of General Counsel.
• Oversees contract process for local office attorneys.
• Conducts legal training for Family Case Managers, attorneys, and others as requested.
• Litigates Children in Need of Services and Termination of Parental Rights cases in State Courts representing the agency in such actions.
• Handles administrative matters and hearings as assigned.
• Organizes and manages caseload in preparation for hearings and / or litigation.
• Generates appropriate pleadings, motions, discovery, and responses.
• Delegates to and provides support for any legal support staff.
• Drafts appeals and appellate briefs.
• May be required to participate in committees, groups, or teams such as screen-out committees.
• May be required to serve as local counsel for the Indiana Office of Attorney General on assigned cases.

The job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of the employee's activities, duties, or responsibilities. Other duties, responsibilities, and activities may change or be assigned at any time.

This position is exempt from overtime compensation for additional work hours which may be required to complete essential functions or other assigned work. Exempt employees may work more than 75 hours in a pay period without additional compensation and must report a minimum of 75 hours per pay period of work hours and / or paid leave taken to receive their base biweekly salary.

What You'll Need for Success :

Supervisory Responsibilities / Direct Reports :

This role may be utilized in a supervisory capacity based on agency needs.

Benefits of Employment with the State of Indiana :

The State of Indiana offers a comprehensive benefits package for full-time employees that includes :

Equal Employment Opportunity :

The State of Indiana is an Equal

Opportunity Employer