Closing Date: 23rd May, 2024

Description:

The Adult Representation Services (ARS) department is seeking an Associate Attorney or Attorney to represent clients in proceedings in one of our core practice areas, such as parents in child protection cases, tenants in evictions proceedings, non-custodial parents in child support contempt proceedings, persons subject to guardianship, and individuals facing civil commitment. This posting may be used to fill multiple positions; interested applicants with knowledge or interest in either of these practice areas are strongly encouraged to apply.

ARS provides high-quality, holistic representation to clients experiencing poverty in certain civil matters where appointment of counsel is necessary to protect a fundamental right or to further the county's mission of reducing disparities and promoting the stability of residents. Attorneys work alongside paralegals and social service staff to support the department's mission of an equitable defense.

Current A Government Entity employees who refer a candidate hired into an open competitive position may be eligible for a $500 referral bonus. For more information visit the employee referral program page. (https://www.hennepin.us/jobs/employee-referral-program)

About the position type:

This is a full-time, benefit earning position.
This position is internally classified as an Attorney or Attorney, Associate.
Click here to view the job classification specification for Attorney.
Click here to view the job classification specification for Attorney, Associate.

In the Associate Attorney position, you will:

Litigate cases in court and negotiate resolutions when appropriate.
Interview clients and prospective witnesses or direct the investigations and interviews conducted by investigative staff.
Coordinate resources for clients and families or direct the coordination of resources with the legal staff.
Conduct or direct legal research which includes preparing or overseeing the drafting of briefs, memoranda, pleadings, and other legal papers; retaining case records and files; and allocating resources to effectively manage a caseload consistent with office and divisional objectives.
Participate in community outreach and education.

In the Attorney position, you will:

Litigate complex cases in court, negotiating and facilitating complex case resolutions.
Interview clients and prospective witnesses or direct the investigations and interviews conducted by investigative staff.
Coordinate resources for clients and families or direct the coordination of resources with the legal staff.
Conduct or direct legal research which includes preparing or overseeing the drafting of briefs, memoranda, pleadings, and other legal papers; retaining case records and files; and allocating resources to effectively manage a caseload consistent with office and divisional objectives.
Participate in community outreach and education.
Mentor less-experienced staff in managing complex litigation.

Need to have:
For hire as an Associate Attorney:

Admission to the Bar of the state of Minnesota at the time of application submission.

For hire as an Attorney:
Admission to the Bar of the state of Minnesota at the time of application submission and two or more years of experience as a practicing attorney.

Nice to Have:

Effective litigation skills.
Experience representing clients on court appointed cases.
Experience in public law.
Knowledge of

Local laws and ordinances, established precedents, and legal reference sources.
The principles, methods, and practices of legal research and investigation.
Judicial procedures and the rules of evidence.
Pleading and practicing effective presentation of court cases.

Strong communication and interpersonal skills; persuasive public speaking ability.
Ability to

Independently try cases.
Utilize computers and other technology to manage your work.