Description:
We are seeking a Dependency Attorney who will be representing juveniles who have been adjudicated dependent and who cannot, due to a conflict of interest, be represented by KidsVoice. This is an exciting opportunity for professionals looking to make a positive impact in their community and gain valuable experience in the public sector. This position is based within the Allegheny County Office of Conflict Counsel (OCC).The Office of Conflict Counsel is part of the Allegheny County Public Defender's office, which provides legal counsel when a client needs representation and is unable to afford it. All OCC cases are heard in the Juvenile Section of Allegheny County Family Division, which addresses cases involving dependency, delinquency, termination of parental rights, and other similar matters.
Who Are You?
You are a highly organized individual who thrives in a fast-paced environment. You are an excellent communicator, with a demonstrated interest in working with at-risk youth.
What Will You Be Responsible For?
- Representing juveniles in dependency hearings.
- Organizing and maintaining each case from shelter hearing to case closure.
- Writing appropriate motions, pleadings and findings of fact.
- Visiting juvenile clients in foster homes and other placements.
- Attending meetings regarding the client.
- Developing a fluency with the PACFile system and filing motions, pleadings, and other necessary court work via that system.
- Developing working relationships with clients, attorneys and other employees.
- Covering review hearings for the office's other dependency attorneys when needed.
- Attending relevant child welfare trainings and Continuing Legal Education courses.
What Background and Skills Does the Ideal Candidate Have?
- Excellent communication skills, both oral and written.
- Familiarity with dependency and Orphans' Court proceedings in Allegheny County.
- Flexibility to manage often-competing deadlines.
- Interest in working with juvenile clients and their caregivers.
- Candidate must have graduated from an ABA-accredited law school and be licensed to practice law in Pennsylvania.
