3 (Calcasieu-CW)

State of Louisiana•Lake Charles, LA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

This administrative position serves as a legal counsel for the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS)/Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS)/Child Welfare Services (CWS) within one of nine regions throughout the State of Louisiana, specializing in the area of juvenile and family law, social services law and programs. The incumbent will be responsible for representing the agency in all phases of Child Welfare proceedings, including filing of petitions to terminate parental rights, filing appeals/writs related to Child Welfare practice, and advising staff on policy and law. Regular appearances in court are a routine part of the responsibilities of this job.

Requirements

Possession of a current Louisiana license to practice law.

Responsibilities

Representing the agency in all phases of Child Welfare proceedings.
Filing petitions to terminate parental rights.
Filing appeals/writs related to Child Welfare practice.
Advising staff on policy and law.
Assisting other legal sections with the preparation and litigation of numerous trials, appeals and other matters assigned that are located within the assigned regional area.
Serving as counsel or assisting in the defense of the agency or its employees in suits seeking money damages or contempt orders against DCFS, agency officials, and personnel.
Handling administrative and judicial proceedings for child protection, foster care, family services, Family in Need of Services cases, adoption services and home development and other social services programs.
Assisting DCFS staff with child safety and welfare laws, including investigations of caretakers, day care centers, and family child day care homes.
Providing consultation, recommendations, and representation to the regional administrator and other DCFS staff within assigned regions.
Recommending and participating in efforts to update and revise provisions in state and federal law in the areas of child welfare.