Child Protection Attorney

State of Montana • Helena, MT

2d

About The Position

The Child Protection Attorney works in the Montana Department of Justice’s State’s Attorney’s Office, assisting county attorneys’ offices statewide with child abuse and neglect matters. The position independently handles all phases of civil cases—simple and complex—in district courts, including assessing facts, conducting legal research and writing, preparing legal documents, and presenting testimony and argument. The attorney also provides training to county attorneys, Montana Department of Health and Human Services Child and Family Services employees, and other stakeholders in dependency and neglect cases. The position collaborates with a team of attorneys and support staff on cases, projects, and training.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor degree.
• At least two years of specialized law and litigation experience.
• Admission to and maintenance of licensure from the State Bar of Montana.
• Applicants licensed in another state must be able to become licensed to practice law in Montana within a reasonable time. Attorneys with five years of practice in another state and in good standing are eligible for admission on motion.
• Other combinations of education and experience may be considered case by case.
• Applicants must submit a résumé, cover letter, and legal writing sample of 5,000 words or less, prepared within the prior five years.
• Successful applicants are subject to criminal history fingerprint/name-based and driving history checks.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with case prosecution and/or representing the State, parents, or a child in Dependency and Neglect cases.

Responsibilities

• Assist county attorneys’ offices across Montana with child abuse and neglect matters.
• Independently handle all phases of simple and complex civil child abuse and neglect cases in district courts.
• Assess case facts; conduct legal research and writing; prepare legal documents; and present testimony and argument.
• Provide training to county attorneys, Child and Family Services employees, and other dependency and neglect stakeholders.
• Work with attorneys and support staff on cases, projects, and training.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Retirement plans
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
• Pre-tax Flexible Spending Accounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• State employment may qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree