DCYF LEGAL COUNSEL

$65,166 - $88,608/Yr

State Of New Hampshire - Laconia, NH

Part-time - Mid Level

Laconia, NH

Executive, Legislative, and Other General Government Support

About the position

The DCYF Legal Counsel serves as the onsite legal counsel for the Division for Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) in Laconia, NH. This part-time position involves representing the Division in various legal matters, including child abuse and neglect cases, and providing legal guidance to DCYF staff. The role requires a strong understanding of federal and state laws related to child protection and the ability to navigate legal proceedings effectively.

Responsibilities

• Litigates on behalf of DCYF in child abuse/neglect cases, termination of parental rights proceedings, guardianship cases, and administrative appeals.
• Represents DCYF in court, in pre-hearings, and in administrative hearings including matters before the DHHS Administrative Appeals Unit.
• Assists DCYF Child Protective Service Workers (CPSW's) in the preparation of their cases for litigation in court and other proceedings.
• Confers with DHHS staff, outside attorneys, law enforcement, court personnel, and judges in matters concerning DCYF court cases, pleadings, and motions.
• Provides ongoing consultation and training to ensure that DCYF CPSW's adhere to best legal practice.
• Acts as liaison between DCYF staff and Court personnel to ensure timely and effective communication.
• Advises DCYF Supervisors and CPSW's regarding the interpretation and applicability of state and federal law, rules, regulations, DCYF policy, and court procedure.
• Assists DCYF staff with the development of policy and procedures.
• Keeps DCYF Legal Services and DCYF staff informed of litigation activity and associated administrative matters.
• Provides legal opinions on matters arising under the child protection statute and related statutes.

Requirements

• J.D. from a recognized law school.
• Four years' experience in active practice of law.
• Must hold a valid NH driver's license and/or have access to transportation for use in statewide travel.
• Active member of the New Hampshire Bar Association and in Good Standing.
• Knowledge of judicial procedures and rules; common, statutory, and constitutional laws of the state of New Hampshire; court and legal procedures; state and federal laws relating to Child Protection.
• Ability to prepare legal pleadings, briefs, and memoranda, perform legal research, render effective decisions, and deal tactfully with courts, law enforcement officials, DCYF staff, management, and the public.