Legal CPS Regional Attorney III
About The Position
The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) works with families and communities to help keep children and vulnerable adults safe through investigations, services, and referrals. The Legal CPS Regional Attorney III provides direct court representation for CPS and offers expertise, guidance, and instruction in family law, civil litigation, and agency policy. The attorney monitors DFPS court cases in the assigned area and takes appropriate measures to help ensure timely and appropriate resolutions. The role routinely interacts with agency staff and attorneys, county and district attorneys, opposing counsel, judges, clients, witnesses, community professionals, expert witnesses, and the public. This is a full-time, regular, exempt position based in Austin, Texas. The position is not eligible for telework and may require travel up to 35%.
Requirements
- Graduated from an accredited law school.
- Licensed to practice law in Texas and in good standing with the State Bar of Texas.
- Work experience in family law or child welfare law.
- Knowledge of family law and civil practice.
- Ability to synthesize law, administrative rules, agency policies and goals, and best-practice recommendations to reach appropriate interpretations.
- Ability to convey complex legal ideas and instructions clearly to staff.
- Ability to develop and maintain professional working relationships with agency staff and the legal community.
Responsibilities
- Advise staff on legal matters and interpret laws, regulations, and policies.
- Advise county and district attorneys on legal matters.
- Represent the agency in court cases.
- Prepare cases for trial and handle trials in most cases.
- Provide legal training to agency staff and the legal community.
- Coordinate specialized legal efforts with appropriate experts.
- Prepare or supervise the preparation of legal opinions, briefs, pleadings, and reports.
- Perform other duties as assigned and required to maintain unit operations.
- Assist in formulating, establishing, and coordinating office systems.
- Promote, monitor, and ensure respect for cultural diversity.
- Attend work regularly in accordance with agency leave policy.
Benefits
- Health insurance fully paid for the employee and 50% paid for eligible family members.
- Retirement plans with lifetime monthly payments after five years of state service, plus 401(k) and 457 savings plans.
- Paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave.
- Optional dental, vision, and life insurance.
- Flexible spending accounts for health and dependent care.
- Employee discounts, including on gym memberships, electronics, and entertainment.
- Potential eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
