Research Attorney - Worcester Probate & Family Court

Commonwealth of Massachusetts • Worcester, MA

2d • $105,548 - $155,561 • Hybrid

About The Position

The Probate and Family Court Department's mission is to deliver timely justice to the public by providing equal access to a fair, equitable and efficient forum to resolve family and probate legal matters and to assist and protect all individuals, families and children in an impartial and respectful manner. The Probate and Family Court has jurisdiction over family-related matters such as divorce, paternity, child support, custody, parenting time, adoption, termination of parental rights, and abuse prevention. In addition to equity jurisdiction, the Probate and Family Court also has jurisdiction over wills, estates, trusts, guardianships, conservatorships, and changes of name. This position conducts legal research and drafts memoranda, decisions, and orders for assigned judge(s), and consults with judge(s) on legal issues. May oversee and train law clerks and judicial interns. Works under the direction of the First Justice and/or their designee.

Requirements

• Law Degree from an accredited college or university
• One (1) year of related work experience
• Admission to and good standing with Massachusetts Bar
• Proficiency in legal research, preparing legal memoranda, decisions, and other documents.
• Accurately identifies and addresses legal issues within assigned matters.
• Works with others cooperatively, demonstrating a willingness to be a team player, and contributing to a work environment that focuses on shared departmental goals.
• Modern office equipment and technology including computers and applicable software
• Legal research services and databases
• Case law, statutory law, rules, and regulations
• Law and procedure applicable to assigned Court Department
• Legal terminology
• Organization and time management
• Attention to detail
• Proofreading
• Critical thinking
• Research
• Analysis
• Legal Writing
• Establish effective working relationships with others
• Prepare clear and accurate work product
• Edit the work product of other employees
• Maintain confidentiality of information
• Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing
• Work independently and follow oral and written instructions
• Perform legal research and analysis
• Analyze problems and develop feasible solutions

Nice To Haves

• Applicants selected for interviews will be required to submit a writing sample.

Responsibilities

• Researches and analyzes case law, statutes, rules, regulations, and other relevant law. Drafts decisions and research memoranda.
• Performs legal research for judges regarding issues that arise during trials and other court proceedings.
• Assists judges, fellow research attorneys, and law clerks with proofreading, editing, and legal interpretation of documents.
• Advises judges on legal issues.
• Oversees the work of and trains law clerks and judicial interns.
• Assists in preparing materials for committees, meetings, and judicial conferences.
• Performs other related duties as required.

Benefits

• This position is designated as a Union position. All new hires must start at the entry level rate for this role per the collective bargaining agreement/MOA with OPEIU, Local 6. Pay may advance within the salary band according to the CBA/MOU.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level