Child Welfare Staff Attorney (Must have valid Ca. bar lic. or pending bar results)

Please only apply if you have taken the California bar exam and are pending results or if you are a licensed attorney.

Compensation is based on experience

About Dependency Legal Services: Dependency Legal Services (DLS) is a non-profit law firm committed to serving children and parents involved in child abuse and neglect cases. We provide legal advocacy for families across six California counties, representing clients in high-volume, fast-paced dependency proceedings. Attorneys in this role will work directly with clients, providing in-court representation and advocating at all stages of juvenile dependency cases.

Position Overview: We are seeking an Associate Attorney to represent children and parents in dependency proceedings, including law and motion hearings, trials, and client interviews. This position offers extensive training, mentoring, and the opportunity to positively impact clients in crisis. We welcome candidates with 0-8 years of experience, including those awaiting bar results. Attorneys in this role must demonstrate a strong commitment to advocacy, multi-tasking, and working collaboratively in a team environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Represent clients in all phases of juvenile dependency proceedings (Welfare & Institutions Code § 300).
• Conduct client interviews, maintain frequent communication, and ensure timely responses to calls, texts, and emails.
• Prepare for and participate in hearings, trials, and legal proceedings, including legal research and writing.
• Collaborate with a multi-disciplinary team of social workers and senior attorneys.
• Advise clients about their rights and legal proceedings in a developmentally appropriate, trauma-informed manner.
• Work on ancillary legal issues, including criminal cases, housing, and government assistance qualifications.
• Engage in witness contact (lay and expert), subpoenas, and correspondence with parties involved in cases (relatives, opposing counsel, service providers, etc.).
• Handle contested and non-contested appearances, pre-court staffings, hearings, and trials.
• Make appellate filings, including writs and notices of appeal, and argue for necessary appellate relief.
• Maintain accurate records, data entry in JCATS, and regular meetings with DLS staff and Executive Team.
• Participate in ongoing training to build legal expertise, enhance courtroom skills, and deepen knowledge of dependency practice.
• Contribute to program development, public presentations, and community engagement.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Active member in good standing of the State Bar of California (or pending bar results).
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Commitment to serving low-income, diverse ethnic communities, and working with parents, children, and youth.
• Ability to work independently, self-motivate, and manage a full caseload.
• Valid driver’s license, auto insurance, and reliable access to transportation.

Knowledge & Abilities:

• Willingness to learn California statutory and constitutional law, including Welfare & Institutions Code, Evidence Code, Civil Procedure, and case law.
• Strong research skills and ability to analyze and apply legal principles quickly.
• Ability to work collaboratively with colleagues and external agencies.
• Excellent legal writing, oral communication, and litigation skills.
• Ability to manage multiple clients in a high-pressure, fast-paced environment.
• Interpersonal sensitivity, cultural competence, and the ability to engage clients from diverse backgrounds.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to meet deadlines.

Additional Information:

• This is NOT a remote position.
• Attorneys are expected to maintain court appearances and client meetings across various locations, including clients’ homes, schools, or placements.
• Attorneys must be proactive in maintaining case files, database systems (JCATS), and accurate reporting of mileage and time off.

To Apply: Please submit your resume and cover letter detailing your interest and qualifications for this role.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $90,000.00 - $133,456.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Relocation assistance
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Education:

• Doctorate (Preferred)

Experience:

• Legal counsel: 1 year (Preferred)

License/Certification:

• Bar (Preferred)

Ability to Relocate:

• Modesto, CA 95350: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $90,000 - $133,456