ASSOCIATE JUDGE

About the role

The Associate Probate Judge performs advanced judicial and legal duties in the Probate Court, including presiding over hearings, managing estates, and overseeing conservatorships and guardianships.

Responsibilities

• Makes command decisions in the absence of the Probate Judge.
• Presides over and makes judicial decisions regarding Probate Court cases.
• Holds Rule to Show Cause hearings for mental health and chemical dependency matters.
• Works closely with various facilities and organizations to manage patient and client cases.
• Drafts, reviews, and executes orders for decisions rendered in hearings.
• Reviews and approves Family Settlement Agreements.
• Prepares written guides for attorneys and laypersons.
• Serves as a legal guide for attorneys and assists in preparing court filings.
• Supervises assigned staff and reviews their work for completeness and accuracy.
• Manages the commitment process during emergencies, including remote hearings and patient transport.
• Speaks at civic meetings and provides technical guidance to office staff.

Requirements

Requires a Juris Doctorate from an ABA-accredited law school with at least five years of related work experience in Probate Court, mental health, conservatorships, and trusts.

Qualifications

• Undergraduate degree plus Juris Doctorate.
• Licensed Member of the South Carolina Bar Association or similar state bar.
• Current on Continuing Legal Education (CLE).
• Notary Certification.

SkillsAdvanced legal research and assistance.

Effective communication with attorneys, clients, and community members.

Ability to make critical decisions under pressure.

Strong organizational and administrative skills.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health and dental insurance.
• Generous annual and sick leave policies.
• A solid and secure retirement system.

Pay

TBD

Schedule

Full-time, 40 hours per week, with flexibility for evening, weekend, and holiday work during emergencies.