Divisional Deputy City Solicitor - Child Welfare Unit

Agency Description

The City of Philadelphia Law Department serves as general counsel to the entire City government, providing legal advice to all City officials, employees, departments, agencies, boards, and commissions. Its civil practice addresses public interest issues in business, health, safety, commerce, civil rights, taxation, and community development. The Department employs more than 290 attorneys and 130 professional staff to support seamless operations, reduce legal liability, and address threats to quality of life for Philadelphia taxpayers. The Child Welfare Unit (CWU) represents the City of Philadelphia Department of Human Services (DHS) in investigating child abuse and neglect and providing services to children and families. Attorneys in the CWU manage case files from start to finish with appropriate training and supervision.

About the Role

The City of Philadelphia Law Department seeks an experienced, licensed Pennsylvania attorney to supervise two teams of attorneys representing the Department of Human Services in two core Dependency Courtrooms of the Philadelphia Family Court. The Divisional Deputy City Solicitor will manage and oversee CWU staff in these courtrooms or any other court teams identified by CWU leadership.

Responsibilities

• Provide mentoring, training, and resources for direct reports and new hires to meet client and Department needs.
• Act as a stopgap when workforce or workflow issues threaten timely or effective representation.
• Advise the Chief Deputy on legal matters that impact the law or could improve efficiency.
• Consult DHS staff and social workers daily on difficult cases and legal remedies.
• Communicate regularly with all Child Welfare Unit staff and maintain an open‑door policy for concerns.
• Offer attorney training and mentoring opportunities.
• Foster and maintain a collegial, inclusive, and professional environment that values diversity.
• Participate in external efforts to raise the profile of the Unit and the Law Department.
• Appear on high‑profile cases and other matters as directed by CWU leadership.

Competencies, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, agency rules, and processes governing the Unit’s clients.
• Ability to analyze large amounts of information, determine relevant facts, propose viable solutions, and employ diplomacy in challenging situations.
• Ability to identify applicable laws and regulations for specific matters.
• Ability to supervise and inspire a team of attorneys and support clients on Juvenile Justice and Older Youth matters.
• Ability to train and mentor staff.
• Ability to foster and maintain a collegial, inclusive, and professional work environment.
• Strong written and oral communication skills for both legal and non‑legal audiences.
• Ability to educate clients on applicable legal requirements and policy positions.
• Excellent judgment, critical thinking, and strong analytical/problem‑solving skills.
• Commitment to diversity and respect for differences.
• Strong interpersonal skills, teamwork, and collaboration with colleagues and clients.

Qualifications

• Seven (7) or more years of legal experience in child welfare law, Dependency Court, Delinquency Court, or related areas.
• Strong understanding of DHS policy and organizational structure.
• Previous supervisory experience.
• Law degree from an ABA‑accredited law school.
• Member in good standing of the Pennsylvania Bar, or eligible for admission by reciprocity (Pa.B.A.R. 204).
• Continued employment of attorneys not admitted to Pennsylvania within six (6) months of hire is at the Department’s discretion.

Work Location & Onsite Expectations

This position is fully onsite. Employees are expected to report in person five (5) days per week, in accordance with City policy. Regular on‑site presence is an operational requirement of the role.

Who Thrives in This Role

Ideal candidates are adaptable, collaborative, comfortable making real‑time decisions, and able to manage competing priorities while maintaining a high standard of professionalism in a fast‑paced, in‑person environment.

Benefits

• Unlimited free public transportation year‑round through SEPTA’s Key Advantage program.
• Eight weeks of paid parental leave.
• Comprehensive health coverage for employees and eligible dependents.
• Wellness program eligibility for discounted medical plans.
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Generous retirement savings options.
• Eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness.
• Tuition discounts and scholarships (10%–40%) at partnered colleges and universities for employees, and in some cases spouses and dependents.

Pay

Salary Range: $121,875 to $147,534 – commensurate with education and experience.