Lateral Family Defense Attorney

Responsibilities

Client-Centered Direct Representation:

• Provides zealous representation to clients facing abuse and neglect allegations in juvenile deprived proceedings, from initial show cause hearings through adjudication and/or termination trials.
• Engage in early advocacy for clients during child welfare investigations and family centered services agreements.
• Representation may also include guardianship matters under Title 10A or Title 30, protective order matters, or other related family law matters with practice leader approval.
• Advocate for client-centered decision-making in all matters, with a consistent focus on achieving client’s stated goals.

Holistic & Collaborative Representation

Collaborate with interdisciplinary defense team members – including client advocates, mitigation specialists, and investigators – to develop and implement comprehensive strategies addressing the legal, social service and governmental challenges faced by clients.

Collaborate with other attorneys on representation of a mutual client in multiple venues, including coordinating legal strategies, co-counseling appearances/hearings.

Develop and elevate standards of practice through innovative motions, arguments, and litigation strategies.

Commit to ongoing professional development and training to ensure excellent and zealous representation to our clients.

Additional Requirements

• To be eligible, applicants must have:
• Minimum 3 years of experience in the field of parent defense or a related field.
• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an American Bar Association accredited law school.
• Active law license in good standing with the Oklahoma Bar, or eligibility for admission within a defined timeframe based on role and practice requirements.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable access to a vehicle to attend court, client meetings, and community-based obligations.
• Comfort working in varied settings, including courts, offices, community locations, and remote environments as required by practice needs.
• Occasional evening and/or weekend availability as dictated by court schedules, client needs, and case demands.
• Absence of travel regularly within the Tulsa metropolitan area, with occasional in-state or out-of-state travel for court proceedings, training, or professional development.
• Proficiency with standard legal and office technology, including document drafting, case management systems, and electronic filing platforms.
• Commitment to SSR’s mission, vision, and values, including client-centered, trauma-informed, and equity-driven legal advocacy.

Skills

• Judgment, Integrity & Professional Discretion
• Curious Self-Starter
• Strong Legal Analysis & Critical Thinking
• Organization and Time Management
• Adaptability & Professional Responsiveness
• Cultural Awareness & Compassionate Client Engagement
• Persistence & Follow-Through
• Clear & Effective Written & Verbal Communication
• Collaboration & Team Orientation

Compensation

Includes a salary commensurate with experience, comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life insurance, FSA benefits, and 401(k) plan with 4% employer contribution. We also offer generous PTO and a supportive supervision structure designed to support sustainability in this work.

How to Apply

To apply, please see link below. Combine cover letter and resume in one PDF document, and upload when prompted for resume. Applications without a cover letter will not be considered.

Please contact careers@stillsherises.org with any questions regarding the position.

This position will remain open until filled. Priority consideration will be given to applications received by March 31, 2026.

Still She Rises is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, committed to inclusive hiring, and dedicated to diversity in our work and staff. We strongly encourage candidates of all identities, experiences, orientations, and communities to apply.