Staff Attorney - Central Region

About the role

The Division of Legal Services (DLS) is seeking three Staff Attorneys for the Central Regional Litigation Unit. These positions will primarily support the 18th, 19th, 25th, 26th, and Howell County in the 37th Judicial Circuit. Although these are the primary assignments, the Central Regional Litigation Unit provides representation for the Department across a larger region. The unit covers the 1st, 2nd, 9th, 13th, 14th, 18th, 19th, 25th, 26th, 37th (Howell County only), and 41st Judicial Circuits; attorneys may occasionally assist in these circuits as needed.

Responsibilities

• Manage a diverse caseload of varying issues and encounter meaningful opportunities to be an integral part of the community of juvenile court and child welfare attorneys in your area.
• Represent and provide legal advice to DSS and its divisions.
• Represent DSS in courts and administrative hearings in your assigned area.
• Defend child abuse and neglect findings made by DSS.
• Ensure the confidentiality of information maintained by DSS.
• Work closely with DSS and its divisions and provide legal advice related to DSS services and cases.

Requirements

• A juris doctor from an accredited institution and membership in good standing with the Missouri Bar.
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Experience in litigation and a background in juvenile, family, and administrative law are preferred but not required.

Qualifications

• Competent research and writing skills are required.
• Possession of a valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.

Skills

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.

Benefits

The State of Missouri offers an excellent benefits package that includes a defined pension plan, generous amounts of leave and holiday time, and eligibility for health insurance coverage.

Pay

Annual Starting Salary Range: $74,974.80 - $90,189.58 (Commensurate with experience.) Individual(s) selected for this position may receive a higher rate based on a pay differential (e.g. shift, or time-of-service pay).

Schedule

Scheduled Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (with flexibility to accommodate professional goals and workload).

Why you’ll love this position

If you are passionate about public service and want to make a difference in the lives of Missouri children and families by providing comprehensive legal counsel and support to the Department of Social Services (DSS), with a special focus on permanency including reunification with a parent, guardianship, termination of parental rights/adoption, and another planned permanent living arrangement, then this position is for you.

Contact Information

To learn more about this position, please contact Josh DeLeeuw at Joshua.DeLeeuw@dss.mo.gov. If you experience accessibility issues while applying, please contact Courtney Hall at Courtney.A.Hall@dss.mo.gov or call 573-526-0416.