Deputy Attorney General I-V - Child Protection Unit

State of Delaware; Dover (DE); On-site; USD 75,000 - 123,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dedicated Deputy Attorney General for the Family Division. This role focuses on representing the Division of Family Services in critical legal proceedings, ensuring the protection of vulnerable children in Delaware. The ideal candidate will navigate complex custody hearings and appeals, contributing significantly to the welfare of families in need. With a supportive team environment and opportunities for professional growth, this position offers a chance to make a meaningful impact in the community. If you possess strong legal skills and a passion for family law, this opportunity is perfect for you.

Benefits

Loan forgiveness eligibility

State healthcare plan

State pension plan

Over 4 weeks of vacation

3 weeks of paid sick leave

12 weeks of paid parental leave

Qualifications

• Ability to work independently and evaluate complex legal cases.
• Strong understanding of family law and court procedures.

Responsibilities

• Represent DFS in Dependency and Neglect Custody hearings.
• Draft and respond to pleadings in Family Court.

Skills

Verbal communication

Written communication

Legal research

Case evaluation

Education

Juris Doctor (JD)

Job description

Introduction

Delaware's Attorney General, the State's chief law enforcement officer, has a broad responsibility to combat crime, uphold civil rights, safeguard families, fight fraud, and protect consumers in the First State.

In meeting this mission, Attorney General Kathy Jennings is supported by teams of talented lawyers and staff in the Criminal, Civil, Family, Fraud and Consumer Protection, and Civil Rights and Public Trust Divisions. Each of the more than 500 staff who work in the Office of the Attorney General are dedicated to serving all Delawareans with integrity and passion.

Deputy Attorneys General, with critical support from criminal special investigators, victim service specialists, paraprofessionals, and administrative staff, prosecute criminal cases, enforce consumer laws, provide counsel to state agencies, ensure the public's access to open government, protect the abused, and much more.

Summary Statement

The Department of Justice is seeking a Deputy Attorney General for the Family Division, to serve in the Child Protection Unit in New Castle County. This Deputy Attorney General primarily represents the Division of Family Services (“DFS”) in their often complex Dependency and Neglect Custody hearings, Termination of Parental Rights hearings and Child Protection Registry Substantiation hearings before the Family Court. This Deputy Attorney General also represents DFS in Supreme Court appeals resulting from the various hearings. Deputy Attorneys General in the Unit attend hearings as well as draft, file and respond to pleadings in the Family Court. They also participate in case planning meetings with DFS and prepare appellate briefs. This work is imperative for the protection of Delaware’s abuse, dependent and neglected children.

Career Ladder

The Deputy Attorney General (DAG) career steps and salaries are based on experience, skills and the number of years barred.

Salary:

Pay Grade A12 DAG I Salary Range$75,684/min $83,252/max

Pay Grade A14 DAG II Salary Range $87,822/min $92,106/max

Pay Grade A16 DAG III Salary Range $96,997/min $99,129/max

Pay Grade A18 DAG IV Salary Range $106,626/min $108,737/max

Pay Grade A20 DAG V Salary Range $118,238/min $122,920/max

Job Requirements

A qualified candidate’s strengths will include the ability to work independently, evaluate cases, meet deadlines, anticipate legal issues, and research accurately and effectively. Candidates must have the ability to learn and apply relevant laws, rules of evidence, and court rules. Candidates must also have excellent verbal and written communication skills. Related experience in Family Court is preferred. The position will require some statewide travel to various meetings, trainings and hearings. Membership in the Delaware Bar is not required, but applicant must be eligible for limited admission pursuant to Supreme Court Rule 55.

Additional Posting Information

• This posting may close on or before 6/19/2025 upon filling the vacant position.
• Please be sure to upload a recent copy of your resume, as you complete the application process for this posting.
• This position is exempt from the State of Delaware Merit System.

Conditions of Hire

• Criminal background check: A satisfactory criminal background check is required as a condition of hire.
• Direct deposit of paychecks is required as a condition of hire.
• Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
• This position is part of a job classification that is represented by an exclusive bargaining representative (labor organization), as elected by employees in accordance with Title 29, Chapter 59 and Title 19, Chapters 13 and 16. While this position is now covered under a bargaining unit, a collective bargaining agreement is currently under negotiation, and terms and conditions of employment may be subject to change upon its ratification.

Benefits

Department of Justice Benefits Include:

• May be eligible Loan forgiveness (State and Federal).
• State of Delaware healthcare plan.
• State of Delaware pension plan.
• Over 4 weeks of vacation per year.
• 3 weeks of paid sick leave per year.
• 12 weeks of paid parental leave.

To learn more about the comprehensive benefit package please visit our website at https://dhr.delaware.gov/benefits/

Accommodations

Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities in all phases of the application and employment process. To request an auxiliary aid or service please call [phone]. TDD users should call the Delaware Relay Service Number 1-800-232-5460 for assistance.

The State of Delaware is an Equal Opportunity employer and values a diverse workforce. We strongly encourage and seek out a workforce representative of Delaware including race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression.