Full-Time (1.0 FTE) FC Guardians ad Litem- South Metro 1st Judicial District

MN Guardian ad Litem Board; Shakopee (MN); Remote; USD 10,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dedicated Guardian ad Litem to represent the best interests of children in family court. This full-time position requires a compassionate advocate to navigate complex family matters, ensuring that children's voices are heard in legal proceedings. The role involves significant travel within the 1st Judicial District, where you will observe, document, and present findings in court. Join a meaningful mission to support vulnerable children and make a lasting impact in their lives while enjoying flexible work arrangements and state benefits.

Benefits

11 paid holidays plus 2 floating holidays

State insurance and retirement benefits

Flexibility and public service opportunities

Qualifications

• Understanding of family law and child development.
• Ability to interact professionally with court personnel and families.

Responsibilities

• Advocating for children in family court proceedings.
• Compiling findings and recommendations for court reports.
• Attending court hearings to present recommendations.

Skills

Effective communication

Observation

Time management

Accurate record-keeping

Basic computer skills

Typing proficiency

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field

Job description

Position Description

About Us

The Program seeks advocates who represent the best interests of abused and neglected children in court. Our Guardians ad Litem are independent from the court and child welfare system, appointed by a judge to represent a child's best interests in court proceedings.

Since its inception, the Minnesota Guardian ad Litem (GAL) Program has committed to giving abused and neglected children a strong voice in the court system. It is a state agency providing services throughout Minnesota.

Position Description

Family Court Guardian ad Litem - South Metro - 1st Judicial District
We are seeking a full-time (1.0 FTE), non-exempt Guardian ad Litem to advocate for children in family court proceedings. Work is supervised by a Division Coordinator and managed by the Family Court Division Manager.

Introduction:
This role involves advocating on complex family matters where children may have experienced abuse or neglect, or are involved in high-conflict custody disputes. Candidates must reside near the 1st Judicial District. This is a home-based position serving counties in and around the district, requiring travel. Responsibilities adhere to Minnesota Rules of Practice, Guardian ad Litem procedures, Juvenile Protection Rules, and other relevant laws and policies.

Work involves:

• Observing children in various settings to document interactions.


• Compiling accurate findings and recommendations for court reports.


• Attending court hearings to present recommendations or testify.

Primary Responsibilities:
(Additional details provided upon hire)

• Reviewing case files and relevant documents.


• Observing and interviewing involved parties, including children, using appropriate techniques.


• Considering cultural backgrounds and identifying appropriate resources.


• Organizing case notes and maintaining confidentiality.


• Preparing reports and documentation for court.


• Coordinating legal representation when necessary.


• Participating in meetings and continuing education.


• Mentoring new Guardians ad Litem if applicable.

Note: Exposure to secondary trauma is anticipated due to work with victims and perpetrators of domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, and neglect.

Qualifications

Knowledge:
Understanding of family law, child development, and issues such as custody disputes, abuse, domestic violence, and mental health.

Abilities:
Professional interaction with court personnel, attorneys, children, and families; independent critical thinking; maintaining respectful relationships; managing crisis situations; receptiveness to feedback; working with interpreters.

Skills:
Effective communication, observation, time management, accurate record-keeping, basic computer skills, and typing proficiency.

Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field or equivalent experience; valid driver’s license; residence near the service area; pass background checks.

Preferred Qualifications:
Experience as a Guardian ad Litem, completion of GAL pre-service orientation, and understanding of GAL responsibilities are desirable.

The Location:
Remote work with significant travel required within the 1st Judicial District.

The Benefits:

• 11 paid holidays plus 2 floating holidays


• State insurance and retirement benefits


• Flexibility and public service opportunities

Interested?

This full-time position offers a starting rate of $23.12/hr. Apply online at: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/guardianadlitem. Deadline: Monday, September 25, 2023, at 4:30 p.m. (allow 45 minutes to complete application). This position is posted for internal and external applicants. Only current AFSCME program employees are eligible to bid.

The Guardian ad Litem Program is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity. We encourage applications from diverse backgrounds. All employment decisions are made without discrimination. For accommodations or questions, contact [e-mail].