Regional Counsel, Child Welfare – Northeast

State of Tennessee; Sullivan (IN); On-site; USD 104,000 - 136,000; Full time

Job summary

Department of Children’s Services in Johnson City/Kingsport, TN seeks an Associate Counsel - Regional Legal Counsel for the Northeast region. The role handles Juvenile and Circuit Court matters, provides legal guidance to DCS staff, and ensures actions align with state statutes and case law regarding child custody and guardianship.

The position requires an active Tennessee law license and offers a chance to contribute to the safety and well-being of children across multiple counties, with

Qualifications

• Active License to practice law in Tennessee is required.
• Preferred Experience: 3+ years of relevant legal experience.

Responsibilities

• Represent the Department of Children's Services in various Judicial proceedings, primarily in Juvenile and Circuit Court in an Assigned area, using sound legal judgment and experience to obtain rulings favorable to our positions and in the best interest of children.
• Addressing safety, treatment needs and individual children's educational issues for children in the care or custody of the State.
• Provide legal consultation and support to DCS staff preparing them for pending litigation and advising them concerning emergency and non-emergency factual situations to determine if legal action is warranted.
• Travel between the various county offices and courts to attend conferences with staff and judicial hearings. Meet with witnesses, issue subpoenas, review documents and other evidence, such as photographs or audio tapes.
• Review the records, including notes of interviews to prepare questions for court.
• Where necessary, research various medical conditions in order to question expert witnesses for the State and for the defense.
• Draft legal pleadings in order to advance the goals of our department guided by applicable statutes and case law decisions.
• Review legal referrals from DCS staff regarding child custody, guardianship, and adoption to determine what legal action is appropriate and necessary.
• Conduct periodic training to update DCS staff to on changes in the law and policy regarding investigation and litigation of child custody and guardianship cases. Assure accurate and detailed legal records and files are maintained in safe, secure facilities containing the latest documentation available.

Job description

Department of Children’s Services in Johnson City/Kingsport, TN seeks an Associate Counsel - Regional Legal Counsel for the Northeast region. The role handles Juvenile and Circuit Court matters, provides legal guidance to DCS staff, and ensures actions align with state statutes and case law regarding child custody and guardianship.

The position requires an active Tennessee law license and offers a chance to contribute to the safety and well-being of children across multiple counties, with