Staff Attorney

DEPENDENCY LEGAL SERVICES; Modesto (CA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

DEPENDENCY LEGAL SERVICES in Modesto, CA is seeking a Staff Attorney to provide legal representation and advocacy in dependency and related matters, including court appearances, motion practice, and case management.

You will meet with clients, assess issues, develop case strategies, prepare petitions and briefs, conduct legal research, and negotiate with opposing counsel, coordinating with social service agencies and court personnel.

Qualifications

• Requires CA Bar admission and eligibility for admission.
• Experience in dependency, family, or child welfare matters preferred.
• Ability to manage a high-volume caseload with deadlines.
• Excellent written and oral communication and advocacy.

Responsibilities

• Represent clients in dependency matters and appear in court as needed.
• Meet with clients, assess issues, develop case strategies and manage cases.
• Prepare petitions, briefs, memoranda, and conduct legal research.
• Collaborate with social service agencies, courts, and internal staff for positive outcomes.

Skills

Dependency law

Family law

Legal research

Negotiation

Client counseling

Court appearances

Communication skills

California Bar

Education

Active California Bar license

Job description

Company Description DEPENDENCY LEGAL SERVICES is a law practice in several

Northern California Counties, serving clients across the region with a focus on high-quality legal representation. The organization is committed to supporting individuals and families navigating complex legal systems, particularly in matters affecting children and vulnerable communities. Team members work in a collaborative environment alongside experienced attorneys and legal professionals. The firm emphasizes ethical practice, client-centered advocacy, and professional development for its staff. Attorneys joining DEPENDENCY LEGAL SERVICES can expect a mission-driven culture dedicated to meaningful impact and community service.

Role Description The Staff Attorney will provide legal representation and advocacy in dependency and related matters, including court appearances, motion practice, and case management. Day-to-day responsibilities include meeting with clients, assessing legal issues, developing case strategies, and preparing legal documents such as petitions, briefs, and memoranda. The role involves conducting legal research, advising clients on their rights and options, and negotiating with opposing counsel and other parties as appropriate. The Staff Attorney will collaborate with social service agencies, court personnel, and internal team members to support positive outcomes for clients. This is a full-time, on-site role located in Modesto, CA, requiring regular attendance at local courts, client meetings, and office-based team activities.

Qualifications

• Strong foundation in Law, with experience or interest in dependency, family, or child welfare matters.
• Knowledge of Labor and Employment Law or related practice areas, and the ability to apply legal principles to complex factual situations.
• Ability to provide clear, practical Legal Advice to clients, with sound judgment and client-centered advocacy.
• Proficiency in legal Research, including case law, statutes, regulations, and policy materials.
• Effective Negotiation skills for resolving disputes, engaging with opposing counsel, and advocating in settlement discussions.
• Active membership in the California Bar (or eligibility for admission within a defined timeframe).
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, including drafting pleadings and presenting arguments in court.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage a high-volume caseload with deadlines.
• Commitment to equity, cultural humility, and working respectfully with clients from diverse backgrounds.
• Experience working in public interest, government, or nonprofit legal settings is beneficial.