Staff Attorney - Direct Representation for Youth in Care

Child Advocates; Indianapolis (IN); Hybrid; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Child Advocates, Inc. in Indiana seeks an experienced staff attorney for Direct Representation to advocate for youth in the state’s child welfare system.

The role requires independent casework across multiple counties and occasional travel, with a grant-funded appointment and a focus on trauma-informed representation of youth aged 10 and older. The attorney will handle pleadings, advise clients in clear terms, coordinate with DCS teams, and participate in Family Team meetings, with emphasis on

Qualifications

• Juris Doctorate from an ABA-accredited law school, admitted to practice in Indiana in good standing.
• Minimum five (5) years of experience in child welfare, juvenile delinquency, or family law.
• Excellent leadership and communication skills; ability to work independently.
• Knowledge of Indiana CHINS and TPR statutes; trauma-informed practice.

Responsibilities

• Provide expressed interest representation to youth 10 and older across Indiana.
• Work independently on cases, evaluating issues and presenting to judges and others.
• Maintain organization of multiple cases with strong communication with clients.
• Prepare and submit legal pleadings and coordinate appellate briefs as needed.
• Track court dates and arrange coverage when required; coordinate with DCS teams.
• Attend Child and Family Team meetings and provide input on systemic issues.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Analytical thinking

Independence

Case management

Education

Juris Doctorate (ABA-accredited)

Licensed to practice in Indiana (in good standing)

Job description

Child Advocates, Inc. in Indiana seeks an experienced staff attorney for Direct Representation to advocate for youth in the state’s child welfare system.

The role requires independent casework across multiple counties and occasional travel, with a grant-funded appointment and a focus on trauma-informed representation of youth aged 10 and older. The attorney will handle pleadings, advise clients in clear terms, coordinate with DCS teams, and participate in Family Team meetings, with emphasis on