Staff Attorney – Juvenile Litigation (Hybrid)

State of Missouri; Chesterfield (MO); Hybrid; USD 75,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, vision insurance

MOSERS pension

Paid vacation & sick leave

Hybrid work option

Continuing legal education

Job summary

State of Missouri, Division of Legal Services, is seeking a Staff Attorney for the Eastern Regional Litigation team in Chesterfield, MO. The role advises DSS divisions, advocates for children and families, and offers a hybrid work model after onboarding.

The position involves representing DSS in juvenile courts, managing welfare-related litigation, and providing broad legal guidance while ensuring compliance with laws and agency policies.

Qualifications

• A juris doctor from an accredited institution and membership in good standing with the Missouri Bar is required.
• Competent research and writing skills are required.
• Experience in litigation and a background in juvenile, family, and administrative law are preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

• Representing DSS in juvenile court, administrative hearings, and other proceedings, often appearing early in tenure.
• Managing civil litigation related to child welfare matters, including motions, evidentiary hearings, negotiations, and trial preparation.
• Providing legal advice to DSS and its divisions on a wide range of issues.
• Defending child abuse and neglect determinations made by DSS in circuit court.
• Ensuring confidentiality and compliance with state and federal requirements.
• Collaborating with DSS staff to support case strategy and permanency planning.

Skills

Litigation experience

Research and writing

Juvenile family admin law

Education

Juris Doctor (J.D.)

Missouri Bar in good standing

Job description

State of Missouri, Division of Legal Services, is seeking a Staff Attorney for the Eastern Regional Litigation team in Chesterfield, MO. The role advises DSS divisions, advocates for children and families, and offers a hybrid work model after onboarding.

The position involves representing DSS in juvenile courts, managing welfare-related litigation, and providing broad legal guidance while ensuring compliance with laws and agency policies.