Job Description

Children's Staff Attorney

Broward, FL

About Us

We are a Southern Florida area non-profit, pro bono law firm. Every day, we work hard to meet the legal needs of a large, diverse, multiethnic community across Broward County. Our mission is to provide high-quality, free civil legal advice, representation, and education to the disadvantaged of Broward County. We have more than 125 employees, including more than 50 attorneys, who provide free services and resources across a broad range of civil legal issues that impact health, safety, and self-sufficiency. Every year, we help thousands find their voice, regain control of their lives, and build a brighter future. Through education, effective litigation, and collaboration, we work tirelessly to expand access to justice for all, identify needs in our community, and challenge systems, laws, and policies that adversely affect the underserved and marginalized.

Position Summary

As a Children's Staff Attorney, your duty is to provide direct, independent legal representation of children and youth in the child welfare system.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Carrying a full caseload which includes meeting with and counseling child and youth clients to determine the course of legal advocacy.
• Frequent court advocacy at all types of dependency proceedings, from status hearings to motion hearings to trials.
• Participating in mediations, negotiations, and treatment team staffings.
• Legal research and drafting of pleadings.
• Advocate for child victims of crime, including human trafficking, and engage in system advocacy to improve child welfare and the dependency system.
• Assist youth clients navigating the juvenile delinquency system.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Commitment to improving the lives of children and families involved in the child welfare system.
• Willingness to work with, advocate for, and support children who have experienced trauma.
• Willingness to be empathetic with children and youth who manifest trauma in unhealthy or maladaptive behaviors.
• Value team collaborative efforts.
• Willingness to be a strong advocate for children and youth clients.
• Capability for travel within Broward County.
• Bilingual in English and Spanish, Haitian Creole, or Portuguese preferred.

Education & Experience

• Member in good standing of the Florida Bar.
• Background or experience in child dependency law, children's law, or related areas is preferred.
• Courtroom litigation experience preferred.

We are deeply committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and has an equal opportunity to contribute and grow. To enrich our team and better reflect the diverse world we serve, we especially welcome applications from individuals who identify as persons of color, veterans, persons with disabilities, and those from communities that have been historically underrepresented. We firmly believe that a variety of backgrounds and perspectives strengthens our organization and enhances our ability to provide exceptional service.

We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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