About the Opportunity
The Statewide Guardian ad Litem Office is a state-funded child advocacy organization that provides independent legal representation to abused, abandoned, and neglected children in Florida's dependency court proceedings. As a highly respected and award-winning organization, we uphold the highest standards of integrity, excellence, and child-centered representation. Our team of dedicated professionals works tirelessly to ensure that every child receives the support and advocacy they deserve.
About the Role
We are seeking an experienced and passionate Attorney to join our team as a Child Advocacy and Litigation Specialist for the 20th Circuit. As a Guardian ad Litem Attorney, you will be assigned to represent children in dependency court proceedings, working closely with a multi-disciplinary team to achieve timely permanency and normalcy for the child. This is a unique opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of vulnerable children and to be part of a team that is dedicated to providing exceptional advocacy and support.
Key Responsibilities
- Represent children in dependency court proceedings, including hearings, depositions, and mediations
- Conduct independent investigations of the facts of each case, researching and developing legal strategies to achieve the best possible outcomes for the child
- File pleadings, motions, and other court documents, and communicate effectively with judges, attorneys, and other stakeholders
- Meet with Guardian ad Litem staff, witnesses, collateral contacts, and the children represented by the Office to gather information and build relationships
- Perform other duties assigned by management, including training and professional development opportunities
Essential Qualifications
- Admission to The Florida Bar, with a strong understanding of juvenile law, including relevant rules of procedure and evidence
- Ability to communicate effectively and deal tactfully with individuals involved in litigation and stressful situations
- Ability to work with individuals from culturally and economically diverse backgrounds
- Valid Florida Driver's License
- Graduation from an accredited law school, with a strong academic record and a commitment to public service
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience working with children and families in a legal or social services setting
- Knowledge of child welfare laws and policies, including the Florida Child Welfare Manual
- Experience with case management software and other technology tools
- Strong research and analytical skills, with the ability to think critically and strategically
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to write clear and concise court documents and communicate effectively with stakeholders
Skills and Competencies
To be successful in this role, you will need to possess a range of skills and competencies, including:
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to think critically and strategically
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with children, families, and stakeholders
- Strong research and writing skills, with the ability to write clear and concise court documents
- Ability to work in a fast-paced and dynamic environment, with multiple priorities and deadlines
- Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple cases and tasks simultaneously
Career Growth Opportunities and Learning Benefits
We offer a range of career growth opportunities and learning benefits, including:
- Opportunities for professional development and training, including training on guardianship practice, dependency law, and best practice guidance for attorneys communicating with and representing children
- Access to online training academy with a catalog of introductory and advanced courses on topics such as dependency law, child abuse and neglect, substance abuse, and more
- Opportunities to work with a multi-disciplinary team, including child welfare professionals, community volunteers, and pro bono attorneys
- Access to Lexis Nexis legal research search engine
Work Environment and Company Culture
We offer a dynamic and supportive work environment, with a strong focus on teamwork and collaboration. Our team is dedicated to providing exceptional advocacy and support to children and families, and we are committed to creating a positive and inclusive work culture.
Compensation, Perks, and Benefits
We offer a competitive salary, with a range of benefits and perks, including:
- State of Florida Retirement package, including pension or investment plan
- 9 paid state holidays
- 1 paid personal holiday
- 13 paid sick leave days
- 176 annual leave hours
- Life insurance $25,000 is provided by the state at no cost to you for all FTE positions
- Additional supplemental insurances available, including dental, vision, disability, and more
- Florida Bar annual dues are paid for by the Agency, contingent upon agency approval
- Public Loan Forgiveness Program
- No State of Florida income tax for residents of Florida
- No mandatory night/weekend/holiday scheduled work
- State Tuition Waiver Program
How to Apply
To apply for this exciting opportunity, please visit our website at www.guardianadlitem.org and click on the "Career Opportunities" icon. You can also email your mini application and resume directly to [email protected]. We look forward to hearing from you!
Equal Opportunity Employer/Affirmative Action Employer
The State of Florida is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Affirmative Action Employer, and does not tolerate discrimination or violence in the workplace. We are committed to creating a positive and inclusive work culture, and we welcome applications from diverse candidates.
Reasonable Accommodation
Candidates requiring a reasonable accommodation, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act, must notify the agency hiring authority and/or People First Service Center (1-866-663-4735). Notification to the hiring authority must be made in advance to allow sufficient time to provide the accommodation.
Drug-Free Workplace
The State of Florida supports a Drug-Free workplace. All employees are subject to reasonable suspicion drug testing in accordance with Section 112.0455, F.S., Drug-Free Workplace Act.
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