Description
The Department of Child Services (DCS) is seeking qualified contracted attorneys and/or firms interested in providing legal services to DCS on a contractual basis to supplement existing legal staff in multiple counties. The contracted attorneys and/or firms will provide legal advice and legal services to county offices and staff of DCS for Juvenile law matters relating to Child Welfare and to represent and assist DCS in administrative and court matters. In addition to other duties, the contracted attorney may be responsible for representing DCS in Child In Need of Services (CHINS) cases, Termination of Parental Rights (TPR) cases, administrative hearings, and other general legal issues relating to the safety of children. This role requires active litigation, and the person in this role will work closely with Family Case Managers to prepare for court hearings. This role does not offer state benefits.
Requirements
Minimum requirements include the following:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Juris Doctor degree; Licensed to practice law in the State of Indiana with at least two (2) years of experience practicing law
- A demonstrated understanding of and /or interest in at least one of the following: child welfare law, family law, and /or administrative law
- Must be familiar with or become familiar with laws, rules, and policies which impact DCS work
- Ability and willingness to litigate matters at the trial/local court level
- Familiarity with programs such as Microsoft Word, Outlook, Excel and Internet Explorer
- Prior public service is preferred
To inquire, express interest, or seek additional information (such as a sample outside counsel agreement and detailed scope of duties), please contact the Department of Child Services at DCSLegalContracts@dcs.in.gov.
