Children's Staff Attorney - FL - On Site

Naples, FL

About us

We are 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. LAClient has 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, LAClient helps 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. For more information, please visit www.browardlegalaid.org .

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. Attorneys will be responsible for carrying a full case load 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; and legal research and drafting of pleadings. Attorneys may also advocate for child victims of crime, including human trafficking, and engage in system advocacy to improve child welfare and the dependency system. Attorneys may also assist youth clients navigating the juvenile delinquency system.

Qualifications

  • 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.
  • 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 Kreyol, or Portuguese preferred.