Location: Dallas, TX
Beginning Salary: $124,420
Job Summary
This position is the intake attorney for civil litigation representation of the Texas Department of Family Protective Services (TDFPS) in instances of alleged child abuse or neglect. Additionally, this position involves providing ongoing training to TDFPS staff, as well as other Child Welfare prosecutors. This attorney will serve as the intake attorney for all Child Welfare cases filed in the Dallas County Juvenile Courts and the Dallas County Family Courts.
Essential Job Functions
- Reviewing any potential conflicts of interest for the Dallas County DA’s Office in representing TDFPS
- Advising TDFPS on the application of law related to specific facts, circumstances and goals of the Department
- Reviewing case submissions for both legal and factual sufficiency
- Evaluating the proper jurisdiction and venue for cases, based on both State laws and Dallas County local rules
- Collaborating with TDFPS staff to prepare cases for filing, including review of any existing Court orders, as well as preparation of supporting affidavits and documents
- Reviewing, correcting, and approving motions and petitions, proposed orders, and ancillary documents related to the filing of Child Welfare cases
- Attending ex parte hearings related to Child Welfare proceedings
- Drafting legal documents, such as petitions, motions and proposed orders, using both pre-existing forms and also document assembly software
- Researching and providing counsel to TDFPS related to Child Welfare litigation, including but not limited to lawsuits involving orders to compel cooperation with a TDFPS investigation, orders for the removal of children, orders for required participation in Court ordered services, protective orders, orders to remove an alleged perpetrator from the home, and orders for emergency medical treatment
- eFiling documents
- Providing ongoing training to TDFPS staff, as well as Child Welfare prosecutors and staff within our office
- Attending client meetings with TDFPS staff and collaboration meetings with the Dallas County Judges
- Other duties as assigned
Minimum Qualifications
Licensed to practice law in the State of Texas.
A Juris Doctor Degree and three years as a practicing attorney. Experience representing TDFPS, respondent parents, and/or children who are subject to a suit affecting the parent child relationship is preferred. Prior family law experience may considered in lieu of Child Welfare law experience.
How to Apply
Please contact Michael O’Brien at [email protected]