GUARDIAN AD LITEM OFFICE, 7TH CIRCUIT- SENIOR ATTORNEY

GUARDIAN AD LITEM OFFICE, 7TH CIRCUIT - SENIOR ATTORNEY - 21013965 Agency: Justice Administrative Commission, Requisition No: 875990, Date: May 14, 2026. Position Overview: The State of Florida’s Guardian Ad Litem Office provides independent legal representation to abused, abandoned, and neglected children in dependency court proceedings. Senior Attorneys represent and advocate for children, work as part of a multidisciplinary team, and assist in developing case strategies. This position offers flexible remote work scheduling after successful onboarding. ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION AND THE OPPORTUNITY The Office upholds the highest standards of integrity, excellence, and child‑centered representation, supporting dependency judges with thorough and accurate information on children under jurisdiction. BENEFITS PACKAGE As a full‑time employee, benefits comprise at least 19% of total compensation, valued at a minimum of $93,137.24 (excluding elections). The benefits include: State of Florida retirement package – Pension or investment plan (3% employee contribution required) 9 paid state holidays 1 paid personal holiday 13 paid sick leave days 176 annual leave hours Life insurance $25,000 at no cost to the employee (additional coverage may be purchased) Supplemental insurances such as dental, vision, disability, etc. Florida Bar annual dues paid by the Agency, contingent on approval Public Loan Forgiveness Program No State of Florida income tax for residents of Florida State tuition waiver program Introductory training on guardianship practice, dependency law, and best practices for representing children Ongoing live in‑person trainings and webinars on case law, evidence, legal writing, trial skills, and ethics (CLE fulfillment) Online training academy covering topics such as dependency law, child abuse and neglect, substance abuse, psychotropic medications, independent living, developmental disabilities, trauma, human trafficking, educational advocacy, and more Lexis Nexis legal research search engine access ABOUT THE WORK Work under the supervision of the Managing Attorney or designee. Represent children as part of a multidisciplinary team focused on timely achievement of permanency and normalcy. Handle confidential and highly sensitive information in court. Review case files, conduct independent investigations, develop legal strategies, file pleadings and motions, and attend court proceedings including hearings, depositions, and mediations. Advocate and negotiate on behalf of children in and outside the courtroom. Assist other Guardian Ad Litem Attorneys in developing and implementing case strategies. Report directly to the Managing Attorney and receive operational supervision from the Circuit Director. ABOUT THE KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES Admission to the Florida Bar and proven ability to advocate effectively in court for the child. Knowledge of juvenile law, relevant procedural rules, evidence, and guardian ad litem representation. Effective communication skills and tact in dealing with individuals involved in stressful litigation. Ability to work with culturally and economically diverse populations. Proficiency with a personal computer and software such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook. ABOUT THE EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS Valid Florida Driver’s License. Accredited law school graduate, Florida Bar membership, and at least two years of experience in dependency or related law (or pending admission to the bar under supervisory approval). Strong trial skills preferred. Exception for the required experience may be granted by the Executive Director or designee. EEO AND LEGAL COMPLIANCE The State of Florida is an EEO employer. Employee drug testing is conducted in accordance with Florida law in the Drug‑Free Workplace Program. Persons requiring accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act must notify the hiring authority in advance. #J-18808-Ljbffr