Child Services Attorney

About the Department of Child Services Join a group of passionate, dedicated public servants to support one of Indiana’s most critical missions! The Department of Child Services helps children who are victims of abuse or neglect and strengthens families through services that focus on family support and preservation. We pursue permanency for children and families through reunification, guardianship, and adoption. Our services also encompass foster care, child support, and transitional support for those adjusting to adulthood. Mission : Champion Indiana’s future by protecting children and strengthening families with compassion and determination. Vision : Every child in Indiana thrives in a safe, loving, forever home. Purpose : Ignite hope. Cultivate joy. Role Overview The Child Services Attorney provides legal advice and legal services to the Central Office, County Offices, and staff for juvenile law related to Child Welfare, Child Support, and personnel matters. The attorney assists and represents DCS in court and administrative issues, including representation in Child In Need of Services (CHINS) cases, Termination of Parental Rights (TPR), adoptions, foster care licensing actions, and other child safety matters. The position works closely with Family Case Managers to prepare for court hearings and may serve as legal counsel for internal employment issues. This role offers immediate trial experience and does not encompass billable hours. The schedule is Monday–Friday, 37.5 hours a week, located in Bloomfield, Indiana, and serves Parke County and surrounding counties. The position is exempt from overtime compensation for additional work hours that may be required to complete essential functions. Exempt employees may work more than 75 hours in a pay period without additional compensation and must report a minimum of 75 hours per pay period of work hours and/or paid leave taken to receive their base biweekly salary. A Day In The Life Advises Department of Child Services staff on various program and legal areas as assigned. Drafts and reviews contracts and correspondence. Serves as a liaison to the Attorney General on litigation and tort claims matters. Drafts and reviews legislation and administrative rules. Performs legal research and writing assignments. Provides general legal support for the Office of General Counsel. Oversees contract process for local office attorneys. Conducts legal training for Family Case Managers, attorneys, and others as requested. Litigates Children in Need of Services and Termination of Parental Rights cases in State Courts representing the agency in such actions. Handles administrative matters and hearings as assigned. Organizes and manages caseload in preparation for hearings and/or litigation. Generates appropriate pleadings, motions, discovery, and responses. Delegates to and provides support for any legal support staff. Drafts appeals and appellate briefs. May participate in committees, groups, or teams such as screen‑out committees. May serve as local counsel for the Indiana Office of Attorney General on assigned cases. Credentials Doctorate of Jurisprudence. Indiana Bar Admission with license in good standing, OR admission to any state bar in the United States with license in good standing and willingness to obtain temporary foreign license status as required for admission to the Indiana Bar. Additional Qualifications Strong legal research, writing, and litigation skills. Strong communication and public speaking skills. Demonstrated knowledge and ability to apply relevant statutes, case law, and rules. Able to perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation. Supervisory Responsibilities/Direct Reports This role may be utilized in a supervisory capacity based on agency needs. Benefits Of Employment With The State Of Indiana Three medical plan options (including RX coverage), vision and dental plans. Wellness Rewards Program: complete wellness activities to earn gift card rewards. Health savings account with bi‑weekly state contribution. Deferred compensation 457(b) account with employer match. Two fully‑funded pension plan options. Robust leave policies covering a variety of employee needs, including but not limited to: 150 hours of paid New Parent Leave and up to eight weeks of paid Childbirth Recovery Leave for eligible mothers. Up to 15 hours of paid community service leave. Combined 180 hours of paid vacation, personal, and sick leave. 12 paid holidays, 14 in election years. Education reimbursement program. Group life insurance. Referral bonus program. Employee assistance program that allows for covered behavioral health visits. Qualified employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. Free parking for most positions. Free LinkedIn Learning access. Equal Employment Opportunity The State of Indiana is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to recruiting, selecting, developing, and promoting employees based on individual ability and job performance. Reasonable accommodations may be available to enable individuals with disabilities to complete the application and interview process as well as perform the essential functions of the role. If you require reasonable accommodations to complete this application, you can request assistance by contacting the Indiana State Personnel Department at View email address on click.appcast.io. #J-18808-Ljbffr