Attorney II

Job Responsibilities Do you have a passion to provide meaningful contributions to your community? Would you like to be part of an organization whose central mission is helping to protect, stabilize and strengthen the lives of South Carolina's children, families, and vulnerable adults? If so, the South Carolina Department of Social Services has the right job opportunity for you. Job Duties The County Attorney II provides professional legal services and representation for assigned county offices, area adoption offices, and the regional Day Care licensing office, including representation in Family Court on issues related to child protection, foster care, adoption, adult protection, and Economic Services. Represents the agency in all matters pertaining to emergency or non-emergency removal of children and vulnerable adults, termination of parental rights, inspection warrants, in‑home protective services, permanency planning, judicial review, and any appeals resulting from such actions. Timely prepares, files, and serves (or ensures the timely preparation of) all pleadings, motions, orders, notices, rules to show cause, and other court documents related to representation of the agency in legal actions, ensuring all determinations required by state and federal law are included. Conducts case staffing meetings to analyze legal status, advise staff on legal matters, and prepare cases for court by managing discovery, interviews, witness preparation, and reviewing agency documentation. Complies with agency policy and state/federal law in representing the agency in permanency planning hearings and termination of parental rights. Ensures timely provision of notice of legal proceedings to appropriate parties regarding agency actions. Utilizes or ensures the utilization of the Legal Case Management System for legal operations and documentation of activity in cases. Builds and maintains a professional network, attends training sessions, reviews legislation and case law, advises staff on legal matters, participates in agency meetings, and conducts in‑house training for other staff. Performs Red Cross shelter duty or other emergency shelter duty/services as directed. Minimum and Additional Requirements A Juris Doctorate Degree or its equivalent from an accredited law school. At least 18 months experience as a practicing attorney. Must be a member of the South Carolina Bar. Valid driver’s license and ability to drive, lift children, and interact with children and adults in a positive manner. Experience Preferred Prior experience as a DSS attorney. Benefits Health, Dental, Vision, Long‑Term Disability, and Life Insurance for employee, spouse, and children. 15 days annual vacation leave per year. 15 days sick leave per year. 13 paid holidays. Paid parental leave. State retirement plan and deferred compensation programs. #J-18808-Ljbffr