Senior Assistant County Attorney

Job Description

Job Description

The Dutchess County Attorney’s Office is seeking dedicated, mission-driven attorneys to represent the Department of Community and Family Services (DCFS) in Family Court and Supreme Court proceedings. You will serve as primary counsel on critical matters involving child welfare, child support, adult protective services, and administrative fair hearings, working directly with caseworkers, law enforcement, and judicial officers to protect vulnerable individuals and support local families.

Key Responsibilities

• Represent DCFS in child welfare, child support, and adult welfare cases in New York State Family Court and Supreme Court.
• Direct and participate in all aspects of investigations alongside law enforcement, DCFS caseworkers, and legal staff.
• Draft, review, and file petitions, motions, orders, and post-judgment applications.
• Prepare for and conduct fact-finding hearings, trials, and appellate arguments.
• Evaluate case merits, negotiate appropriate settlements, and manage administrative fair hearings.
• Provide day-to-day strategic legal guidance to agency staff and caseworkers.

Minimum Qualifications

• Education & Bar Admission: Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school and active admission to the New York State Bar in good standing (Required).
• Experience Level:
• • Assistant County Attorney: 0–2+ years of legal practice.
  • Senior Assistant County Attorney: 3+ years of litigation experience.
• Preferred Background: Prior experience in child welfare, child support, family law, or municipal litigation is strongly preferred.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Deep working knowledge of the New York Family Court Act, Social Services Law, and CPLR.
• Excellent courtroom advocacy, brief writing, and negotiation skills.
• Ability to manage a high-volume caseload in a fast-paced environment with strict statutory deadlines.
• High emotional intelligence and sound judgment when handling sensitive family dynamics.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary Range: Competitive municipal salary based on experience and title level (Assistant vs. Senior).
• Benefits: Full New York State public employment benefits package, including comprehensive healthcare coverage, dental/vision, NYS Retirement System pension, and generous paid time off.
• Loan Forgiveness: Eligible position for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF).