NCGAL Attorney Advocate

SALARY GRADE: Grade 23

The NC Guardian ad Litem (NCGAL) Program provides legal representation for children in abuse, neglect, and dependency proceedings in juvenile district court. After a child welfare agency files a petition, the NCGAL attorney advocate is appointed to represent the juvenile's best interest and to protect the child's legal rights for the duration of the proceedings. The attorney advocate also advises NCGAL program staff and child advocate volunteers regarding the child-client's legal interests to help the child achieve permanence in a safe, nurturing home. The attorney advocate is responsible, in consultation with NCGAL State Office Legal Team or Administrator, in directing the course of the litigation. This position will primarily practice in Johnston and Harnett counties but may be assigned to serve in other counties as needed.

• Advocate for the best interests of the NCGAL child-client and assure protection of their legal rights in court.
• Maintain current knowledge of controlling case law, statutes, State Bar guidelines, rules and opinions, and local rules of court.
• Review, draft, issue and serve court orders, when entered. Ensure staff, child advocate volunteers and child-clients are informed of orders.
• File motions, pleadings and other court documents to effectively advocate for the child-client.
• Facilitate settlement of disputed issues, including entering stipulations or consent orders when appropriate for the child-client.
• Analyze documentary evidence and testimony, including mental health, medical and substance use reports.
• Develop and execute litigation plan to address evidence in the case to ensure the child-client's rights are preserved.

Salary

• $70,282 - $116,101/year

Qualifications

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities / Competencies

Knowledge of: GAL Program policies and procedures, child neglect and abuse law, NC Juvenile Code and relevant case law; trial and appellate court processes, GAL training materials, word processing, and computer systems to support duties and responsibilities.

Skill in: written and oral communication; research using Lexis, internet, and the NC Courts website; organizing and expressing ideas and legal concepts orally and in writing; legal analysis; and establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with GAL program staff and volunteer advocates.

Ability to: effectively advocate in court; employ strong negotiating skills; draft any necessary motions or memoranda of law; advocate for the best interests of juveniles and for the best practice policies and procedures of the GAL Program.

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements

Juris Doctor Degree from an American Bar Association (ABA) accredited law school and an active license to practice law in North Carolina.

Management prefers candidates with at least two years of legal practice and trial experience in juvenile court and a thorough knowledge of the NC Juvenile Code and relevant case law. Experience working with volunteer advocates is also beneficial.

Attach cover letter and résumé.

No phone calls. Applicants who are no longer being considered will be notified by mail or e-mail sometime after the closing date.

How to Apply

Applicants must complete an on-line application by clicking the above APPLY link. Mailed or faxed applications will not be accepted.

Before applying, please read the Online Employment Application Guide for instructions on creating your profile and applying for specific postings.

It is important your application includes all of your relevant education and work experience and that you answer all questions associated with the application to receive proper credit. Résumés are not accepted in lieu of fully completed applications.

*NOTE*
Many job postings require certain documents be attached to an application. Verify your application is complete and uploaded documents are attached to your application before submitting it. Applications may not be altered after they have been submitted.

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All NC Judicial Branch agencies are Equal Opportunity Employers.

The North Carolina Judicial Branch participates in E-Verify, an internet-based system that compares information from an employee's Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, to data from the US Department of Homeland Security and Social Security Administration records to confirm employment eligibility.
Charmaine J. Leeks
NC Administrative Office of the Courts
Human Resources Division Benefits

Judicial Branch employees are eligible for the North Carolina State Government benefits package. The package consists of a comprehensive collection of benefit options including medical coverage, defined benefit retirement, supplemental retirement, flexible benefits, supplemental insurance, and other miscellaneous benefits.

Employees of the North Carolina Judicial Department have the opportunity to participate in an array of benefit offerings depending on employment status. The Benefits Eligibility Chart describes benefit eligibility by employment status.