Staff Attorney III

The Office of the Child Advocate ensures the protection of the legal, civil and special rights of the children in the care of the Department of Children, Youth and Families. The office also represents the interests of children who are in voluntary placement with the Department of Children, Youth and Families. Duties to include any and all activities necessary to fulfill the statutory mandates of the Office of the Child Advocate statute.

• Assist with Victim Compensation Program claims, and preparation of corresponding documentation and reports required by the Program. 
• Assist with the Recipe for Success Program administered by the Office. 
• Serve as the Guardian ad litem in any case as assigned by the Child Advocate or Assistant Child Advocate.
• Assist with legal advocacy for children and youth referred to our office by the RI Family Court or any matter involving court involvement. 
• Attend any and all meetings regarding youth referred to the office as assigned.
• Provide legal research, legal analysis and/or any reports as requested by the Child Advocate and Assistant Child Advocate. 
• Respond to inquiries as they relate to children in the care of the Department. 
• Assist with the response to legal questions posed in inquiries regarding children in DCYF care. 
• Assist with research for legislative advocacy pursuant to the statutory mandate of the office, as assigned. 
• Assist the Child Advocate and Assistant Child Advocate with trainings for Guardian ad litem and special advocates. 
• Assist with the review of DCYF and other documentation when there is a child fatality, assist with the preparation of chronologies, subpoenas, or other required documentation necessary to complete an investigation. 
• Assist the legal staff monitor all legal issues at the Training School and petition the Family Court, as needed. 
• Attend committee meetings and task force meetings as assigned. 
• The Staff Attorney’s responsibilities are subject to change and will be expected to perform other related duties as necessary.

The Staff Attorney III shall possess a J.D. from an accredited law school and licensed to practice in Rhode Island for at least three (3) years. Applicant will be expected to obtain their Federal Court license within one (1) year of employment. Valid driver’s license, BCI and CANTS check required.