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.

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.
 

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.

INSTRUCTIONS:

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