A. Legal Representation • Represent the Department in all matters pertaining to emergency or non-emergency removal of children and vulnerable adults, termination of parental rights, obstruction petitions, in-home protective services, permanency planning, judicial review of children receiving services, adult protective orders, guardianship hearings, establishment and enforcement of child support, and any appeals resulting from such actions. • Timely preparation, filing, and service of all pleadings, motions, orders, notices, orders to show cause, briefs, judgments, and other documents related to representation of the Department. • Litigation of cases for Sampson County Child Protective Services, Adult Protective Services, and the Child Support Enforcement Agency. • Litigate and consult on cases in other counties as needed for conflict cases. B. Consultation & Advisory Services • Timely conduct case staffing meetings for the purpose of analyzing the legal status of cases and otherwise advising staff on Department legal matters. • Consult with opposing attorneys, consulting attorneys, staff, and outside agency representatives. • Receive and respond to legal questions and research requests from the Department. • Be available during and after business hours, including weekends and holidays, to consult on Department emergency issues, including preparing, reviewing, and signing documents as needed for emergency orders. • Problem solving with Department staff and DSS administration regarding various Department issues. C. Training, Meetings & Professional Development • Maintain legal knowledge including changes to statutes and policy regarding DSS issues and attending regular Continuing Legal Education (CLE) programs. • Develop and participate in training initiatives for social work staff to enhance understanding of child welfare law, strengthen legal compliance, and improve case practice. • Participate in quarterly meetings with DSS management staff to review program strengths and weaknesses, troubleshoot challenges, and collaboratively develop practical solutions. • Provide legal oversight to two agency paralegals.
