Staff Attorney - Family Law

STAFF ATTORNEY - FAMILY LAW

Organization: AFSCME District Council 33 Legal Services Plan

Department: Legal Services

Position Type: Full-Time

Location: Philadelphia, PA

Reports To: Director of Legal Services

POSITION SUMMARY

AFSCME District Council 33 seeks a Staff Attorney who is dedicated and experienced in Family Law, to provide legal representation and guidance to union members and their eligible families.

The Staff Attorney will independently manage an assigned caseload, with assistance from an assigned paralegal, of family law matters, including complex divorce, child custody, child support, and related legal issues. This position requires strong legal knowledge, sound judgment, and a commitment to providing accessible, professional legal services to working families.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provide legal consultations, advice, and representation to eligible union members in family law matters.

• Handle cases involving complex divorce, child custody, child support, spousal support, and related domestic relations matters.

• Represent clients in court proceedings, mediations, and other related matters.

• Prepare legal documents, including petitions, motions, pleadings, and agreements, as well as all required follow -up.

• Independently manage an assigned caseload, ensuring that all filings are timely, court appearances, and case resolutions.

• Conduct legal research and remain current on Pennsylvania family law and court procedures.

• Treat both clients and colleagues with respect, dignity, compassion and optimism.

• Participate and contribute to the development and success of District Council 33 Legal Services Plan's programs and services.

• Maintain accurate case records and ensure strict client confidentiality.

• Provide legal education and guidance to union members regarding family law issues.

• Perform other related legal duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.

• Active license to practice law in Pennsylvania – must be in good standing.

• Minimum of three (3) years of family law experience preferred.

• Knowledge of Pennsylvania family law statutes and court procedures.

• Strong analytical, litigation, negotiation, research, and legal writing skills.

• Ability to independently manage multiple cases and deadlines.

• Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.

• Demonstrated commitment to serving working families and diverse communities with compassion, respect, and optimism.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience practicing in Philadelphia Family Court.

• Previous experience in nonprofit, union-affiliated, or community-based legal services.

• Experience representing clients in custody, divorce, and support proceedings.

• Ability to work effectively within a small, collaborative legal department.

POSITION EXPECTATIONS

The Staff Attorney is responsible for independently handling assigned legal matters while working collaboratively with the legal services team. The Staff Attorney is expected to be accountable, responsive, and willing to address and resolve the inquires of our member clients. This is a nonsupervisory position and does not include responsibility for managing legal department personnel, overseeing departmental operations, or supervising other attorneys.

ORGANIZATIONAL COMMITMENT

AFSCME District Council 33 is committed to supporting union members both in and outside the workplace through its legal services program. The organization provides accessible legal assistance and representation to help members and their families navigate important legal challenges.

AFSCME District Council 33's Health and Welfare Fund is committed to supporting union members both current and retired with the coordination of their benefits and retirement programs. The organization guides union members beginning with new hires during benefit orientation, through life event changes, and assisting retirees with enrollment after years of dedicated service.