What are the responsibilities and job description for the Child Advocate Trial Attorney (Fall 2026) position at Defender Association of Philadelphia?
The Defender Association of Philadelphia is a non-profit law firm serving the clients in the city of Philadelphia. Defender attorneys are part of a dynamic team that includes social workers, paralegals, mitigation specialists, investigators, and administrative professionals who play critical roles serving our clients and communities. The Child Advocacy Unit (CAU) represents Philadelphia’s children from birth to twenty-one years old. in matters involving allegations of physical and sexual abuse, neglect, abandonment, truancy, and incorrigibility as well as in adoption proceedings. We employ a client centered representation model using a multi-disciplinary team-based approach which includes providing clients with zealous advocacy in the courtroom and community partnering.
Each year, we welcome new attorneys to our CAU. After six week-long training session, new attorneys will slowly build their caseload.
Based on our progressive representation model and training provided, the Defender Association asks for a three-year commitment.
Successful applicants will have:
- Demonstrated Interest and commitment to children’s issues and juvenile justice
- Experience or interest in serving racially and socioeconomically- oppressed clients and communities
- Prior legal experience in dependency, adoption, or child welfare which could include clinical law school programs or prior legal internships
- Ability to deal effectively with children, adolescents, and family members
- Ability to work collaboratively in a high-volume practice
- Ability to travel courtroom, juvenile facilities, and community placements
Benefits & Perks
- Comprehensive benefits package, including affordable options for medical care and employer-paid vision, dental, life insurance, and long-term disability insurance
- 35 days of paid time off annually, in addition to all federal holidays
- Eight weeks of paid parental leave
- 403(b) retirement plan with employer match
- Free SEPTA All-Access Key Card
- Ongoing professional training and development
- Meaningful, mission-driven work within a supportive team
Compensation
Barred - $75,000 Non-Barred - $55,000
How to Apply
Pennsylvania barred attorneys and third year law students who plan on taking the Pennsylvania Bar immediately after graduation are invited to apply online by submitting a cover letter addressing interest, resume and transcripts. For further questions, please contact Sharene Ginyard, Esq., Director of CAU Recruiting.
Make a difference. Become a Defender.
The Defender Association of Philadelphia is more than just a law firm. We’re the community’s lawyers. Come join our team! For more information, go Defender’s Child Advocacy Unit and follow us @PhillyDefenders (Twitter, IG, Tiktok) and on LinkedIn.
The Defender Association provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, The Defender Association complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.
Salary : $55,000 - $75,000