What are the responsibilities and job description for the Staff Attorney - Juvenile Court position at Legal Aid of Nebraska?
Description
Job Summary
Provide quality and aggressive representation of low-income clients of Legal Aid of Nebraska and engages in the day-to-day practice of law in the office to which assigned according to the priorities and practices set by Legal Aid of Nebraska. Attorneys in the juvenile project provide a wide array of legal services. These services include extensive trial practice, advocacy with the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), communicating with social service providers, attending meetings with parties involved in juvenile cases, visiting and representing children, frequent contact with clients, many of whom suffer from drug and alcohol addiction, mental illness, and other conditions, frequent court appearances, and an active caseload.
Essential Functions
- Interview clients to gather relevant information and assess legal needs.
- Provide legal advice and assistance to eligible clients.
- Represent clients in litigation at both the trial and appellate levels.
- Collaborate with and support other attorneys and supervisors as needed.
- Maintain positive and professional relationships with Legal Aid of Nebraska’s client community.
- Continue developing professional expertise through ongoing education and experience.
- Comply with all applicable laws, rules, policies, procedures, and regulations.
- Attend organizational orientations, trainings, and meetings as required.
- Participate in seminars and conferences as requested.
- Consistently demonstrate professionalism in conduct and communication.
The Juvenile Project attorney will specifically perform the following duties in the Lancaster County Court system:
- Represent parents in abuse and neglect proceedings, including proceedings involving the termination of parental rights;
- Act as guardian ad litem (GAL) for minor children and parents;
- Represent children in "law violation" cases, including GAL services, representation in truancy and other "ungovernable" cases;
- Child support matters where appropriate
Requirements
- Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school.
- Licensed to practice law in Nebraska (or eligible for admission soon).
- Strong commitment to serving low-income individuals and families.
- Awareness of the legal challenges faced by underserved communities.
- Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
- Ability to manage a litigation-based caseload and collaborate effectively with colleagues.
Preferred
- Experience in poverty law, legal aid, or community service is preferred.
- Fluency in another language commonly spoken by clients is a plus.
What We Offer
Legal Aid of Nebraska provides a comprehensive and competitive benefits package designed to support the well-being and work–life balance of our employees. Our benefits include:
- 15 paid holidays
- Generous vacation and sick leave
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Employer-paid life insurance and long-term disability coverage
- Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) insurance
- Paid Family and Medical Leave (FMLA)
- Retirement plan with employer contributions
- Employee assistance program (EAP)
- Wellness benefit, including reimbursement for gym or health club memberships
- Opportunities for professional development and training
Legal Aid of Nebraska is proud to be an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive and supportive workplace.