What are the responsibilities and job description for the Adoptions Coordinator (1 vacancy and to establish a list) position at THIRD JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OF MICHIGAN?
SUMMARY:
Under the direction of the Deputy Court Administrator-Juvenile Division, the Adoptions Coordinator supervises court staff, ensuring timely and accurate processing of adoption cases according to the Michigan Adoption Code and Court Rules. This role requires professionalism and adherence to court procedures.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
· Serve as the primary expert on the Michigan Adoption Code for legal professionals, adoption attorneys, agencies and other adoption stakeholders.
· Monitor and implement updates to state adoption forms.
· Collaborate with other counties to standardize adoption practices.
· Schedule, attend, and provide recommendations at adoption hearings.
· Prepare memoranda and court orders for the assigned judge.
· Interpret and apply the Michigan Adoption Code and Court Rules to case processing and court policies.
· Track and implement changes to federal and state law affecting adoption procedures.
· Process filings for releases of a child, direct placements, and safe delivery.
· Review and manage agency finalization requests, supervision reports, and other adoption-related case filings.
· Supervise reporting staff, including work assignment, performance management, training, and disciplinary actions.
· Participate in meetings to improve adoption processes.
· Manage Odyssey system functions related to guardianship and adoption, including configuration, form maintenance, and user support.
· Ensure data accuracy in Odyssey.
· Generate statistical reports on case processing and compliance.
· Update procedures to optimize staff and technology utilization.
· Track SCAO permanency timelines.
· Monitor guardianships
· Perform other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS, LICENSES and CERTIFICATIONS:
· Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school, preferred.
· Demonstrated lead or supervisory experience in a human service, legal or court setting.
· Proficiency in MS Office Suite and legal research databases (e.g., Westlaw, LexisNexis).
· Ability to obtain Electronic Lien Operator certification and/or Judicial Data Warehouse.
- Experience commensurate with the job that demonstrates the required skills and competencies may be considered in lieu of education requirement(s).
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
· Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
· Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
· Ability to remain calm and effective under pressure.
· Proven ability to build and maintain professional relationships.
· Customer-focused with the ability to interact professionally with the public.
· Proficiency in operating office equipment.
· Effective time management and organizational skills.
· Comprehensive knowledge of court processes and procedures related to adoption.
- Proven ability to exercise sound judgment and maintain confidentiality.
- Ability to work with a diverse population.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Successful completion of criminal and IV-D background check and fingerprinting and rechecks.
- Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the U.S.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
· Ability to lift up to 25 lbs.
The above statements describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to the title. Incumbents may be required to perform job-related responsibilities and tasks other than those stated in this description. Specific job duties vary from position to position.
Grant funded positions are contingent on availability of grant funding and may be terminated should funding substantially reduce or cease. The affected employee may be considered as a candidate for other vacant positions within the Court for which they are qualified.
NOTES:
05/02/2014 Updated for content and format
08/14/2017 Updated for content and format
05/22/2024 Updated for content
02/05/2025 Updated for content (Physical requirements, Licenses, grant funded statement)
03/04/2025 Updated for content (Qualifications and Licenses…)
04/2/2025 Updated for content & format
04/16/2025 Updated for content & format