Please only apply if you have taken the California bar exam and are pending results or if you are a licensed attorney. Compensation is based on experience About Dependency Legal Services Dependency Legal Services (DLS) is a dynamic nonprofit law firm dedicated to protecting the rights and advancing the interests of children and parents involved in child abuse and neglect proceedings. We provide high-quality, client-centered multidisciplinary legal advocacy to families across six California counties, representing clients in high-volume, fast-paced juvenile dependency proceedings. At DLS, associate attorneys are at the center of the work and play a critical role in every stage of dependency proceedings. From initial hearings through case resolution, our attorneys work directly with clients, provide courtroom representation, develop case strategies, collaborate with families and multidisciplinary professionals, and advocate vigorously for the rights and well-being of the families we serve. With DLS, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families while developing substantial courtroom experience and expertise in juvenile dependency law. Position Overview Dependency Legal Services (DLS) is seeking an Associate Attorney to represent children and parents in juvenile dependency proceedings. This is a dynamic, client-centered litigation role with substantial hands-on experience in all aspects of dependency practice including law and motion practice, contested and uncontested hearings, trials, client interviews, negotiation, legal research and writing, and appellate advocacy. The Associate Attorney will have the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families navigating the child welfare system. We welcome candidates with 0-8 years of legal experience , including applicants who are awaiting California Bar Exam results. Whether you are beginning your legal career or are an experienced litigator looking to explore dependency practice, DLS provides extensive training, mentorship, and hands-on courtroom experience to encourage growth as a courtroom advocate. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a strong commitment to client advocacy, sound judgment, adaptability, effective time management, and collaborative teamwork. Key Responsibilities

• Represent children and parents throughout all stages of juvenile dependency proceedings under Welfare & Institutions Code § 300 .
• Build strong attorney-client relationships through client interviews and maintain consistent, timely communication with clients by phone, text, email, and other appropriate means.
• Prepare for and participate in hearings, trials, law and motion matters, and other court proceedings.
• Conduct legal research, draft motions, briefs, pleadings, correspondence, and other legal documents.
• Advise clients regarding their legal rights, available options, and the potential consequences of court proceedings in a clear, developmentally appropriate, and trauma-informed manner.
• Collaborate closely with DLS staff social workers, senior attorneys, and other members of a multidisciplinary team to develop effective case strategies and provide comprehensive client representation.
• Identify and address ancillary legal issues affecting clients, which may include criminal matters, housing, public benefits, education, immigration, probate, and eligibility for government assistance.
• Interview and prepare witnesses, including lay and expert witnesses, relatives, service providers, opposing counsel, and other parties.
• Prepare and respond to subpoenas and communicate effectively with individuals and agencies involved in client cases.
• Manage contested and uncontested appearances, pre-court case staffings, hearings, negotiations, trials, and other litigation responsibilities.
• Prepare appellate filings, including writ petitions and notices of appeal, and advocate for appropriate appellate relief when necessary.
• Maintain accurate and timely case records, documentation, and data in JCATS and other DLS systems.
• Participate in regular case consultations, team meetings, and meetings with DLS leadership.
• Pursue ongoing professional development and training to strengthen legal knowledge, litigation skills, and courtroom advocacy.
• Contribute to DLS program development, public presentations, community outreach, and other organizational initiatives. Minimum Qualifications
• Active membership in good standing with the State Bar of California or currently awaiting California Bar Exam results.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• A demonstrated commitment to serving low-income and diverse communities and advocating for the rights of children, parents, and youth.
• Ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, take initiative, and effectively manage a substantial caseload.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to prioritize competing deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Valid California driver's license, current auto insurance, and reliable access to transportation. Knowledge & Abilities
• Willingness and ability to learn and apply California law, including the Welfare and Institutions Code, Evidence Code, Code of Civil Procedure, and relevant case law.
• Strong legal research, analytical, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to quickly identify and apply relevant legal principles.
• Excellent legal writing, oral advocacy, negotiation, and litigation skills.
• Ability to effectively manage multiple cases and competing priorities in a high-volume, fast-paced practice.
• Ability and willingness to be in-person in the office consistently as a strong part of a dynamic, multidisciplinary team.
• Ability to work collaboratively with attorneys, social workers, leadership, clients, and external agencies.
• Strong interpersonal skills, cultural humility, and sensitivity to the experiences and needs of clients from diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to communicate complex legal concepts clearly and effectively, including with children and youth and clients experiencing significant stress or crisis.
• Ability to work with clients experiencing addiction, domestic violence, mental health conditions, homelessness, and/or other traumatic life experiences.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accurate, timely, and professional work.
• Resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to learn and grow in a challenging but highly rewarding area of practice. Additional Information
• This is NOT a remote position.
• Attorneys are expected to maintain court appearances and client meetings across various locations, including clients' homes, schools, or placements.
• Attorneys must be proactive and timely in maintaining case files, database systems (JCATS), and accurate reporting of mileage and time off.

To Apply:

Please submit your resume and cover letter detailing your interest and qualifications for this role to john@dependencyls.com

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

$100,000.00 - $135,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Employee assistance program Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Relocation assistance Vision insurance

Education:

Doctorate (Required)

License/Certification:

California State Bar License (Required)

Work Location:

In person