Attorney-Department of Social Services

ATTORNEY-SOCIAL SERVICES

35 hour work week

NYS PENSION & LOAN FORGIVENESS

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS:  This is professional legal work involving responsibility for providing counsel to the Clinton County Department of Social Services and legal services.  An incumbent may also be responsible for prosecuting juvenile delinquents as well as persons in need of supervision (PINS).  Work is performed under the general direction of the Commissioner and the Senior Social Services Attorney in accordance with overall policies of the department with wide leeway for the exercise of independent judgment in applying legal knowledge to specific problems and in taking appropriate legal actions.  The incumbent does related work as required.

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES:  (Illustrative only) 

Acts as legal consultant to the Department of Social Services;

Represents the department in all proceedings including actions such as child abuse, child neglect, child support, foster care, and termination of parental rights;

Represents the department in adult protective proceedings;

Prepares all legal actions for negotiation and trial;

Prepares cases involving claims against the estates of decedents, those responsible for public assistance recipients, and against legally responsible living relatives;

Initiates suits against fraudulent recipients of welfare assistance;

Directs investigations and legal activities in paternity actions;

Acts as prosecuting attorney and performs the function of Grand Jury for all persons over the age of seven and under sixteen years of age who commit acts, which, if committed by an adult, would constitute a crime, with the exception of Juvenile Offenders as defined in the Penal Law;

Presents cases after diversion regarding persons in need of supervision (PINS) who are less than eighteen years    of age who are not in school or are incorrigible, ungovernable, or habitually disobedient and beyond the lawful control of a parent or other person legally responsible;

In cases involving juvenile offenders, makes appropriate referrals to, and cooperates with, the District Attorney;

Appellate practice, to include perfecting and finalizing appeals from Family Court and Supreme Court, as well as preparation of respondent’s briefs when appropriate.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:   Graduation from a law school recognized by the University of the State of New York.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENT FOR ACCEPTANCE OF APPLICATIONS:   A license to practice law in New York State.