ATTORNEY

Children’s Law Center of California (CLC) is the largest children’s legal services organization in the nation, advocating for over 25,000 children and youth in the Los Angeles, Sacramento & Placer County foster care systems. CLC is a nonprofit, public interest law firm providing legal representation for thousands of children and youth, from ages 0 to 21, who are impacted by abuse and neglect. We are an inclusive and diverse team of over 600 lawyers, social work investigators, peer advocates, and support staff that work to ensure all of California’s children have an opportunity to success through direct legal representation and multidisciplinary advocacy.

We’re looking for powerful leading voices who aren’t afraid to fight for our clients and advocate for family reunification, permanence, educational opportunity, health & mental health services, self-sufficiency and overall well-being. If you are fiercely dedicated to child welfare system reform and supporting our clients in the dependency counsel, Children’s Law Center of California might be the place for you. 

Your Impact on the Mission – Excellence in Advocacy

● Perform comprehensive, ongoing and independent investigations & interviews throughout all phases of the proceedings on behalf of the client.

● Provide guidance to clients on their legal rights, the legal process and decisions related to child placement; conduct initial assessments of potential conflicts of interest.

● Analyze facts considering relevant legal consideration, prepare litigation strategy, prepare legal memoranda, motions & briefs, and argue specific legal motions & pleadings.

● Demonstrate sensitivity & awareness of cultural differences to effectively communicate & advocate for clients from diverse backgrounds. Ensure that all clients receive fair & unbiased legal representation, regardless of their background or circumstances.

● Collaborate closely with CLC colleagues: social workers, case managers and supporting staff.

● Continuous Learning – engaging in ongoing education & training to stay informed about evolving issues related to diversity, equity and inclusion in the legal field & child welfare system.

● Performs other related duties as assigned. 

The Assets You Possess

● Prior experience in dependency law or trial experience preferred.

● Interest & proficiency in working with children & youth in diverse communities.

● Ability to effectively and respectfully communicate with children, teens, their families and caregivers.

● Maintain professional & effective relationships with court personnel, coworkers & other CLC attorneys.

● Have an inclusive, deeply human approach to client’s wellbeing.

● Ability to convey legal arguments logically and effectively in oral & written form.

Essential Qualifications

● Juris Doctor Degree & a member in good standing of the State Bar of California.

● Knowledge of substantive & procedural dependency law and trial practice skills.

• Must have a valid driver’s license, reliable automobile & automobile insurance. 

BENEFITS & COMPENSATION

The pay range for this position is $88,510 to $137,889, based on relevant experience as determined by CLC. CLC offers an excellent benefits package including 15 PTO days and 12 sick days in the first year, an up to 6% employer-matched retirement plan, and generous Family and Medical Leave and health care plans.

A detailed cover letter indicating why you are interested in and qualified for this position is required. Resumes submitted without a cover letter will not be considered.

CLC values diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect for all individuals in the workplace. We recognize the importance of a culturally diverse workforce across all job classifications, and encourage candidates with diverse backgrounds, lived experiences, and perspectives to apply. CLC is committed to inclusive practices in recruitment, hiring, promotion, and retention.

A valid California driver’s license, reliable automobile, and auto insurance required while working for Children’s Law Center.