Staff Attorney

Job DescriptionPosition OverviewThe Staff Attorney in the Legal Division represents the Agency in a legal capacity under the direction of the Assistant Director or Managing Attorney. This role involves handling child support enforcement matters, including establishing, modifying, and enforcing support orders. The position requires appearing in various courts (including but not limited to Common Pleas, Municipal, Probate, and Federal Bankruptcy Court), preparing legal documents, conducting research, negotiating settlements, and providing legal guidance to agency staff. The attorney also manages case preparation, witness coordination, and ensures compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and procedures.ResponsibilitiesPosition ResponsibilitiesRepresent the Agency in court hearings, administrative proceedings, and related legal mattersHandle child support cases, including establishing, enforcing, collecting, and modifying support ordersAppear in various courts, including Common Pleas, Municipal, Probate, and Federal Bankruptcy CourtPrepare and manage cases for hearings and trials, including evidence review and case strategyDraft legal documents such as pleadings, motions, petitions, and ordersConduct legal research and prepare briefs, opinions, and case summariesInterview, prepare, and coordinate witnesses; conduct and attend depositionsNegotiate settlements with opposing counsel or parties and prepare related legal agreementsProcess criminal cases (misdemeanor and felony) related to child support enforcementProvide legal guidance and support to agency staff and other departmentsRespond to legal inquiries from internal staff, government entities, and service recipientsInterpret and apply applicable laws, regulations, and policiesAssist with reporting requirements, including providing data for statistical reportsPerform other related legal duties as assignedQualificationsMinimum QualificationsGraduate of an accredited law schoolAdmission to the Ohio Bar (per ORC 4705.01)Ability to communicate professionally with staff and clientsAbility to meet court deadlines and prepare timely legal entriesAbility to draft legal documents such as motions, petitions, and ordersBasic knowledge of the judicial system, civil procedures, and relevant lawsUnderstanding of laws and regulations related to agency operations