At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide legal counsel and represent the department in court for social services.
- Company: Cleveland County Department of Social Services, committed to public welfare.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive work environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a diverse team dedicated to serving the community and ensuring legal compliance.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives through impactful legal work.
- Qualifications: Juris Doctor and at least 1 year of legal experience required.
The predicted salary is between 84786 - 110222 £ per year.
The Staff Attorney will act as legal counsel for the Cleveland County Department of Social Services, providing a full spectrum of legal services. The role involves interpreting laws and regulations, advising internal stakeholders, representing the department in legal proceedings, and ensuring legal compliance across operations. This position supports the agency’s mission of delivering critical social services within the legal framework of North Carolina.
Key Responsibilities
- Represent the department in courtroom and administrative proceedings, including appellate litigation.
- Handle legal caseloads related to juvenile matters, adult welfare, and child support enforcement.
- Draft petitions, motions, appeals, and court orders.
- Collaborate with paralegals in order drafting and document review.
- Offer legal training to department staff on court procedures.
- Advise the Department Director on policy and internal training.
- Provide legal guidance to the Social Services Advisory Board.
- Act as backup counsel across different courts as needed.
- Perform other related legal duties as assigned.
Supervisory Duties
This role may involve supervision of staff within the Department of Social Services, including paralegals. Responsibilities include team management, training, recruitment, performance monitoring, disciplinary action, and ensuring adherence to policies and legal standards.
Education & Experience Requirements
- Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school.
- Minimum of 1 year of professional legal experience.
Required Skills & Abilities
- Strong understanding of administrative and constitutional law.
- In-depth knowledge of the organizational structure of North Carolina county governments.
- Ability to interpret and apply legal principles to public sector operations.
- Proficiency in drafting legal documents, opinions, and legislative proposals.
- Strong courtroom communication and advocacy skills.
- Capacity to build and maintain professional relationships with courts and public officials.
- Thorough knowledge of North Carolina General Statutes.
Licensing & Certifications
- Must be licensed to practice law in North Carolina.
- Valid driver’s license and insurable driving record required.
Work Environment & Physical Demands
Regular exertion of up to 10 lbs, occasionally up to 25 lbs. Tasks may include sitting, standing, walking, using hands, speaking, hearing, and motor vehicle operation. Standard vision and auditory abilities required. Work location is fixed at the department with travel as necessary. Any location changes must be approved by HR and the Supervisor.
Equal Employment Opportunity
Cleveland County is committed to a workplace free from discrimination. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran status, or other protected statuses, in compliance with applicable laws.
Emergency Response Requirement
As part of the Health and Human Services Department, this position may be required to assist during state emergencies, as defined under General Statute 166A-19.3, including natural disasters, public health crises, and other emergencies.
Application & Selection Process
- Application Deadline: July 7, 2025
- Application Method: Apply online via www.clevelandcounty.com
- Selection Process: Structured interview following application review
- Note: Position subject to pre-employment drug screening and background checks
Salary Range
$84,786 – $110,222 (Based on experience)
Job Details
- Type: Full-Time
- Department: Department of Social Services
- Posted: June 17, 2025
- Application Deadline: July 7, 2025
- Contact Email: michelle.weathers@clevelandcountync.gov
Staff Attorney — Public Welfare & Appellate Litigation in Tipton employer: Canon Sphere
Cleveland County Department of Social Services is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being of its staff while delivering vital social services to the community. With a strong commitment to professional development, employees benefit from opportunities for legal training and mentorship, fostering a collaborative work culture that values diversity and inclusion. Located in North Carolina, this role not only offers competitive salaries but also the chance to make a meaningful impact in the lives of residents through public welfare and appellate litigation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Staff Attorney — Public Welfare & Appellate Litigation in Tipton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the legal field, especially those connected to public welfare and appellate litigation. Attend local events or join online forums to make connections that could lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your courtroom communication skills. Practice articulating your understanding of North Carolina laws and how they apply to social services. We want you to shine when discussing your experience and how it aligns with the role!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your legal drafting skills! Bring along samples of petitions, motions, or appeals you've worked on. This will demonstrate your proficiency and give interviewers a taste of what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Staff Attorney — Public Welfare & Appellate Litigation in Tipton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of Staff Attorney. We want to see how you can interpret laws and provide legal counsel specifically for public welfare and appellate litigation.
Showcase Your Legal Writing Skills:Since drafting petitions, motions, and appeals is a big part of this job, include examples of your legal writing in your application. We love seeing clear, concise, and persuasive writing that demonstrates your proficiency in legal documentation.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Don’t forget to mention any experience you have with juvenile matters, adult welfare, or child support enforcement. We’re looking for someone who understands the nuances of these areas, so make it clear how your background fits!
Apply Through Our Website:Remember, the best way to apply is through our website at www.clevelandcounty.com. It’s straightforward and ensures your application gets to the right place. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Canon Sphere
✨Know Your Legal Stuff
Make sure you brush up on North Carolina General Statutes and administrative law. Being able to discuss specific laws and how they apply to the role will show that you're not just familiar with the legal landscape, but that you can navigate it effectively.
✨Showcase Your Advocacy Skills
Prepare to demonstrate your courtroom communication and advocacy skills. Think of examples from your past experiences where you successfully represented a client or department, and be ready to discuss how you handled challenges in those situations.
✨Understand the Department's Mission
Familiarise yourself with the Cleveland County Department of Social Services and its mission. Be prepared to discuss how your legal expertise can support their goals, especially in areas like juvenile matters and child support enforcement.
✨Be Ready for Team Dynamics
Since this role may involve supervising staff, think about your leadership style and how you would manage a team. Prepare examples of how you've trained or mentored others in the past, and be ready to discuss how you would foster collaboration within the department.
