Attorney

The New Hanover County Department of Social Services is seeking an experienced Attorney to provide legal representation to the Social Services department in civil actions for the protection of children and disabled adults. The position advises Social Services personnel on legal rights and remedies in carrying out statutory responsibilities. Other duties include preparing and presenting child and adult protective services cases in court, drafting pleadings, court orders, and other legal documents; evaluating cases and providing consultation to staff; negotiating and consulting with attorneys, judicial officials, and others regarding cases and procedures; reviewing post adjudication case plans which include devising strategies to implement a safe, permanent home for children in custody of the agency at the earliest possible date; and advising the director and members of management on matters affecting the discharge of agency responsibility.

New Hanover County's Consolidated Human Services Agency is a single county agency that provides any combination of Public Health and Social Services throughout the county. The Social Services department is comprised of a team of dedicated professionals seeking to serve the citizens of our county through providing essential human services. The department is a part of a dynamic, professional county organization with a clear vision as a vibrant, prosperous, diverse coastal community, committed to building a sustainable future for generations to come. Ideal candidates for the department of social services have excellent customer service, organizational and computer skills, the ability to problem solve and make critical decisions and above all, an overwhelming desire to serve the citizens of our county.

New Hanover County is dedicated to the recruitment and recognition of a talented and diverse workforce that is committed to public service. Our shared values of professionalism, equity, innovation, integrity, stewardship, and accountability guide the way we conduct ourselves and deliver services to our customers. Supported by the work of our Office of Diversity and Equity, New Hanover County celebrates diversity in our employees backgrounds, beliefs, identities, and abilities, and supports equitable and inclusive policies and growth opportunities. Our talented team has a passion for providing care and services that effect change in the everyday lives of the citizens they encounter. The differences that unite us are a reflection of the community we serve. If this sounds like an organization that models the values you uphold, we invite you to join our team at New Hanover County.



Hours are 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday, with rotating after-hours coverage. Must be available to work during emergency situations.

Salary Information:
The hiring range for this position is $79,291 - $107,043. Salary will be determined based on qualifications, internal equity, budget, and market considerations. Bilingual candidates are eligible for a differential (5%) when performing Spanish language interpretation during the course of work.

New Hanover County offers:

• Employer paid 401k contributions;
• Retirement plan through the NC Retirement system;
• Flex time and telework availability, depending on your position;
• Paid sick and personal leave + 13 paid holidays per year;
• Paid parental leave;
• Paid community services leave to give back to our community;
• Education leave to obtain a degree within your line of work;
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance + many other insurance options;
• Onsite, employer-paid health and wellness center;
• Professional development trainings & leadership initiatives;
• Opportunities to make a difference in your community;
• And so much more!

Please check out our careers page at www.nhcgov.com/careers for more information on why New Hanover County is a great place to work. Required Education and Experience:

• North Carolina State Bar License
• Juris Doctorate from a law school accredited by the American Association of Law Schools
• Two (2) years experience practicing law in child welfare or related field

What will make your application stand out:

• Bilingual in English and Spanish is desired
• Prior experience working for local, federal, or state government
• Prior experience working with a department of social services

Required Licenses/Certifications:

• Valid Driver's License and good driving record required at time of application.
• Valid North Carolina Drivers License required by first date of employment with good driving record.

Closing Date:

This position is open until filled, however, priority consideration will be given to applications received by Friday, March 29, 2024.


Applicant Information:
After the closing date for this position, applications will be screened by Human Resources. Applicants referred to the department will receive an email requesting important information pertinent to the position applied for. All updates regarding an application can be viewed through your applicant portal.