Assistant Solicitor

Assistant Solicitor -- Somerset County Children & Youth Services

Full-Time | Contract Position

Somerset County Children & Youth Services is seeking a dedicated and knowledgeable Assistant Solicitor to provide legal representation, guidance, and support for the agency. This full-time contract position plays a crucial role in ensuring the agency's legal compliance and supporting child welfare operations within Somerset County.

Position Summary

The Assistant Solicitor provides legal counsel and representation to Somerset County Children & Youth Services, handling legal matters related to child dependency, termination of parental rights, adoption, child abuse expunction, and related proceedings. Duties include advising agency staff, representing the agency in court, interpreting statutes and regulations, and supporting systemic legal needs for the Office of Children & Youth Services.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide legal advice to agency administration, supervisors, and staff regarding laws and procedures affecting child welfare operations
• Represent the agency in hearings before the Court of Common Pleas and appellate courts as needed, including:
• Child dependency proceedings
• Termination of parental rights
• Adoption matters
• Child support
• Child abuse expunction hearings
• Foster care licensing appeal hearings before the Department of Human Services in Pittsburgh
• Prepare for contested hearings, including case conferences with caseworkers prior to court
• Interpret relevant laws, rulings, and regulations for agency staff (Juvenile Act, CPSL, Adoption Act, Interstate Compact, federal/state regulations)
• Provide legal training and guidance to caseworkers on court processes and legal compliance
• Assist the agency and courts with systemic legal issues and improvements
• Remain available outside regular working hours for legal emergencies
• Collaborate with agency leadership and follow procedural channels for communication
• Utilize agency-provided paralegal support as needed for case preparation and documentation

Minimum Qualifications

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with a degree in law
• Licensed to practice law in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
• Knowledge of:
• Pennsylvania Juvenile Act
• Child Protective Services Law
• Pennsylvania Adoption Act
• Interstate Compact
• Relevant federal and state regulations pertaining to child welfare and agency operations

Compensation & Benefits

• Full-time contract position
• Starting Salary: $65,000--$70,000
• Health Insurance Plan
• Pension Plan

Work Environment

• Office space, equipment, and materials provided by the agency
• Reasonable accommodations available for qualified individuals with disabilities
• All inquiries and procedural communications must follow agency structure and grievance procedures

How to Apply

Interested candidates should e-mail a cover letter, resume, and supporting documentation to:

Somerset County Human Resources Director, Michelle Graham

or visit our website at select "Job Openings"