I. PURPOSE AND SUMMARY
The law firm of Hopp Neumann Humke LLP serves as Corporation Counsel for Sheboygan County. We are seeking an associate attorney interested in representing the interests of the public in legal proceedings to prosecute Chapter 48 cases for children alleged to be in need of protection or services (CHIPS), juvenile guardianships, and termination of parental rights. This individual will work closely with the Sheboygan County Health and Human Services Department (HHSD) in evaluating cases and will spend a significant amount of time in the courtroom.
II. ESSENTIAL DUTIES
- Carry out and direct all legal matters related to the commencement and prosecution of CHIPs cases, juvenile guardianships and termination of parental rights cases (collectively HHSD cases). Perform other duties as may be assigned by Corporation Counsel.
- Draft, approve, and sign all pleadings, motions, orders, judgments, and legal documents necessary to the prosecution of HHSD cases.
- Appear in all court proceedings concerning HHSD cases.
- Engage in case preparation, including discovery such as interrogatories, requests for admissions, and depositions, and other similar activities.
- Provide legal advice, direction, and training to HHSD case supervisors and managers, social workers, investigators, and support personnel.
- Correspond and negotiate with other attorneys and parties to pending HHSD cases.
- Prepare and revise legal forms for use by HHSD in HHSD cases.
- Research and write legal memoranda and briefs as ordered by the trial or appellate court.
- Maintain familiarity with the current law pertaining to the Children's Code, including CHIPs cases, juvenile guardianships, and termination of parental rights cases.
III. QUALIFICATIONS
This position requires an active license to practice law in the State of Wisconsin.
Experience with CHIPs cases, juvenile guardianships, and termination of parental rights cases is preferred.
IV. WORKING RELATIONSHIPS
The person hired will need to be able to successfully interact and work with County and law firm staff, members of the public, law enforcement, court officials and staff, and adverse counsel.
V. WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Work is performed primarily in a standard office setting. Ability to frequently lift up to 20 pounds and a combination of sitting and standing postures may be required. Ability to lift up to 40 pounds on an infrequent basis. Ability to regularly work 8 hour days and 40 hour weeks is required.
Must be able to operate standard office equipment including but not limited to, telephone, computer, facsimile, calculator, printer, photocopier, and scanner.
VI. SALARY AND BENEFITS
Salary is commensurate with experience. We offer a 401(k) contribution, group health insurance, life insurance, and paid vacation and holidays. We also cover memberships to the State Bar of Wisconsin and Sheboygan County Bar Association as well as legal malpractice insurance and continuing legal education credits.
Send cover letter and resumé to dianne.hohenstern@hopplaw.com.
