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Berrien County Friend of the Court - Attorney Referee in St Joseph, Michigan

Attorney Referee

  • $81,407 - $109,093/ Year
  • Full Benefits Package

Education and Experience:

  • Graduation from ABA accredited law school.
  • Admission to the practice of law in the State of Michigan and in good standing with the State Bar.
  • Minimum of five years of paid, full-time trial court experience in the practice of law or three years of experience as an Attorney Referee in the Circuit, Juvenile or Probate Court.

Additional Requirements:

  • A legal writing sample must accompany application for this position.
  • Must possess a valid vehicle operator's license.
  • A pre-employment physical, drug test and background check are required before employment.
  • Will be fingerprinted and screened for any conduct prejudicial to the administration of justice before employment.
  • May be subject to random drug and alcohol testing during the course of employment.
  • Must complete training courses offered by the Michigan Judicial Institute and as required.

Required Skills and Knowledge:

  • Thorough understanding of the criminal justice system, law, courtroom operations and the State of Michigan Motor Vehicle Code.
  • Able to conduct specific hearings; maintain records and reports; conduct legal research; prepare succinct opinions; and provide in-service training.
  • Familiar with agencies within Berrien County that serve the Courts' clients.
  • Proficient in the use of computers and standard office software.
  • Able to communicate clearly both orally and in writing.

Duties:

  • Conducts hearings associated with the Friend of the Court, domestic and child welfare arraignments, delinquency, protective proceedings and traffic cases referred/petitioned to the Juvenile Court.
  • Conducts hearings related to Temporary Orders in divorce cases, contested evidentiary hearings and other matters affecting property or children.
  • Makes decisions concerning custody; visitation and support; and release and placement.
  • Determines appropriate programs and services for youth and their families and makes necessary referrals.
  • Conducts complex legal research and prepares legal memorandum.
  • Prepares recommendations and orders for the signature and/or approval of the Judge.
  • Issues findings and recommendations on all aspects of domestic relations cases.
  • Serves as Legal Counsel to the Director of the Friend of the Court office and staff.
  • Trains, assists and coordinates in-service training with staff.
  • Receives and reviews reports and petitions from the Department of Human Services, Michigan State Police, County Sheriff's Department and municipal police departments received from the Prosecuting Attorney's Office.
  • Diverts appropriate cases to public or private agencies.
  • May be assigned to assist in the supervision of volunteers and student interns assigned to the Courts.
  • Provides after hours coverage, weekend and holiday assistance to the police agencies, Friend of the Court, the Juvenile Center, Prosecuting Attorney's Office, and Department of Human Services.
  • This description is intended to illustrate the type and level of work being performed by persons assigned to this job. It may not be a comprehensive list of all duties and responsibilities required by a person so classified.
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