Assistant Social Services Attorney

The Chautauqua County Department of Health & Human Services (DHHS) is seeking a New York State licensed Attorney to join its legal team. This position provides legal counsel and representation to DHHS and offers an opportunity to practice law while making a direct impact on children, families, and vulnerable individuals throughout Chautauqua County.

The Attorney works closely with the Commissioner, department leadership, caseworkers, community partners, and other County agencies. The position includes significant courtroom experience, particularly in Family Court, as well as legal research, document preparation, advising department staff, and handling matters involving New York State Social Services Law and related areas.

The position works under the supervision of the Social Services Attorney and/or another higher-ranking department attorney, with considerable opportunity to exercise independent professional judgment.

• Represent DHHS in Family Court proceedings involving child abuse and neglect, child and spousal support, custody and visitation, termination of parental rights, foster care permanency, and Qualified Residential Treatment Program matters.
• Represent the Commissioner in matters involving Persons in Need of Supervision (PINS) and certain juvenile delinquency proceedings.
• Provide legal guidance and advice to the Commissioner and DHHS staff.
• Prepare petitions, briefs, motions, contracts, assignments, deeds, notifications, and other legal documents.
• Conduct legal research involving Social Services Law, Public Health Law, County Law, and other applicable New York State laws.
• Represent the Department in Supreme Court proceedings involving adult abuse and neglect, guardianships, supplemental needs trusts, and related matters.
• Handle appeals arising from assigned cases.
• Represent the Department in administrative and fair hearing matters.
• Review and facilitate responses to discovery requests and requests for confidential Department records while ensuring compliance with applicable laws and court orders.
• Work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams involving County departments, law enforcement, service providers, and other community partners.
• Communicate with courts, attorneys, financial institutions, government agencies, and other parties on behalf of DHHS.
• Perform other related legal duties as required.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• The ability to effectively present legal arguments and represent the Department in court.
• Sound professional judgment and the ability to independently analyze legal issues.
• Strong legal research, writing, and organizational skills.
• The ability to work collaboratively with attorneys, caseworkers, County departments, courts, and outside agencies.
• Professionalism, integrity, discretion, tact, and a commitment to ethical legal practice.
• Knowledge of New York State laws affecting county government and social services is beneficial.

Possession of a license to practice law in New York State at the time of application, appointment, and throughout employment in this position.

Effective June 4, 2025, Chautauqua County Local Law 4-25 allows qualified candidates residing in a New York State county contiguous to Chautauqua County to be eligible for appointment to this title, subject to the provisions of the Local Law.

This position provides attorneys with the opportunity to develop substantial courtroom and legal experience while working on cases that directly affect individuals and families in the community.

If you're looking for a legal career that combines courtroom experience, meaningful public service, challenging legal work, and the opportunity to make a difference, we encourage you to apply and explore a career with Chautauqua County.

• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Loan forgiveness
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person