Friend of the Court - Attorney Referee

Attorney Referee - $86,197 - $115,512/ Year - Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance - Life Insurance - Paid Time Off - Pension Plan Duties: - Conducts hearings in domestic relations cases related to custody, parenting time, child support, temporary matters, and other matters involving children; issues findings and recommendations. - Conducts preliminary, adjudication, dispositional and progress hearings in delinquency and child protective proceedings. - Swears in and examines witnesses; takes testimony; hears arguments; decides motions and objections; reconciles conflicting testimony; makes findings of fact; draws conclusions of law; and renders decisions. - Prepares and reviews Orders prior to submission to the judges. Serves as Legal Counsel to the Director of the Office of the Friend of the Court and staff. - Advises judges and court staff as requested. - Operates video and audio equipment for the recording of all court hearings conducted. - Retrieves and enters data into various computer systems. - Trains, assists, and coordinates in-service training with staff. Represents the Courts in dealings with other governmental and private agencies. - Interacts with organizations, associations, and community groups to explain the purpose, role, and procedure of the Courts. - Contributes to the preparation and maintenance of a procedure manual and appropriate forms. - Participates in the development of internal policies, procedures, rules, regulations and goals and objectives as they relate to the Courts' matters. - Assists in implementing new statutes, rules, and procedures dictated by the Legislature, Appellate Courts, and Court Rules in accordance with the decisions of the Supreme Court and/or the State Court Administrative Office. - 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. 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. - Preferred qualifications include a minimum of five (5) years of full-time, paid experience practicing law in a trial court setting, or at least three (3) years of prior experience serving as an Attorney Referee in the Circuit, Juvenile, or Probate Court. - Candidates with less experience or a combination of legal experience in other settings may also be considered. Special Requirements: - A legal writing sample must accompany application for the position. - Attorney Referees must complete training courses offered by the Michigan Judicial Institute and as required by their Judges and/or the Court's Administrator. - Must possess and maintain a valid vehicle operator's license throughout the course of employment. - Candidate must successfully pass a pre-employment physical, including drug testing prior to employment. - A background check will be performed, and employees will be fingerprinted. - Subject to random alcohol and drug testing per the Court's policy. - Handles on-call responsibilities on a rotating basis with other Attorney Referees. Required Knowledge and Skills: Knowledge of courtroom operations and procedures, including the ability to conduct specific hearings. Familiar with agencies within Berrien County that serve the Courts' clients. Clear understanding of criminal, civil, juvenile, and family law, statutes, court rule