The Office of Public Advocacy is seeking to fill a non-attorney Guardian Ad Litem (GAL) position in the Palmer Civil Section. The Civil Section provides GAL representation for children when appointed by the court, primarily in child protection proceedings and private divorce/custody disputes. The GAL advocates for the best interests of the child and provides recommendations to the court to enable the court to make the best possible decision in the case. Daily work can include, court hearings, a variety of meetings, home visits, as well as report writing, and on-going investigations.
GALs are required to complete training and orientation. For a description of a GAL's duties, please refer to Alaska Child in Need of Aid Rule 11 and Alaska Civil Rule 90.7.
GALs in our section work independently while being a team player. Our section is a very congenial working environment. GALs have on-going support of a team attorney, members of their own team, other GALs, and their supervisor.
The selected candidate should have a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree in psychology, social work, education, nursing, law, or child related discipline and/or have an equivalent combination of training, education or experience.
To be successful in this position, a candidate will need to possess the following knowledge, skills, abilities, and experience:
Ability to gain proficiency, or proficiency in using relevant computer software programs and databases, specifically Microsoft Office Suite products;
An understanding and appreciation of different cultures and family situations;
Writing and oral advocacy skills;
The ability to develop a positive rapport with children, parents, social workers, tribal representatives, teachers, and other professionals and volunteers involved in children’s lives;
The ability to handle high conflict situations professionally and calmly;
Organization and time-management skills, including the ability to prioritize and manage a large and varied caseload;
An ability to gain a working knowledge of the Indian Child Welfare Act and state child-in-need-of-aid law, family law, and education law.
Please submit a resume and cover letter, which will serve as a preliminary writing sample, to:
Sergio Barron, Supervising Attorney/Attorney 5
[email protected]