Job Details

Under the general direction of the Chief Judge, the Friend of the Court will be responsible for overseeing various domestic relations and family law matters, including investigative, enforcement, and administrative duties related to child support, custody, visitation, and other domestic management issues. The position ensures compliance with court orders and statutory requirements, directs the activities of multiple divisions within the office, and may perform direct investigative or enforcement tasks.

Key Responsibilities:

• Enforcement of Court Orders: Direct the enforcement of child support, custody, and visitation orders, ensuring timely enforcement, modifications, income withholding, or contempt proceedings when necessary.
• Office Oversight: Coordinate and direct the activities of all divisions within the Friend of the Court office, ensuring efficient service and compliance with court rules and state laws.
• Financial Management: Oversee the collection, recording, and disbursement of support payments and service fees. Manage financial accounting systems and ensure proper maintenance of financial records, including suspense accounts.
• Budget Management: Manage contracts, resources, and billings within the set budget, including the CRP (Child Recovery Program) contracts.
• Investigations: Conduct home investigations in contested custody, child support, and visitation matters, as well as investigations regarding changes in custody or domicile.
• Conciliation and Mediation: Facilitate conciliatory conferences (FIG) to prepare interim orders for custody, child support, and visitation. Provide mediation services when requested by the court.
• Policy Development: In collaboration with the Chief Judge, establish policies and procedures to ensure the enforcement of Circuit Court orders related to child support, custody, and visitation.
• Administrative Duties: Prepare stipulated orders based on agreements between parties and ensure accurate documentation of court processes and decisions.
• Training and Development: Attend relevant training and conferences to stay current with best practices and legal requirements in family law and court administration.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in social sciences, education, or a related field; Juris Doctorate preferred.
• Relevant experience in family law, social services, or a related field.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to relate effectively with the public.
• Proficiency in a variety of software applications.
• Knowledge of court procedures, domestic relations, and statutory requirements is an asset.

Salary:

• $45,000 annually (with an increase effective January 1, 2025)