Job Details

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.