Job Description
Attorney develops evidence, strategies, and tactics to litigate a wide range of cases that may involve license revocations, license application denials, and employee and licensee exclusion actions. Attorney works with licensing clients, witnesses and victims, medical staff, qualified experts, investigators, criminal prosecutors, law enforcement personnel, and others in order to effectively prosecute complex and sophisticated cases including child maltreatment and elder abuse. As such, Attorney develops expertise in the application of evidentiary rules, hearsay exception statutes, and other trial-related theory. Attorney must also be adept at facilitating settlements and negotiating stipulations where appropriate.
The Legal Division?s offices provide a dynamic and collegial environment in which its attorneys enjoy the satisfaction of public service and the rewards of conducting important work. Its attorneys should be self-motivated, possess strong interpersonal communication skills and demonstrate excellent analytical abilities. Opportunities for advancement exist as Attorneys may compete for promotion to the Attorney III rank or seek management opportunities within the Legal Division. Travel may be required for hearings and to meet with clients and/or witnesses as needed. The Attorney position is eligible for a regular remote-centered telework schedule. Telework may be allowable based on operational needs for employees who can perform their essential functions remotely and/or whose duties are conducive to teleworking per the CDSS Telework Program Guidelines. The incumbent will need to report to the Monterey Park office location when in the office.
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You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement.
Working Conditions
This position is eligible for hybrid work in accordance with the Governor?s Executive Order N-22-25 and at the sole discretion of the Department of Social Services under California Government Code Section 14200. All telework schedules are subject to change and may be re-evaluated at any time. The incumbent will be expected to report for in office work and attend work related in-person events as deemed operationally necessary. Telework does not change the terms and conditions of employment, the essential functions of job duties, or required compliance with the CDSS policies. Headquarter location may be designated on the selected candidate's primary residence location, and/or the closest CDSS location in accordance with operational need and available space. The successful candidate must reside in California upon appointment.
Minimum Requirements
You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.- ATTORNEY
Additional Documents
- Job Application Package Checklist
- Duty Statement
Position Details
Department Information
Are you interested in making a difference in the lives of fellow Californians while achieving your career goals? Do you set high standards for yourself and enjoy a collaborative and challenging work environment? The mission of the California Department of Social Services is to serve, protect, and support the people of California experiencing need in ways that empower wellbeing and disrupt systemic inequities. The vision of the California Department of Social Services is to provide quality services with a commitment to an inclusive, diverse, and equitable California where all people can thrive.
The California Department of Social Services? Mission is to serve, aid, and protect needy and vulnerable children and adults in ways that strengthen and preserve families, encourage personal responsibility, and foster independence. CDSS values diversity at all levels of the organization and is committed to fostering an environment in which employees and partners from a variety of backgrounds, cultures, and personal experiences are welcomed and can thrive. We believe the diversity of our employees and our partners bring their unique ideas and perspectives that inspire innovative solutions to further our mission. Embark on a career path filled with purpose and fulfillment surrounded by a team of dedicated legal professionals in a collaborative, dynamic environment.
CDSS Guiding Principles
Diversity. Equity. Inclusion. Accessibility. Belonging.
We ensure opportunities for everyone to participate in a meaningful way in fulfilling the mission and vision of CDSS.
Community Engagement
We prioritize the lived experiences of community members as a driving force behind the creation, implementation, desired impact, or change of programs and services.
Empowerment
We engage, operate, and advocate from the understanding that each community and person has desires and capabilities to lead in their own life.
Quality Services
We provide services that align intent and impact by ensuring that they are accessible, community driven, interconnected, and continuously improved.
Data Defined Outcomes
We equitably collect and analyze data, take data-driven action, and measure outcomes relevant to those we serve, ensuring transparency and accountability.
Special Requirements
- The position(s) require(s) a Background Investigation be cleared prior to being hired.
Applicants must be current members of the California State Bar. Selected candidates will be subject to a criminal record background check clearance by the Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Hiring is subject to state civil service Super SROA/Surplus policies and procedures.
This position is designated under the Conflict-of-Interest Code.
You are required to complete employment history on the application form (STD 678). You may be disqualified from the hiring and selection process if the employment history is inaccurate or incomplete. Resumes will not take the place of employment history.
Training and Development assignments may be considered based on the availability of eligible candidates and are subject to approval by the Hiring Authority prior to appointment. Training and Development assignments are temporary in nature and shall not exceed twenty-four (24) months.
Candidates who reside outside of the State of California may be admitted to the job interview, but they must provide proof of residence in California prior to being eligible for appointment.
Application Instructions
Completed applications and all required documents must be received or postmarked by the Final Filing Date in order to be considered. Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are not considered Postmark dates for the purpose of determining timely filing of an application.
Final Filing Date: 9/2/2025Who May Apply
Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).
How To Apply
Address for Mailing Application Packages
You may submit your application and any applicable or required documents to:
Address for Drop-Off Application Packages
You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:
Required Application Package Documents
The following items are required to be submitted with your application. Applicants who do not submit the required items timely may not be considered for this job:
- Current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678 (when not applying electronically), or the Electronic State Employment Application through your Applicant Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. All Experience and Education relating to the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification should be included to demonstrate how you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position.
- Resume is required and must be included.
- Other - Cover Letter
Benefits
TRANSPORTATION REIMBURSEMENT
- Public transit (mass transit) passes.
- 100 percent discount on public transit passes sold by state agencies, up to the monthly exclusion amount provided by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
- 100 percent reimbursement on public transit passes purchased by state employees, up to the monthly exclusion amount provided by the IRS.
- Vanpool drivers and riders
- 100 percent reimbursement on the monthly fee, up to the monthly exclusion amount provided by the IRS.
Benefit information can be found on the CalHR website and the CalPERS website.
Contact Information
The Hiring Unit Contact is available to answer questions regarding the position or application process.
Hiring U