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Dependency Attorney Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

$90K - $140K/yr

... dependency on external vendors and outside counsel, increase transparency, and create scalable ... They will be expected to work directly with attorneys, compliance professionals, operations teams ...

Dependency Attorney information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a dependency attorney?

To thrive as a Dependency Attorney, you need a Juris Doctor degree, bar admission, and strong knowledge of child welfare law and court procedures. Familiarity with case management systems, legal research databases (like Westlaw or LexisNexis), and relevant state-specific regulations is essential. Exceptional communication, negotiation, and empathy are key soft skills for effectively representing clients—often children or parents—in emotionally charged cases. These skills are crucial for ensuring fair legal representation, supporting vulnerable clients, and navigating complex family court proceedings.

What is the difference between Dependency Attorney vs Family Law Attorney?

AspectDependency AttorneyFamily Law Attorney
CredentialsJurisdiction-specific law degree, bar license, specialized training in dependency lawLaw degree, bar license, specialization in family law often including dependency cases
Work EnvironmentCourts, child welfare agencies, legal clinicsCourts, law firms, private practice, legal clinics
Employer & IndustryChild welfare agencies, government legal departmentsPrivate law firms, government agencies, courts
Search & Comparison IntentDependency Attorney vs Family Law Attorney

Dependency Attorneys specialize in representing children and families involved in child welfare cases, focusing on dependency law. Family Law Attorneys handle a broader range of family-related legal issues, including divorce, custody, and adoption. While both roles require similar legal credentials and often work in related environments, Dependency Attorneys focus specifically on child welfare cases within the legal system.

What are some of the unique challenges faced by dependency attorneys, and how can new hires best prepare for them?

Dependency attorneys often manage high caseloads involving sensitive family situations, including child abuse or neglect cases. The role requires balancing advocacy for clients with the best interests of the child, which can be emotionally demanding. New hires should be prepared for frequent court appearances, collaboration with social workers, and rapidly evolving case details. Building strong organizational skills, maintaining emotional resilience, and seeking mentorship from experienced colleagues can help navigate these challenges effectively.

What is a dependency attorney?

A Dependency Attorney is a lawyer who represents parties involved in dependency court cases, which address issues of child abuse, neglect, or abandonment. They may represent parents, children, or other interested parties in proceedings where the state intervenes to protect a child's welfare. Their primary role is to advocate for their client's interests, ensure due process is followed, and help navigate the complexities of child welfare law. Dependency Attorneys work closely with social workers, judges, and other legal professionals to secure safe and appropriate outcomes for children.
What are popular job titles related to Dependency Attorney jobs in Oregon? For Dependency Attorney jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Oregon are hiring for Dependency Attorney jobs? Cities in Oregon with the most Dependency Attorney job openings:
Infographic showing various Dependency Attorney job openings in Oregon as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Assistant Attorney General (Child Advocacy & Protection Division)

Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife

Pendleton, OR • Hybrid

$9.0K - $17K/mo

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


Oregon Youth Authority rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

56th of 844 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Initial Posting Date:

07/16/2026

Application Deadline:

08/09/2026

Agency:

Department of Justice

Salary Range:

$9,063 - $17,597

Position Type:

Employee

Position Title:

Assistant Attorney General (Child Advocacy & Protection Division)

Job Description:

Child Advocacy and Protection Division

The Oregon Department of Justice (DOJ) is seeking self-motivated individuals to consider for the position ofAssistant Attorney General in the Child Advocacy and Protection Division (CAPD). This position may be based in Portland or Pendleton with opportunities for a hybrid remote work schedule.Frequent travel to court and client offices in Eastern Oregon will be required. CAPD attorneys are responsible for providing comprehensive legal advice and litigation services to the Oregon Department of Human Services Child Welfare Program (ODHS) in all phases of juvenile dependency and termination of parental rights cases.CAPD attorneys work closely with ODHS regarding child safety and to improve outcomes for children and families in child abuse and neglect cases. Attorneys must effectively balance providing legal advice with frequent court appearances, from short hearings to multi-day complex trials.This position also requires the ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment.

This litigation-focused position requires significant time in the court, strong organizational skills, attention to detail and the ability to work collaboratively with agency-client representatives and internal support staff teams. You would join a close-knit team of dedicated professionals who share a passion for this important and meaningful work and enjoy making a difference in their communities.

Questions may be directed to Chief Counsel Joanne Southey at joanne.southey@doj.oregon.gov or Deputy Chief Counsel Rahela Rehman at rahela.rehman@doj.oregon.gov.In an ongoing effort to attract and retain diverse candidates, we are hopeful you'll share our recruitment with members of your association, organization, or section members.We are available by phone or email if you have questions.

Required Experience

  • Active membership in good standing with the Oregon State Bar or reciprocity actively pending.

  • Minimum of one year of practical legal experience in dependency practice, delinquency, family law or litigating criminal matters within the past five years.

  • The successful candidate for this position must pass a Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) fingerprint-based background check and maintain CJIS eligibility.

  • Demonstrated oral advocacy proficiency.

  • Practical knowledge of the Oregon Rules of Evidence or successful completion of law school Evidence course.

  • Willingness and availability to travel, including overnight stays-must have valid driver's license.

  • Must be able to independently transport substantial amount of hearing or trial materials to court and client offices.

Desired Experience

  • Familiarity and experience with Oregon juvenile dependency law.

  • Demonstrated expertise with managing a high-volume workload.

  • Demonstrated ability to balance administrative obligations, advice requirements and fast paced litigation practice.

  • Experience working in a team supported environment.

  • Demonstrated ability to effectively work with clients and opposing counsel.

Additional applicant screening will depend on the number of qualified applications received. Applicants most closely matching the requirements and needs of the position will be invited to interview. If you are selected to interview and require particular accommodationduring the interview, please inform the person scheduling the interview.

Application Process

Diversity is a core value of the Oregon Department of Justice. We are working to build and maintain an inclusive and equitable work environment. Every employee expands our diversity by contributing to the range of ways to understand and communicate with one another, identify challenges, and work cooperatively.

  • Follow the "Apply" link above and complete the application online and all supplemental questions;

  • Attach your resume;

  • Attach your cover letter (detailing how you meet the job requirements); and

  • Attach your writing sample suitable for assessing analytical and writing ability. A writing sample is not needed from attorneys currently working at the Oregon Department of Justice at the time of application. However, a copy may be requested at a later date if needed.

This OAJA-represented position will be filled at either the Assistant Attorney General or Senior Assistant Attorney General level, salary range $9,063.00 - $17,597.00 per month, depending primarily on years of legal practice experience and other factors. Employees who are Public Employee Retirement System (PERS) participating members will have their base salary increased by 6.95% and pay a 6% employee contribution to PERS; the salary range noted reflects base salary only. For a partial list of our benefits, you can learn here.

ALL APPLICANTS: You will only have one opportunity to upload the required resume and cover letter. Drag and drop both resume and cover letter into Workday when prompted to upload your resume. If you are concerned that one or both requested documents didn't attach to your application, if you need an accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), have questions, or need assistance with the application process, please contact doj.recruitment@doj.oregon.gov. Any materials emailed will be associated on your behalf if received before the posting deadline.

CURRENT STATE EMPLOYEES: Login to Workday using your state-issued login and apply via the Jobs Hub Worklet located on your home page. Using a private account disrupts the hiring process for all internal candidates.

The Department of Justice

The Mission of the Oregon Department of Justice is to serve state government and to support safe and healthy communities throughout Oregon by providing essential justice services.Its over 1,600 employees in ten divisions, includingnearly 400 lawyers, are dedicated to the rule of law and serving the people of Oregon and its government.

The Attorney General and our ten divisions are dedicated to:

  • Providing ethical, independent and high quality legal services to state government;

  • Safeguarding consumers from fraud and unfair business practices;

  • Fighting crime and helping crime victims;

  • Advocating for vulnerable children;

  • Supporting families through the collection of child support;

  • Enforcing environmental protections;

  • Defending the civil rights of all Oregonians;

  • Pursuing justice and upholding the rule of law.

Working for the Department of Justice
Assistant Attorneys General, on behalf of the Attorney General, represent the State of Oregon and state-elected and appointed officials, agencies, boards and commissions in most civil and many criminal proceedings. The Department offers a broad range of opportunities for attorneys to work on significant and complex issues that face our state and make a difference to the citizens of Oregon while providing unparalleled career satisfaction and professional prospects.


Conduct Expectations
The role of the Oregon Department of Justice is to provide justice and uphold the rule of law. Employees of the Department are required to meet the highest standards of professional conduct and ethics while on the job, and also to maintain those same high standards when taking actions in their personal lives that could reflect on the Department.

Candidates from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply. The Department of Justice is an equal opportunity employer, does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, ethnicity, veteran, gender, sexual orientation, religion, age or disability, and is committed to workplace diversity.

For additional information regarding working for the Department of Justice and application assistance, click HERE.

Oregon Department of Justice
1162 Court St NE
Salem OR, 97301
DOJ.recruitment@doj.oregon.gov

Phone: (503) 947-4328
Fax: (503) 373-0367


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