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Dependency Attorney Jobs (NOW HIRING)

This recruitment will be used to fill a current vacancy in the Juvenile Dependency group. About Us The Office of the Public Advocate seeks professionals, both attorneys and legal staff members, to ...

Attorney I-III

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$114K - $171K/yr

This recruitment will be used to fill a current vacancy in the Juvenile Dependency group. About Us The Office of the Public Advocate seeks professionals, both attorneys and legal staff members, to ...

Attorney I-III

Mesa, AZ

$114K - $171K/yr

This recruitment will be used to fill a current vacancy in the Juvenile Dependency group. About Us The Office of the Public Advocate seeks professionals, both attorneys and legal staff members, to ...

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Dependency Attorney information

See salary details

$40.5K

$98.3K

$192K

How much do dependency attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for dependency attorney in the United States is $98,330.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,500.00 and $120,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

More about Dependency Attorney jobs

What cities are hiring for Dependency Attorney jobs?

Cities with the most Dependency Attorney job openings:

What states have the most Dependency Attorney jobs?

States with the most job openings for Dependency Attorney jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Dependency Attorney jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Dependency Attorney jobs are:

Infographic showing various Dependency Attorney job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 71% Physical, 8% Hybrid, and 21% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,330 per year, or $47.3 per hour.

Juvenile Contract Attorney - Full-Time

Houston County GA

Warner Robins, GA

$7.5K/mo

Full-time, Contractor

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description


Juvenile Contract Attorney – Full-Time

Houston County is seeking a qualified attorney to serve as a Juvenile Contract Attorney for the Juvenile Court.

This position provides legal representation and related services in a variety of juvenile matters, including delinquency, child abuse and dependency, truancy, and traffic violations. The attorney will be responsible for court appearances, case preparation, client meetings, legal research, and coordination with court staff and related agencies as necessary to support Juvenile Court operations.

This is an independent contractor position.

Compensation:
$7,500 per month.

Commitment / Availability:
The selected attorney must provide regular availability for Juvenile Court matters a minimum of three (3) days per week, as scheduled by the Juvenile Court.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Active member in good standing with the State Bar of Georgia

  • Experience in juvenile law or related court practice preferred

  • Ability to manage caseloads efficiently and maintain professional courtroom conduct