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NEOGOV · 2 months ago

Full-Time (1.0 FTE) ICWA Guardian ad Litem- 8th Judicial District Regional Area

8th Judicial District

Full-time

Hybrid

Entry, Mid Level

$23.12/hr - $23.12/hr

NEOGOV is seeking an ICWA Guardian ad Litem to advocate for the best interests of American Indian children in court proceedings. This role involves working under supervision to represent children in Juvenile and Family Court, ensuring compliance with relevant laws and guidelines.

GovTechHuman ResourcesInformation TechnologySoftware

Responsibilities

Monthly observation of child(ren) in home and other settings to document interactions with caretakers, peers, and others

Compilation of accurate, precise, and factual findings, conclusions, and recommendations regarding the child’s best interests within the context of their family and community that prepare the ICWA Guardian ad Litem to present written and/or oral reports to the court in a timely manner in accordance with court rules, state and local statutes, and Program policies, practices, and standards

Attendance of court hearings and other proceedings to present oral and written recommendations to the court and/or to testify as required

Knowledge and familiarity working with the American Indian community in which Indian children, parents and extended family members reside or maintain social and cultural ties

Examines files and discovery for relevant documents and data pertaining to the child including basic facts of the case and any extenuating circumstances to collect information for proceedings

Observation of the child in their home and other settings to witness the child's interaction with parents, caretakers, peers, and others including but not limited to: Tribal Social Services, Child Protection, Foster Home, extended family. Interviews child and others involved with the child using recommended interview techniques. Obtains releases of information. Calls and questions witnesses, when appropriate. Responds to questions about a case

Demonstrates knowledge of and sensitivity to the child’s cultural background when working with family and community members and considers the importance of cultural issues in making appropriate recommendations to the court on behalf of the child. Identifies culturally appropriate resources for placement, treatment, and other necessary services for the family/child

Organizes and catalogues case notes and records in case management system ensuring accuracy and precision in accordance with GAL program requirements and access rules. Adheres to record and case confidentiality/access rules

Maintains an accurate and up-to-date Outlook shared calendar of hearings and visits. Prepares timely written reports and provides other necessary documentation needed to make written and oral recommendations to the Court or testify as required. Files reports and materials in a timely manner. Stores and closes files in accordance with district/county policies

Follow ICWA Division case consult policy process to request legal representation for self and/or child and work with attorney in case preparation and review as needed

Attends individual supervision meetings, administrative reviews, case plan meetings and other proceedings as an advocate for the child. Attends program staff meetings and continuing education sessions as scheduled. Participates on local, district and/or state task forces and committees

May be accompanied by and/or act as mentor to new ICWA Guardian ad Litem

Qualification

ICWA knowledgeMIFPA knowledgeCultural sensitivityCourt representationChild welfare experienceBasic computer skillsCommunication skillsCritical thinkingTime managementTeam collaboration

Required

Bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, education, nursing, criminal justice, law or child-related discipline and some experience working with families and children OR an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience

Qualified candidates must possess a current driver's license, vehicle registration and valid automobile insurance in compliance with Minnesota statute

Must reside near the assigned service area

Successful candidates must pass background check upon hire and repeat background checks every three years thereafter

Familiarity with Federal and State laws that affect American Indian families involved in child protection and the court system. ICWA and MIFPA

Familiarity with issues and dynamics that impact American Indian Children and families such as historical trauma, child abuse, domestic abuse, chemical dependency, and developmental disabilities

Ability to identify American Indian community resources available for providing culturally appropriate services

Knowledge of the culture/demographics being served in the American Indian community and the ability to work with diverse people

Ability to interact professionally with district court judges, court administrators, staff, representatives of other agencies, attorneys, tribal attorneys and representatives, children and the public while representing the Guardian ad Litem Program in a professional manner

Ability to work independently, think critically and analyze complex family situations, and make objective and sound recommendations in the best interest of the child

Ability to develop and maintain respectful and cooperative working relationships with co-workers

Ability to remain professional/composed in crisis situations and the ability to defuse high conflict, complex situations

Ability to be receptive to feedback, have a willingness to learn and embrace the need for continuous improvement

Ability to find and work with an interpreter as necessary

Appropriate listening, oral, and written communication and critical observation skills that present effectively through interviewing, oral presentation, and formal court reports

Skilled in time and resource management and the ability to create and maintain accurate, complete, and up-to-date files

Novice proficiency with technology and relevant computer software programs and databases

Novice skill in typing and use of basic office equipment