Research Attorney - Suffolk Probate & Family Court

Pay Grade: Grade 25S

Salary Range: 25S Entry Level Pay $105,547.78 to Pay Range Maximum $155,560.86

Starting Pay:  $105,547.78

Salary Notes: This position is designated as a Union position. All new hires must start at the entry level rate for this role per the collective bargaining agreement/MOA with OPEIU, Local 6. Pay may advance within the salary band according to the CBA/MOU.

Departmental Mission Statement: The Probate and Family Court Department's mission is to deliver timely justice to the public by providing equal access to a fair, equitable and efficient forum to resolve family and probate legal matters and to assist and protect all individuals, families and children in an impartial and respectful manner.

The Probate and Family Court Department has jurisdiction over family-related matters, such as divorce, paternity, child support, custody, parenting time, adoption, termination of parental rights, and abuse prevention. In addition to equity jurisdiction, the Probate and Family Court also has jurisdiction over wills, estates, trusts, guardianships, conservatorships, and changes of name. 

Organizational Profile:
https://www.mass.gov/orgs/probate-and-family-court

Notes: 

• This posting will remain open until filled, preference will be given to candidates that apply within the first 14 days.

• Applicants selected for interviews will be required to submit a writing sample.

   

Position Summary: Conducts legal research and drafts memoranda, decisions, and orders for assigned judge(s), and consults with judge(s) on legal issues. May oversee and train law clerks and judicial interns. 

Supervision Received: Works under the direction of the First Justice and/or their designee.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities:

• Researches and analyzes case law, statutes, rules, regulations, and other relevant law. Drafts decisions and research memoranda.
• Performs legal research for judges regarding issues that arise during trials and other court proceedings.
• Assists judges, fellow research attorneys, and law clerks with proofreading, editing, and legal interpretation of documents.
• Advises judges on legal issues.
• Oversees the work of and trains law clerks and judicial interns.
• Assists in preparing materials for committees, meetings, and judicial conferences.
• Performs other related duties as required.

Job Competencies: 

Ethics and Values: Communicates and demonstrates the ethics and values of the Trial Court.

Mission Driven: Employees are fully committed to fulfilling the Trial Court and