Attorney Interne

As an Attorney Intern at the Administration for Children’s Services (ACS), you will be tasked with various responsibilities that include working closely with Child Protective caseworkers to analyze legal issues, drafting legal documents, and representing ACS in Family Court. You'll also be involved in interviewing witnesses, preparing case files, conducting legal research, and counseling caseworkers on matters related to child welfare.

To qualify for the Attorney Intern position at the Administration for Children’s Services (ACS), candidates must have graduated from an accredited law school in the United States or be admitted to the New York State Bar. This educational background provides the necessary foundation to effectively navigate the legal landscape within child welfare proceedings.

The Attorney Intern role at the Administration for Children’s Services (ACS) offers a unique opportunity for direct experience in child welfare law, invaluable legal mentorship, and exposure to courtroom litigation. This internship allows you to build your professional network while contributing to meaningful work aimed at advocating for children and families.

Attorney Interns at the Administration for Children’s Services (ACS) can expect a collaborative and supportive work environment. Each intern will work under the guidance of experienced attorneys, taking on their own caseloads while being provided with regular supervision and mentorship, making it an ideal setting for skill development and professional growth.

The Administration for Children’s Services (ACS) has various Attorney Intern positions located throughout New York City, specifically in the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, and Staten Island. This geographical diversity allows interns to experience different boroughs' unique legal landscapes while serving the community.

When answering this question, relate your passion for child welfare and advocacy. Highlight specific experiences, such as internships or volunteer work, that have fueled your desire to work for the Administration for Children’s Services (ACS). Be sure to show your commitment to making a difference in children's lives.

Demonstrate your ability to remain calm and focused under pressure. Share an example of a specific instance where you effectively managed stress during critical moments, emphasizing strategies like preparation, teamwork, and seeking guidance from peers or supervisors, as you would at ACS.

Describe your approach to legal research, including using databases, analyzing case law, and synthesizing information. You can mention any specific tools you are comfortable using and how you utilize legal research in real-world scenarios, especially those relevant to the work at the Administration for Children’s Services (ACS).

Choose a challenging legal problem from your experience and explain the steps you took to address it. Focus on your analytical skills, how you sought guidance, and any effective solutions you proposed, all of which are crucial skills for an Attorney Intern at ACS.

Use this question to showcase your understanding of the child welfare landscape. Discuss current issues such as the impact of systemic poverty, access to resources, or the importance of foster care quality, and how you believe the Administration for Children’s Services (ACS) can address these challenges.

Emphasize the importance of collaboration and communication when working with Child Protective caseworkers at ACS. Discuss interpersonal skills and the importance of understanding their roles, as well as how your legal insights can augment their efforts.

Discuss your approach to drafting legal documents, such as creating outlines, utilizing templates, and confirming adherence to legal requirements. Provide examples of how this method has helped you meet deadlines while maintaining quality during your previous experiences.

Describe your preparation process, which could include reviewing case files, developing arguments, practicing testimonies, and conducting preliminary witness interviews. Highlight the importance of thorough preparation for effective representation, especially in the context of ACS's mission.

Emphasize that the Attorney Intern’s role is supportive yet significant in court proceedings. Discuss the importance of research, documentation, and effective communication, ensuring that you highlight how an Attorney Intern contributes to the success of child welfare cases handled by ACS.

Explain your methods for staying informed about legislation and policy changes, such as subscribing to journals, attending relevant workshops, and participating in professional networks. Emphasize your dedication to understanding the evolving landscape of child welfare and how it affects the work done at the Administration for Children’s Services (ACS).