Are you a legal professional with a passion for family and probate law? The Middlesex Probate And Family Court is seeking dedicated and skilled Research Attorneys to join their team. This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to the efficient and equitable administration of justice within a respected Massachusetts court system.
The Probate and Family Court Department plays a crucial role in the Massachusetts legal system, ensuring timely justice for families and individuals navigating complex legal matters. With a commitment to fairness and respect, the court addresses a wide range of sensitive issues, including divorce, child custody, adoption, wills, estates, and guardianships. Operating across 14 divisions, the court provides a vital forum for resolving family disputes and protecting the rights of all parties involved.
As a Research Attorney, you will be at the heart of the court’s operations, providing essential legal support to judges and the Administrative Office. This role is pivotal in upholding the court’s mission by ensuring well-informed and legally sound decisions. Your primary responsibilities will include in-depth legal research and analysis, preparing comprehensive legal memoranda, and assisting in drafting judicial decisions. This position offers a unique opportunity to engage with diverse and challenging legal questions within the probate and family law domain.
The Research Attorney position is structured in two levels, allowing for professional growth and development:
Research Attorney I: This is the entry point, ideal for legal professionals with a strong foundation in legal research and a desire to specialize in probate and family law. In this role, you will delve into legal issues, contribute to crafting detailed legal memoranda, and assist in drafting crucial court documents such as findings of fact, conclusions of law, and judgments. You will also play a role in training and guiding law clerks and interns, contributing to the development of future legal professionals. Collaboration with judges and administrative staff is a key aspect, providing legal counsel and support on a variety of matters.
Research Attorney II: Building upon experience as a Research Attorney I, this level involves handling more intricate and novel legal challenges. You will be expected to independently research complex legal arguments and issues, providing expert legal memoranda to aid in judicial decision-making. Mentorship and training of junior colleagues, including law clerks and interns, becomes a more significant aspect of this role. Furthermore, Research Attorney II positions may involve undertaking special projects aimed at improving court operations and efficiency.
Both Research Attorney I and Research Attorney II positions require a commitment to upholding the highest ethical standards and values of the Probate and Family Court Department and the Trial Court. A deep understanding of the court’s mission to deliver fair, equitable, and efficient justice is paramount. Successful candidates will demonstrate applied knowledge of legal research methodologies, the ability to prepare clear and concise legal documents, and contribute to the ongoing refinement of court rules and policies. Problem-solving skills are essential, with an emphasis on accurately identifying legal issues and proactively proposing effective solutions.
The Middlesex Probate and Family Court values continuous learning and professional development, encouraging Research Attorneys to expand their expertise and stay abreast of evolving legal landscapes. A commitment to diversity and inclusion is also central to the court’s values, fostering a respectful and collaborative environment for individuals from all backgrounds. Customer service excellence is emphasized, ensuring courteous and professional interactions with both court personnel and the public. Teamwork and collaboration are integral to the court’s operational ethos, promoting a shared commitment to departmental goals.
To be considered for a Research Attorney position at the Middlesex Probate and Family Court, candidates must meet the following minimum requirements:
Research Attorney I Requirements:
- Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school.
- Membership in the Massachusetts Bar.
- Two or more years of relevant legal experience, or a combination of legal experience and judicial clerkship experience. Prior clerkship within a Probate and Family Court is highly advantageous.
- Exceptional legal writing and communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex legal concepts clearly and effectively.
- Proven expertise in legal research and analytical skills, utilizing both online legal databases and traditional legal resources.
- Ability to effectively train, administer, and oversee the work of law clerks and interns.
- Proficiency in using personal computers, including word processing software such as Microsoft Word and legal research platforms like Lexis or Westlaw.
- Demonstrated ability to follow instructions, manage multiple tasks, prioritize assignments, and meet deadlines consistently.
- Strong independent work ethic combined with the ability to collaborate effectively within a professional team environment, including judges, managers, and court staff.
- Willingness and ability to travel to various courthouses as needed.
Research Attorney II Requirements:
- A minimum of four years of experience as a Research Attorney I.
- Comprehensive knowledge of the Massachusetts judicial system, including court policies, procedures, and practices.
- Demonstrated expertise in analyzing and researching complex legal issues, requiring a high level of legal acumen.
- Proven ability to mentor and guide law clerks and interns effectively.
- Demonstrated capacity to analyze administrative challenges and contribute to the development of practical and feasible solutions.
Joining the Middlesex Probate and Family Court as a Research Attorney offers a rewarding career path for legal professionals seeking to make a tangible difference in the lives of families and individuals within the Massachusetts community. If you possess the requisite skills, experience, and dedication to public service, we encourage you to apply. This is your opportunity to contribute your legal expertise to a vital institution committed to delivering justice with fairness, equity, and respect.
