Attorneys in the Office of the Public Guardian’s Juvenile Division represent nearly 7,000 children, from birth to age 21, alleged to have been abused or neglected by their parent or guardian. The Division has over 130 attorneys, child interviewers, investigators, and support staff. Attorneys in the Juvenile Division are assigned to a child protection courtroom and represent a caseload of children with cases pending in that courtroom. Additionally, many attorneys have specialties in different areas of law – including education, human trafficking, and domestic violence – that intersect with clients’ juvenile court cases. The Office also handles appeals and damages actions on behalf of children who have been abused and even murdered in foster care.

Fellows with Rule 711 licenses appear in Juvenile Court representing children at all stages of the proceedings, including temporary custody hearings, trials, and dispositional and permanency hearings. They may also be involved in hearings for termination of parental rights.

Other assignments may include drafting complaints, motions, and other pleadings; writing briefs; interviewing child clients; and conducting investigations or special research projects. All Fellows and Interns must participate in our formal training program.

This agency is approved to host Graduate Fellows.