Job Description
The County of San Diego Department of Child Support Services is hiring an entry-level Child Support Program Attorney I. In this role, you will handle routine cases and court appearances related to child support and parentage, and perform legal research and writing.
This is a full-time position based at 5500 Overland Ave., Suite 370, San Diego, CA 92123. The salary range is $98,800 - $114,358 per year, with a future salary increase of 6.46% in June 2027.
Interviews are tentatively scheduled for the week of September 14, 2026, with a conditional job offer possible the week of September 28, 2026.
Qualification
To qualify for the Child Support Program Attorney I position, candidates must meet the education and experience requirements as outlined by the County of San Diego. Typically, this includes a Juris Doctor degree and active membership in the California State Bar.
- Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
- Active membership in the California State Bar.
- No prior experience required; entry-level position.
- Ability to handle routine child support and parentage cases.
- Strong legal research and writing skills.
- Ability to appear in court and present cases effectively.
- Knowledge of family law and child support regulations.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work in a team environment.
- Commitment to public service and the mission of the Department of Child Support Services.
Role Responsibilities
Handle routine child support and parentage cases from initiation to resolution.
- Make court appearances to present and argue cases.
- Conduct legal research on child support laws, regulations, and precedents.
- Prepare legal documents, including pleadings, motions, and orders.
- Advise department staff on legal issues related to child support.
- Negotiate settlements and agreements with opposing counsel.
- Maintain accurate case files and documentation.
- Participate in training and professional development activities.
- Collaborate with other attorneys and support staff.
- Perform other duties as assigned to support the department's mission.
Conditions & Requirements
Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school.
- Ability to pass a background investigation.
- Successful completion of a pre-employment medical screening.
- Availability to start within a reasonable timeframe after job offer.
- Must be a U.S. citizen or have legal authorization to work in the U.S.
- Valid driver's license may be required for travel to court appearances.
Benefits
Salary range $98,800
- $114,358 per year.
- Future salary increase of 6.46% in June 2027 (3% across-the-board + 3.46% market adjustment).
- Full-time employment with the County of San Diego.
- Complete benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Retirement benefits through the County retirement system.
- Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
- Opportunities for professional growth and advancement.
- Public service loan forgiveness eligibility for qualifying student loans.
How to Apply
To apply for the Child Support Program Attorney I position, visit the official County of San Diego careers portal on the official application portal. Create an account or to your existing account. Complete the online application form and answer all supplemental questions. Attach any required documents, such as your resume and proof of bar membership. Review your application for accuracy and submit it before the dead…
Additional Information
This recruitment is for one full-time position in the Department of Child Support Services.
- The starting salary will be based on the candidate's qualifications at time of appointment.
- Conditional job offers may be extended during the week of September 28, 2026.
- Pre-employment medical screening is required approximately 3 days after successful background investigation.
- Anticipated start date will be based on successful completion of medical screening.
- Future salary increase of 6.46% in June 2027.
- For more information on the job description, visit the Child Support Program Attorney I classification page on the County website.
- The County of San Diego is an equal opportunity employer.
- Applicants with disabilities may request reasonable accommodation during the selection process.
About Company
The County of San Diego is a large local government organization serving over 3 million residents. It provides many public services including health, social services, public safety, and child support enforcement. The Department of Child Support Services works to ensure that children receive financial support from both parents. This role is within that department, focusing on legal aspects of child support cases. The County offers stable employment, competitive benefits, and opportunities for career growth in public service.
FAQs
What is the typical career progression for a Child Support Program Attorney I?
After gaining experience, attorneys may advance to Child Support Program Attorney II or other legal positions within the County. The department offers training and professional development opportunities.
Is this position remote or onsite?
This position is based at the County of San Diego Department of Child Support Services office at 5500 Overland Ave., Suite 370, San Diego, CA 92123. Onsite work is required, though some flexibility may be available.
What is the selection process timeline?
Applications are due by August 8, 2026. Interviews are tentatively scheduled for the week of September 14, 2026. Conditional job offers may be extended the week of September 28, 2026. Background and medical screening follow, with a start date after successful completion.
Can experience substitute for the education requirement?
No, a Juris Doctor degree and active California State Bar membership are required. Experience cannot substitute for these minimum qualifications.