GENERAL SUMMARY

Under the general supervision and direction of the Friend of the Court Director and the Circuit Court Judge, the Investigator/Conciliator performs professional investigative, conciliatory, analytical, and administrative duties involving domestic relations matters. Responsibilities include conducting investigations, alternative dispute resolution and conferences concerning child custody, parenting time, change of domicile, child support, spousal support, and related financial matters at both the pre-judgment and post-judgment levels. The position gathers and evaluates factual, financial, and legal information; facilitates dispute resolution; and prepares reports, recommendations, stipulations, and proposed orders for consideration by the Court. The position requires independent judgment, discretion, impartiality, and the ability to address sensitive and complex family matters while considering the best interests of children.

DESCRIPTION OF WORK / ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following. Assignments may change based upon office needs, changes in applicable statutes, court rules, administrative directives, and Circuit Court policies.

• Conducts investigations involving custody, parenting time, change of domicile, child support, spousal support, and other domestic relations matters. Investigations may include home visits, interviews with parents and children, and contact with schools, medical providers, law enforcement, Child Protective Services, and other relevant agencies or individuals.
• Conducts conciliation conferences and facilitates discussions between parties to resolve disputes involving custody, parenting time, support, medical insurance, and related matters.
• Prepares stipulations and proposed orders when agreements are reached and, when necessary, conducts further investigation and submits recommendations to the Court.
• Reviews and analyzes financial information, including tax returns, employment records, wage statements, child care expenses, medical expenses, insurance, unemployment, disability, Social Security benefits, and other sources of income.
• Prepares support calculations and recommendations utilizing the Michigan Child Support Formula and applicable spousal support guidelines.
• Reviews and interprets court orders, pleadings, motions, evaluations, transcripts, financial records, and other legal documents.
• Applies relevant Michigan statutes, court rules, case law, and administrative policies in preparing recommendations and evaluating domestic relations matters.
• Prepares investigative reports, financial summaries, recommendations, stipulations, proposed orders, and related correspondence.
• Appears and testifies in court regarding investigative findings and recommendations as required.
• Coordinates case activities, schedules conferences and interviews, maintains accurate case records, monitors deadlines, and compiles statistical information and reports required by the State.
• Maintains working relationships and coordinates services with the judiciary, attorneys, law enforcement, Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, Child Protective Services, counseling agencies, mental health professionals, and other governmental and community organizations.
• Coordinates and monitors assigned programs, grants, and contractual services, including the Access and Visitation Grant, supervised parenting time, family services, and counseling programs.
• Develops and presents the SMILE (Start Making It Livable for Everyone) program and provides information regarding Friend of the Court services, procedures, parental responsibilities, and community resources.
• Performs specialized administrative responsibilities, which may include serving as LEIN TAC Coordinator, processing bank deposits, placing and removing holds on child support payments, conducting authorized background checks, preparing reports, and assisting with office operations and procedures.
• Maintains current knowledge of Michigan domestic relations law, Friend of the Court procedures, child support regulations, and applicable state and federal requirements.
• Performs other related duties as assigned by the Friend of the Court Director or the Court.

ELIGIBILITY

This position is open to all persons who meet the minimum qualifications established by Branch County.

EDUCATION

Bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, sociology, social sciences, human services, education, criminal justice, law, or another closely related field. Graduate degree preferred.

EXPERIENCE

A minimum of five (5) years of relevant professional experience in a Friend of the Court office, court system, legal setting, social services agency, or closely related field. Investigative, domestic relations, financial analysis, or dispute resolution experience preferred.

OTHER KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of Michigan domestic relations law, Friend of the Court operations, court procedures, and applicable regulations.
• Ability to conduct impartial investigations, evaluate information, and formulate sound recommendations.
• Ability to interpret court orders, statutes, court rules, and legal documents.
• Knowledge of the Michigan Child Support Formula and ability to analyze financial records.
• Strong written and verbal communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to facilitate conferences and interact effectively with individuals experiencing difficult and emotionally charged circumstances.
• Ability to exercise independent judgment, discretion, confidentiality, and professional impartiality.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with court personnel, attorneys, governmental agencies, service providers, and the public.
• Ability to operate computers, court information systems, and standard office equipment.

CERTIFICATION / LICENSURE

Valid State of Michigan driver's license.

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS

The position requires periodic travel to residences and other facilities to conduct investigations. Working conditions may include exposure to uncomfortable or unsanitary environments and regular contact with individuals experiencing significant emotional distress or potentially volatile situations. Periodic travel for training and meetings may also be required.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND WORKING CONDITIONS

Ability to perform the essential functions of the position, including accessing office files, court facilities, and residences; operating computer systems; and lifting and carrying files weighing up to 30 pounds. Reasonable accommodations will be made for otherwise qualified individuals.