The Minnesota Supreme Court is seeking an attorney to join the State Board of Appellate Counsel and Training. The board, established in 2023, consists of seven members: four public members appointed by the Governor and three members appointed by the Supreme Court. At least one member must have experience representing parents in juvenile court, with two attorneys admitted to practice law in Minnesota and one public member. Additionally, at least three members must reside outside the 1st, 2nd, 4th, or 10th judicial districts.
This position offers an opportunity to influence appellate defense for parents involved in juvenile-protection cases statewide. According to the announcement:
“Protect families: Help ensure that parents have high-quality legal representation at all stages of child protection proceedings.
Strengthen the profession: Grow a robust network of parent‑attorneys throughout Minnesota.
Leverage funding: Work with the Department of Human Services to secure and deploy Title IV‑E resources.”
Candidates should be licensed attorneys in Minnesota with direct experience representing parents in juvenile court matters at both district and appellate levels. Experience with the Indian Child Welfare Act or the Minnesota Indian Family Preservation Act is preferred, as well as familiarity with Chapter 260C, Rules of Juvenile Protection Procedure, and Civil Appellate Procedure rules. Prior involvement in parent-attorney training or mentorship programs is also sought.
Certain restrictions apply; applicants cannot be sitting judges, registered lobbyists, guardians ad litem or their counsel, DHS employees or contractors, or current city or county attorneys.
Interested individuals are asked to submit a resume and letter of interest detailing relevant experience and their judicial district by Friday, March 20th, 2026 at 4:30 PM. Applications can be sent via email to Christa Rutherford-Block, Clerk of Appellate Courts (mjcappellateclerkofcourt@courts.state.mn.us), or mailed to the address provided in the announcement. Email applications are preferred.
The Minnesota Judicial Branch serves residents across the state by upholding the rule of law and providing fair justice through its Supreme Court, Court of Appeals and district courts. It promotes transparency through public court proceedings and opinions while offering access to court records and legal support tools for self-represented individuals.