Staff Attorney - Civil Law

Summary A Civic & Social Organizations Company provides legal advice and representation to eligible 32BJ members and their dependents. Reporting to the Supervising Attorneys and the Director of the Legal Services Fund, the Staff Attorney will provide legal services to the members of Building Service 32BJ who are eligible under the union's Legal Services Plan.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide legal representation in civil matters, including real estate, bankruptcy and estate planning before courts and related venues.
• Draft legal documents like petitions, motions, orders, and correspondence
• Represent clients in court hearings
• Develop legal strategy, build case theories, conduct research and assemble evidence
• Negotiate settlements in the best interests of clients
• Provide clients with supportive legal advice and guidance
• Conduct out-of-court case preparation including interviewing, investigation, document review, and witness preparation
• Discuss case progress with supervisors and provide reports summarizing case status
• Obtain case records
• Maintain ongoing contact with clients, opposing counsel, advisory parties, colleagues and courts through telephonic, electronic and written communication
• Update case files timely, including, file notes, correspondence and file records; and complete other duties as necessary to maintain client files
• Supervise (work product only) legal assistants, paralegals and legal interns
• Be familiar with substantive and procedural family law
• Have knowledge of areas covered under the Legal Service Plan
• Maintain confidential materials and information associated with all clients
• Attend member information meetings under the direction of supervisory personnel, including travel as required

Qualifications and Requirements:

• Juris Doctor degree and admission to the New York State Bar
• 2+ years experience specifically handling family law cases
• Strong negotiation, writing, research, analytical, and litigation skills
• Ability to balance a busy caseload and manage client expectations
• Compassionate approach in working with clients in difficult situations
• Collaborative team player with ability to also work independently
• Ability to electronically file documents and cases with administrative agencies and courts
• Maintain professional appearance, workspace, and demeanor as a representative of the Legal Services Fund
• Analyze complex issues and exercise sound legal judgment, with the assistance and guidance of supervising attorneys
• Ability to appear before courts and agencies and present orally and in writing in an articulate and professional manner
• Outstanding communication, analytical, research and writing skills