Description:
Position Overview:The Staff Attorney will provide comprehensive, compassionate legal services through direct representation, advocacy, and consultations on family law matters including custody, visitation, order of protection and contested and uncontested divorces, and working on the Legal Helpline. The Staff Attorney will also conduct legal clinics and partner with community based organizations, including attending outreach events and conducting professional trainings.
Responsibilities:
- Provide direct representation to clients in family law matters in Family and Supreme Courts in all 5 boroughs;
- Staff the Legal Helpline with the Project's other attorneys and project assistants;
- Conduct legal clinics at community based organizations
- Co-counsels cases with project, Legal Center and pro bono attorneys; supports training of junior staff members, interns and volunteers;
- Works with A New York City-Based Non-Profit Organization's Community and Outreach Training Initiative (SCOTI) to coordinate, organize and participate in outreach and training events;
- Advocate directly for clients with key stakeholders including but not limited to NYPD, District Attorney's Office, Administration for Children's Services (ACS), Human Resources Administration (HRA), and Division for Homeless Services (DHS);
- Conduct community-based trainings to potential clients;
- Refer clients to the appropriate in-house and external services and track the status of internal and external referrals;
- Foster and maintain relationships with community-based organizations (CBOs) that refer clients to the Helpline;
- Partner with the Director of Pro Bono Program in identifying cases that are suitable for representation by pro bono attorneys;
- Provide information regarding and assistance in completing Office of Victim Services crime victim compensation applications;
- Maintain accurate and updated records of current and potential clients in the agency's electronic database; and
- Performing any other department or agency-related duties or special projects as directed by the Director and Deputy Director.
Requirements:
- J.D. degree;
- 1- 4 years of relevant work experience
- Admission to the New York State Bar; (Law Graduates who have passed the NYS Bar may be considered)*
- Fluency in in a community language is preferred but not required;
- Ability to work with diverse populations;
- Sensitivity to sexual exploitation, domestic violence, and other gender-related issues;
- Deep understanding of and ability to work well with people of diverse ethnic, cultural, religious, educational, and socioeconomic backgrounds;
- Ability to multitask and prioritize;
- Strong ability to work independently;
- Excellent problem-solving skills;
- Excellent organizational skills;
- Strong communication skills; and
- Proficient knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite.
