The New York State Defenders Association (NYSDA) is seeking a Staff Attorney for its Public Defense Backup Center. NYSDA, a not-for-profit, membership organization, has been providing support to New York's public defense community since 1967. NYSDA’s mission is to improve the quality and scope of publicly supported legal representation to low income people. NYSDA operates the state’s Public Defense Backup Center, which provides legal support services, training programs, its Public Defense Case Management System, and other services to public defense offices and assigned counsel attorneys throughout the state. NYSDA offers high quality training to public defense attorneys, investigators, social workers, and other members of the public defense team.
The Staff Attorney will provide consultation and legal research support to lawyers statewide who represent individuals in criminal, family court, and related proceedings who are eligible for the assignment of counsel. The Staff Attorney will also work on Backup Center publications, prepare legal updates and practice guides, assist with planning training programs, analyze legislation and regulatory materials, and provide technical assistance to public defense providers around the state.
Qualifications:
- Admitted to practice law in New York
- At least five years’ experience in criminal defense and/or adult family court representation (10+ years’ experience preferred)
- Demonstrated commitment to public defense and NYSDA’s mission
- Extensive knowledge of NYS Penal Law and Criminal Procedure Law; knowledge of NYS Family Court Act and Social Services Law is a plus
- Excellent writing and editing skills
- Strong research skills
- Technology and social media proficiency
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Strong time management and organizational skills and ability to manage varied workload and meet deadlines
NYSDA’s main office is in Albany, NY. We value the collaborative work environment in our Albany office; however, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, most employees are working remotely. There are remote opportunities available for this position. Applicants must be able to work in Albany or remotely, with the ability to travel to the Albany office occasionally. The position involves some weekend and evening hours. Occasional travel to training events around the state is required. Salary: DOE. NYSDA offers a generous benefit package, including paid vacation, personal, and sick time; health, dental, and vision insurance; FSA; and 403(b).
To apply, please send a cover letter, resume, and writing sample to Diane DuBois, Executive Assistant, at ddubois@nysda.org (subject line: Backup Center Staff Attorney). Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. NYSDA is an equal opportunity employer and strongly encourages candidates of all identities, orientations, experiences, and communities to apply. |