Center for Elder Law & Justice is looking to fill a full-time Attorney position, to work within our Housing Unit, focusing on Foreclosure Prevention and Immigration.
About CELJ:
Center for Elder Law & Justice (CELJ) is a civil legal services organization fighting for justice, primarily for low-income older adults, in 10 counties in Western New York. Our attorneys stop illegal evictions, save clients homes from foreclosure, put a stop to elder domestic violence, fight for public benefits, work with our local immigrant & refugee populations, and represent grandparents and other kinship care relatives in custody and neglect petitions in family court. We also advocate for systems-wide policy changes, commenting frequently on changes to regulations and working with local elected leaders on legislation that will impact the poor and vulnerable older adults in our area. We believe that independence and dignity are the hallmarks of justice.
CELJ’s Foreclosure Prevention Project (FPP) helps homeowners who are in danger of losing their home due to mortgage foreclosure. Attorneys and paralegals in this unit can assist clients with understanding their options, responding to legal documents and provide representation in court.
In partnership with Erie County Senior Services, CELJ’s Older New Americans & Refugee Legal Services Unit provides specialized services to new Americans who are age 60 and above. We handle legal issues such as, problems with Social Security’s SSI program, Medical Assistance, and other family and immigration related matters.
Essential Functions:
- Weekly court appearances including, pretrial conferences, and hearings
- Draft court documents such as answers, orders, motions, and affidavits
- Negotiate with lenders on behalf of homeowners
- Manage small contracts with rural communities
- Maintain timely and consistent client contact
- Maintain ongoing relationship with other attorneys designated to respective cases
- Provide training, community outreach, and education to individuals and local community-based organization, and other advocates
- Coordinate and collaborate with other groups and organizations
- Represent the civil practice and legal aid in the community
- Promote the work of the office and civil practice
- Work with pro bono lawyers and partner organizations
Preferred Qualifications:
- Admitted to practice in NYS
- 1-5 years legal experience, preferred
- Self-starter; self-motivated
- Must enjoy a fast paced environment
- Able to handle multiple tasks
- Ability to work independently as well as within a group
- Communication and interpersonal skills required
- Public speaking (trainings)
- Able to identify and evaluate legal issues
- Commitment to communities we serve
- Travel amongst counties, required
To Apply:
Send cover letter and resume to Rachel Haseley, HR Director Rhaseley@elderjusticeny.org
CELJ is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Employer recruits without regard to sex, race, sexual orientation, or gender identity, and any such candidates are strongly encouraged to apply |