The mission of Mental Health Advocates (MHA) is to promote mental health and wellness in the community and support individuals and families who are living with mental illness. MHA is hiring an attorney who is dedicated to the rights of individuals living with mental illness. As an attorney at MHA, you will have the opportunity to use your Law degree to provide high quality civil legal assistance to vulnerable individuals with a mental health diagnosis, to make a significant difference in peoples’ lives, and to promote justice and change for our community. You will have the chance to assist clients with essential areas such as housing, public benefits, unemployment insurance, employment, education, consumer, and/or other civil matters. If you are mission-driven, live with mental illness or support a family member with mental illness, and truly care about justice, you are the right person for this position.
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Maintain a caseload of clients: representing them in court and before administrative and governmental agencies.
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Provide consultation, advice and referrals to mental health consumers, their families and mental health professionals.
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Carry out administrative policies of MHA.
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Maintain accurate, comprehensive case notes and time records for each client.
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Provide case support to Legal Services Program Director when requested.
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Provide statistical data necessary for reporting to funder on a regular and timely basis.
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Handle Information and Referral calls and make proper entries concerning these calls.
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Participate in staff meetings and staff trainings.
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Be a member in good standing of the New York State Bar or eligible to become a member within reasonable time after beginning employment and maintain such standing through employment with the MHA.
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1 year experience in poverty law or mental health law or interest in learning more.
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Ability to read and interpret government regulations.
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Thorough knowledge of legal research and ability to make independent legal judgments.
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Ability to do outreach to community groups to promote public awareness of Legal Services Program.
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Determine and understand the legal needs of mental health consumers in Erie and the surrounding Counties.
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Ability to demonstrate sensitivity, supportive and respectful approach to the needs of others.
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Evidence of the practice of high level of confidentiality.
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Above average oral and written communication skills.
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Sound, independent decision-making ability.
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Demonstrated ability to serve as a successful participant on the team under leadership and direction.
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Proficient computer skills in a Microsoft office environment (Word, Access, PowerPoint, etc.) or other current technology. Must include Excel and skills in database management and recordkeeping.
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Team-first attitude and a positive demeanor.
Incumbents must possess a valid Driver License and reliable transportation withthe ability to travel within New York State, as well as nationally, if required.
The Mental Health Advocates of WNY is an equal employment opportunity employer. Employment decisions are based on merit and business needs, and not on race, color, citizenship status, national origin, ancestry, gender, sexual orientation, age, weight, religion, creed, physical or mental disability, marital status, veteran status, political affiliation, or any other factor protected by law.
For more information on Mental Health Advocates of WNY, please visit our website at https://mhawny.org/
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