The Western New York Law Center, Inc. (WNYLC) has an immediate opening for a Full-Time Staff Attorney to work within our Small Business Legal Clinic (SBLC) Department. The Attorney will provide legal services to small business owners and entrepreneurs at all stages of their business’ lifespan on a broad range of legal issues and will assist with other case work as assigned. The position will also involve participation in community clinics, engaging community members in legal and non-legal strategies, and involvement in legislative and administrative advocacy on behalf of those impacted by poverty and discrimination. The ideal candidate will have a legal services background with a dedication to public interest work.
WNYLC is a not-for-profit corporation formed in 1996 after Congress restricted the types of cases that Legal Services Corporation (LSC) grantees could handle. The Law Center primarily represents low-income Western New Yorkers in civil matters, emphasizing those areas restricted by LSC, including consumer debt, foreclosure prevention, and bankruptcy. The SBLC, which became part of the Law Center in January 2017, provides free legal assistance to low-income entrepreneurs and small businesses across WNY. The SLBC is the only program of its kind in Western New York and has become an integral part of WNY’s small business ecosystem.
Responsibilities:
Staff Attorneys will provide legal representation to small business owners and entrepreneurs at all stages of their business on a broad range of legal issues including, but not limited to, business formation, contracts, employees, taxes, permits/licenses/zoning, and/or buying/selling/closing a business. Staff Attorneys will attend weekly drop-in clinics at various locations around WNY and will work with Supervising Attorney to serve small business clients, collaborate with other small business community groups, and engage in outreach for the program. Staff Attorneys will provide legal education and/or training on business law topics in the community.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Admission to practice in NYS, required.
- Experience with business law, preferred.
- Minimum 3 years legal experience, preferred.
- High level of initiative and self-motivation.
- Strong writing, interpersonal, organizational and presentation skills.
- Proficient in use of computer software.
- Proven ability to relate well with people who are low-income or of diverse nationalities and cultures.
- Excellent people skills.
- Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment, with a high caseload.
- Ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues and community partners.
- Travel, required.
- May need to work evening hours, as needed.
Salary and Benefits:
Salary Range is $60,171.21 - $98,632.91. Salary is commensurate with experience and qualifications. WNYLC offers a competitive salary and generous benefits package including health, dental and vision insurance, 3 weeks of vacation, 12 paid holidays plus paid week off between Christmas and New Year’s, sick and personal leave, eligibility for public student loan forgiveness, paid life insurance, pension plan, Flexible Spending Account, and paid memberships.
To Apply:
Please send resume, cover letter, unofficial transcript (if admitted less than two years), writing sample (no longer than 10 pages), and the names of three professional references to Lauren Haas, Operations Manager, at lhaas@wnylc.net. No phone calls please.
WNYLC 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.
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