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.
JOB SUMMARY:
Reporting to the Supervising Attorney, the Attorney will be responsible for assisting their department to ensure that the firm represents clients in a holistic manner to achieve clients’ goals through aggressive advocacy, including litigation. The Attorney will work closely with the paralegals and support staff to develop and implement the firm’s mission and goals.
REPORTS TO:
Supervising Attorney
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
- Determine acceptance of new cases, course of action, and further legal proceedings if appropriate venue
- Carry a caseload with paralegal supervision
- Provide representation on statewide task forces regarding Elder Abuse issues
- Provide representation in court & hearings (local, State, and Federal agencies)
- Provide training, community outreach, and education to individuals and local community-based organizations, and other advocates
- Advocate for legislation and determining lobbying proprieties
- 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
ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Supervise student interns, as needed
- Some travel is required
- Client home visits, as needed
- May need to work evening hours, as needed
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:
- Juris Doctor (JD) Degree
- Admitted to practice in NYS
- At least 3 years of practice experience, preferred
- Experience with elder abuse or another sensitive client base, very helpful
- Litigation experience, desirable
- Trauma informed care experience, preferred
- Legal services background, or knowledge of general civil legal work
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:
- Strong written and oral communication skills
- Analytical abilities and problem-solving skills
- Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment, with a high caseload
- Ability to work efficiently and accurately while exhibiting patience and diplomacy
CELJ offers a competitive benefits and compensation package, including:
- Generous vacation and sick time
- Employer covered health, dental & vision
- Fourteen holidays a year, plus two half-day holidays
- Summer hours between Memorial Day and Labor Day
- Payment of license fees and association dues
- Encouragement of professional development
- Eligible for Federal Loan Forgiveness
Salary Range – 60k – 80k
*Beginning April 2024 – 65k – 85k
Salary is based on experience and alignment with steps in union scale.
To Apply:
Send cover letter and resume to Chandler Jones- cjones@elderjusticeny.org
No phone calls please.
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.
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