WNYLC Staff Attorney – Housing Unit:
The Western New York Law Center, Inc. (WNYLC) has an immediate opening for a Full-Time Staff Attorney to work within our Housing Unit. The attorney will be representing low to moderate income tenants facing evictions, homeowners facing foreclosure, homeowners seeking estate preparation and/or title work, and heirs seeking to probate the estates of deceased homeowners. 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 and experience drafting Wills and probating estates.
Since its formation in 1996, WNYLC has committed to its enduring mission to ensure that low-income Western New Yorkers receive a full range of civil legal services, including representation, policy advocacy, and legal education, focused on the areas of housing, income maintenance, and consumer debt.
Responsibilities:
Staff Attorneys engage in direct and comprehensive legal representation, including advice, negotiation, motion practice, discovery, and litigation along with administrative and legislative advocacy. Court appearances will be in-person or virtual in Western New York and surrounding counties. Night appearances may occasionally be required. Travel expenses are reimbursed by the office. Attorneys collaborate in teams led by an experienced supervisor. Attorneys conduct community outreach and work to build partnerships with local community organizations.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Admitted to practice in NYS or passed NYS Bar Exam and awaiting admission, required.
- Experience drafting Wills and probating estates, required.
- Experience with landlord/tenant law and/or foreclosure defense law, preferred.
- High level of initiative and self-motivation.
- Strong legal writing, interpersonal, organizational and presentation skills.
- Proficient in use of computer software.
- Demonstrated commitment to and passion for the rights of low-income clients.
- 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 $65,100 - $81,502. 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, hybrid work week, 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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