The New York State Office of Indigent Legal Services (ILS) is seeking a highly qualified and motivated individual to join our team as an Assistant Counsel in Buffalo. In this role, you will work collaboratively with other members of the Western New York Regional Support Center (WNY RSC) and the Family Representation Unit at ILS to help improve the quality of representation for indigent clients in Family Court matters. If you are passionate about promoting access to justice and have a strong background in Family Court public defense, we encourage you to apply for this position.
H2: About ILS
The mission of Indigent Legal Services is to improve the quality of representation provided to New Yorkers facing criminal charges or family litigation who cannot afford counsel. Our agency’s work is transforming criminal defense and parental representation, while helping people in crisis achieve greater justice in criminal cases and maintain family integrity. By joining our team, you will have the opportunity to shape policy and practice statewide and make a profound impact on justice in New York State.
H2: Job Specifics
Salary: From $109,180 to $109,180 Annually Employment Type: Full-Time Appointment Type: Temporary Travel Percentage: 15% Workweek: Mon-Fri Hours Per Week: 37.5 Workday: 9 AM to 5 PM Telecommuting Allowed: Yes
H2: Duties and Responsibilities
- Collaborate with WNY RSC and Family Representation Unit to develop and implement regional initiatives, particularly in the area of parent representation in Family Court matters - Serve as ILS point person for counties in the region and their providers of mandated Family Court representation - Assist in the development of curricula and training materials for parent representation - Provide consultation to public defense attorneys in matters involving parent representation - Assist with planning, conducting, and evaluating biennial family defense state-wide conference - Monitor and develop content for ILSFAM listserv - Assist in preparation of reports related to mandated representation in Family Court matters - Work with WNY Resource Support and Data Specialist to promote access to non-attorney professional support services and collect relevant data - Collaborate with WNY RSC Criminal Defense Counsel and Appellate Counsel to identify and propose improvements in delivery of representation - Occasional travel to Albany for in-person meetings with ILS colleagues - Undertake other activities as requested by Director and Counsel to improve quality of indigent legal services representation
H2: Qualifications
Minimum: - Admission to New York State Bar - Two years of experience in practice of law
Preferred: - Four years of experience in Family Court public defense - Strong commitment to promoting high quality public defense - Professionalism, collegiality, and sound judgment - Strong oral and written skills
H2: Join Our Inclusive and Diverse Team
ILS is committed to creating and maintaining an inclusive, diverse, and equitable workplace. We believe that these values are essential to fulfilling our mission to improve mandated representation in New York State. We welcome candidates of any age, race, creed, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, military or veteran status, disability, predisposing genetic characteristics, marital or family status, domestic violence victim status, or arrest record or criminal conviction history.
H2: Benefits and Opportunities
ILS offers a comprehensive New York State benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision care, life insurance, paid leave, membership in the New York State and Local Employees’ Retirement System, and more. Employees may also be eligible for loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. Additionally, ILS employees may be able to telecommute part-time and/or adjust work hours, subject to supervisor approval.
H2: How to Apply
To apply for this position, please submit a cover letter and resume detailing how you meet the minimum qualifications listed in the job specifics. Be sure to include the position title and vacancy ID number.
H2: Join Our Team at ILS!
If you are dedicated to promoting access to justice and have a strong background in Family Court public defense, we encourage you to apply for the Assistant Counsel position at Indigent Legal Services. Help us shape policy and practice statewide and make a profound impact on justice in New York State.
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