The New York State Office of Indigent Legal Services (ILS) is launching a Western New York Regional Support Center in Buffalo. The ILS Western New York Regional Support Center (WNY RSC) addresses the compelling need for ILS to provide State expertise for local providers of indigent defense services and governments and to assure that the reforms initiated by the Hurrell-Harring settlement and its extension statewide under Executive Law § 832(4) will be implemented as effectively and as efficiently as possible in western New York counties.

The Attorney in Charge/Director of Western New York Regional Support Center reports to the ILS Director and is responsible for launching, promoting, and running an ILS Regional Support Center in Buffalo, New York.
Specific duties include:

• Forges and strengthens relationships with local government officials and providers of mandated representation throughout the region

• Promotes implementation of the ILS reform plans within the region, coordinating closely with the Chief Attorneys for the Hurrell-Harring Settlement Unit and HH Statewide Unit

• Identifies challenges to implementation of the ILS reform plans and works collaboratively with county officials and providers of mandated representation to develop creative solutions to meet the challenges

• Maximizes the best use of state funding by all providers and counties within the region to improve the quality of mandated representation, including negotiating budgets for ILS contracts with providers and counties within the region

• Promotes regional cooperative efforts including shared services agreements between and among counties

• Coordinates with the Director of Research to oversee progress of Resource and Data Specialist to ensure accurate and consistent caseload, quality initiatives, and counsel at arraignment data; also staffing, spending, case outcome and other data as ILS requires for each provider and county

• Oversees performance of Support Resources Specialist to assure compliance with Executive Law § 832(4)(c) initiatives to improve the quality of public defense

• Oversees work of Criminal Defense Counsel, Family Court Counsel and Appellate Counsel in the exercise of their responsibilities to support reform implementation and improve the quality of representation by all providers of mandated representation within the region

• Participates in scheduled meetings with agency leadership and other agency staff

More Information: https://statejobs.ny.gov/public/vacancyDetailsView.cfm?id=113478

The Legal Aid Bureau of Buffalo, Inc.

Chief Attorney – Appeals and Post-Conviction Unit

The Legal Aid Bureau of Buffalo seeks to provide access to justice and due process to the most vulnerable individuals, children and families in the Western New York community through quality legal representation and assistance.

Definition:  Under the direction of the Chief Operating Officer (“CEO”), performs a variety of appellate, administrative and supervisory activities in the area of criminal law; predominantly the perfection of indigent criminal appeals on behalf of individuals convicted in various counties in Western New York; performs related duties as required.

Distinguishing Characteristics:  The Chief Attorney is responsible for supervising every aspect of the appeals assigned to the Appeals and Post-Conviction Unit (“Unit”), from overseeing the communication with clients, to important public outreach activities with the legal community, to coordinating moot court sessions for staff attorneys, to monitoring the gathering of documents for records on appeal, to overseeing the proper filing of pleadings and briefs with both the Appellate Division and the NYS Court of Appeals.  The Chief is also responsible for monitoring the investigation and filing of post-conviction motions handled by the Unit, including those seeking the vacatur of judgments and extending the time to file notices of appeal. 

Examples of Duties:

            1.  Participates in contract negotiations with municipalities and not-for-profit indigent defense providers in order to secure work for the Unit.

2.  Handles his or her own case load, taking on all of the duties that a staff attorney has in representing a client, including the drafting of the brief, conducting oral argument and visiting clients in prison.

3.  Supervises the managing attorney, all staff attorneys and all administrative personnel within the Unit.

4.  Coordinates with other Units in the Bureau regarding legal projects.

5.  Supervises the staff attorneys’ handling of their cases, including, but not limited to, putting together the record on appeal by securing the necessary documents (and the review of the record on appeal), the drafting of the brief, legal research, communication with the client, oral argument, the drafting of motions, administrative issues that arise in the filing of briefs, the securing of stipulations to the record on appeal with the prosecution, the pace at which progress is being made on each case and any other human resources-related issue that arises.

6.  Conducts monthly meetings with Unit and weekly meetings with individual attorneys.

7.  Submits a written monthly report to the CEO and answers any inquiries from the CEO; while keeping the CEO up to date on the happenings of the Unit whenever appropriate.

8.  Keeps abreast of recent developments in criminal law and provides case law updates to the Unit and to other Units at the Bureau.

9.  Participates, often in a leadership role, in statewide and countywide bar association activities in order to further the interests of the Bureau, our indigent clients and the system as a whole.

10.  Is responsible for assuring that each assigned client of the Unit receives “meaningful representation” consistent with the state and federal constitutions.

            11.  Reviews drafts of every pleading, motion and brief that is filed in court by the Unit.

            12.  Communicates with clients and their families.

            13.  Communicates regularly with representatives of the Appellate Division and trial judges regarding the administration of our appeals and post-conviction work.

13.  Oversees the administration of all correspondence in and out of the Unit, as well as the securing of extensions for the perfection of appeals from the Appellate Division.

            14.  Makes sure that the Unit disposes a satisfactory number of cases per calendar year, the number to be determined by the CEO.

            15.  Oversees pro bono work conducted by outside counsel.

Employment Standards:  Active membership in the New York State Bar; and

            1.  Five years of experience as an attorney in the practice of criminal appeals preferred; or

            2.  A combination of training, education and experience that is equivalent to the above employment standard and that provides the required knowledge and abilities.

            3.   Managerial experience preferred.

            4.   Computer proficiency, including, but not limited to, word processing skills and computerized legal research.

            5.   Reliable transportation and license to operate a motor vehicle in New York State or demonstrated capacity to meet the transportation needs of the position.

Knowledge of:  all statutory laws related to practicing criminal law in New York State, including the Penal Law, Criminal Procedure Law, Corrections Law, and Judiciary Law; trial and appellate court procedures; legal research methods; rules of evidence; standard legal office practice and procedures; and ethical and professional rules of conduct.

Ability to:  effectively supervise diverse personalities, perform all administrative responsibilities in monitoring cases, as well as to perfect criminal appeals; work independently; perform legal research; analyze and apply legal principles, facts, evidence and precedents in legal problems; present statements of law, facts and arguments clearly, logically and forcefully; both in written and oral format; maintain confidentiality and objectivity; manage a caseload; operate personal computer and computer applications used by the Units; establish and maintain effective working relationships with those encountered in the course of work; and interact well with the public.

This position is full-time.

Salary Range: $120,000 - $145,000, depending on experience

Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision benefits is available to you and your dependents.  In addition, we offer generous vacation, personal, and sick time.  Other benefits available to you are long-term disability insurance, supplemental term life insurance, parking expense reimbursement plan, transit plan, a flexible spending account, and a 401(k) retirement plan.

Many of our attorneys apply for New York State Higher Education Services Corporation District Attorney and Indigent Legal Services Attorney Loan Forgiveness Program and the Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program

The Legal Aid Bureau of Buffalo, Inc. values Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Minorities / Females / Disabled / Veterans / Sexual Orientation / Gender Identity

Please send your cover letter, at least three references, resume, and writing sample to  resume@legalaidbuffalo.org or The Legal Aid Bureau of Buffalo, Inc., Attention: Human Resources, 290 Main Street, Suite 400, Buffalo, NY 14202 by July 31, 2022.

Interviews will be conducted on a rolling basis.

For more information about life in Buffalo, please visit the following:

http://info.buffaloniagara.org/blog/top-reasons-to-live-in-buffalo

https://teleport.org/cities/buffalo/

https://www.buffalospree.com/

https://www.mymovingreviews.com/move/moving-to-buffalo-ny/

https://www.movoto.com/guide/buffalo-ny/move-to-buffalo/

The Legal Aid Bureau of Buffalo, Inc.

Chief Attorney – Criminal Defense Unit

The Legal Aid Bureau of Buffalo seeks to provide access to justice and due process to the most vulnerable individuals, children and families in the Western New York Community through quality legal representation and assistance.

Definition:  Under the direction of the Chief Executive Officer, performs a variety of legal, administrative and supervisory activities in the area of criminal law; performs related duties as required.

Distinguishing Characteristics:  The Chief Attorney is responsible for administration of the criminal defense unit and supervision of the team of managing attorneys and support staff supervisor in the discharge of their various responsibilities.  The Chief is also responsible for overseeing and participating in important public outreach activities and for establishing and maintain a Legal Aid presence in the larger legal community.

Examples of Duties:

1.      Works with managing attorney team and support staff supervisor to develop procedures to ensure that clients are provided with the highest quality representation.  Supports implementation of same.

2.      Establishes and maintains a cooperative work environment.

3.      Performs conflict checks.

4.      Prepares annual master assignment calendar, term calendars, and weekly calendars.  Revises as necessary.

5.      Conducts semi-monthly unit meetings. Partners with managing attorneys and support staff supervisor to manage unit communications.

6.      Participates, often in a leadership role, in countywide and statewide boards, organizations, and bar association activities in order to further the interests of the Bureau, our indigent clients and the system as a whole.  Participates in state and federal lobbying activities regarding criminal justice issues.

7.      Assists with preparation of funding applications and compiles data for submission of periodic reports to funders.  May assist with writing grant narrative.

8.      Communicates regularly with judges and representatives of the Courts regarding the administration of our criminal defense work.

9.      Maintains strong working relationship with leaders in the district attorney’s office.

10.  Provides regular feedback to managing attorneys and support staff supervisor and prepares annual performance evaluations.

11.  Coordinates with other Units in the Bureau regarding legal projects.

12.  Keeps abreast of recent developments in criminal law and provides case law updates to the Unit and to other Units at the Bureau.

13.  Consults with and may advise staff on complex legal issues.

14.  Communicates with clients regarding concerns or complaints.

15.  Actively participates Bureau recruitment and retention activities.

16.  Represents the criminal defense unit in contract negotiations.

17.  Handles grievances and more complex personnel issues.

18.  Maintains own case load, taking on all of the duties that a staff attorney has in representing a client. 

19.  Oversees pro bono work conducted by outside counsel.

Employment Standards:  Active membership in the New York State Bar; and

            1.  Seven years of experience as an attorney in criminal defense matters; or

            2.  A combination of training, education and experience that is equivalent to the above employment standard and that provides the required knowledge and abilities.

            3.  Three years of management experience preferred.

            4.  Computer proficiency, including case management system and interfaces.

            5.  Reliable transportation and license to operate a motor vehicle in New York State or demonstrated capacity to meet the transportation needs of the position.

This position is full-time.

Salary Range: $125,000 - $145,000, depending on experience

Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision benefits is available to you and your dependents.  In addition, we offer generous vacation, personal, and sick time.  Other benefits available to you are long-term disability insurance, supplemental term life insurance, parking expense reimbursement plan, transit plan, a flexible spending account, and a 401(k) retirement plan.

Many of our attorneys apply for New York State Higher Education Services Corporation District Attorney and Indigent Legal Services Attorney Loan Forgiveness Program and the Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program

The Legal Aid Bureau of Buffalo, Inc. values Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Minorities / Females / Disabled / Veterans / Sexual Orientation / Gender Identity

Please send your cover letter, at least three references, resume, and writing sample to  resume@legalaidbuffalo.org or The Legal Aid Bureau of Buffalo, Inc., Attention: Human Resources, 290 Main Street, Suite 400, Buffalo, NY 14202 by August 15, 2022.

Interviews will be conducted on a rolling basis.

For more information about life in Buffalo, please visit the following:

http://info.buffaloniagara.org/blog/top-reasons-to-live-in-buffalo

https://teleport.org/cities/buffalo/

https://www.buffalospree.com/

https://www.mymovingreviews.com/move/moving-to-buffalo-ny/

https://www.movoto.com/guide/buffalo-ny/move-to-buffalo/

Job Posting: Statewide Legislative Coordinator

The Chief Defenders Association of New York (CDANY) is seeking an energetic, community driven part- time Statewide Legislative Coordinator. This person will assist our membership driven developing organizational in moving law reform in the criminal legal and family regulatory systems. Candidates should have a broad understanding of the political process on New York State and county levels, as well as a demonstrated commitment to racial equity, fairness and justice.  

The Statewide Legislative Coordinator will work closely with the organization’s Legislative Committee and Board of Directors, as well with various external stakeholder and community partners to set priorities and implement change. 

 

ESSENTIAL EXPERIENCE and JOB DUTIES

• ·Drafting and reviewing legislative proposals on criminal and family legal issues and contributing to the drafting of memoranda and testimony expressing CDANY’s views on such proposals. 

• Monitoring legislative calendars, hearing schedules and other important events related to the New York State legislature.

• Track and analyze legislative bills.

• Organizing lobby days, participation in legislative caucus conferences, and similar events.

• Representing the CDANY in coalitions across a broad range of criminal justice policy issues and working with those coalitions to coordinate campaigns.  

• Working with colleagues to brief legislators and policy-makers on issues of importance to CDANY and its clients.

• Ability to travel to Albany for meetings, hearings, or key strategizing sessions is a must. Strong media skills are also needed to coordinate press conferences, press releases and social media communications.  

• Ensuring consistent internal coordination and communication about policy advocacy efforts within with CDANY members.

• Must be available for periodic presentations to update Officers, Board of Directors and Membership of CDANY on progress in advancing the legislative agenda, with more frequent updates anticipated at the culmination of the legislative session.   

TRAINING AND QUALIFICATIONS   

• Understanding of criminal and family law and NYS rule-making policy and procedure.

• Strong research and analytical skills, including the ability to quickly identify and comprehend legal and policy issues  

• Excellent communications skills, including strong oral advocacy and effective and persuasive writing. Strong project management and organizational skills  

• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and respond quickly to external events  

• Ability to work collaboratively and develop and maintain relationships with internal and external partners 

• Demonstrated commitment in racial and social justice or criminal defense  

 

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS: 

• Cover Letter
• Resume
• Writing Sample

Email cover letter, resume, references and writing sample to: cdanyoffice@gmail.com

 

CDANY Members - Please post your job listings here by clicking "Add Post". Please include contact information and expiration date in listing. For assistance, please contact CDANY at cdanyoffice@gmail.com. Thank you.