Job Title: Criminal Defense Practice Staff Attorney, Lateral
Experience: At least 3 years of experience in Criminal Law
Salary: Approximately $86,400-$111,240 for candidates with 3-10 years of directly relevant experience
Organization: **Members Only**
Department: Criminal Defense Practice
H1: Join Our Team as a Criminal Defense Practice Staff Attorney!
H2: Passionate About Public Defense? Apply Today!
- **Members Only** is a progressive and innovative non-profit organization dedicated to transforming the legal system for low-income Bronx residents.
- We are seeking a passionate and experienced attorney to join our dynamic and diverse staff in the Criminal Defense Practice.
- Our interdisciplinary team of over 400 staff members works together to provide holistic advocacy for our clients, addressing the causes and consequences of legal system involvement.
- Through our groundbreaking holistic defense model, we have achieved better outcomes for the people we defend.
- As a Criminal Defense Practice Staff Attorney, you will have the opportunity to make a real and lasting impact by directly defending individuals charged with criminal offenses in the Bronx community.
- We also prioritize challenging systemic injustice and carceral systems through impact litigation, policy advocacy, and community organizing.
- This is a full-time, in-person position with a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, a 403(b) plan with employer contribution, and generous vacation, sick leave, and parental leave policies.
- Approximately 70% of our staff are represented by UAW Local 2325 - Association of Legal Aid Attorneys (AFL-CIO).
- We are committed to cultivating an anti-oppressive workplace that embraces diversity and encourages applicants from marginalized communities to apply.
- Join us in our mission to create a more just and equitable legal system for all.
Responsibilities:
- Engage in client interviewing, counseling, research, writing, oral advocacy, and negotiations as part of legal representation.
- Zealously advocate for individuals charged with misdemeanor and felony offenses in Bronx Criminal Court.
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to provide comprehensive, team-based representation and mitigate any further legal system involvement or civil consequences for our clients.
- Litigate, negotiate, and advocate for our clients with judges, prosecutors, and other actors within the legal system.
- Work regular arraignment shifts, including nights and weekends, and assist colleagues with representation of clients.
- Co-counsel cases in other venues, such as Family Court, Civil Court, and Administrative Hearings, as necessary and desired.
- Participate in holistic advocacy within the practice and the office, as well as internal working groups to develop best practices.
- Attend trainings and events, both within the office and externally, to further develop your skills and knowledge.
Qualifications:
- At least 3 years of experience in Criminal Law.
- Membership in good standing or eligibility for prompt admission to the New York Bar.
- Commitment to directly defending people charged with criminal offenses in the Bronx community.
- Commitment to challenging systemic injustice and carceral systems.
- Experience working in and with marginalized communities.
- Ability to effectively and respectfully communicate, collaborate, and connect with people from various backgrounds, identities, and experiences.
- Ability to work well independently and collaboratively with an interdisciplinary team.
- Willingness to strategically challenge authority in defense of our clients.
- Strong research, writing, and courtroom advocacy skills.
- Ability to multitask, maintain order, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced, high-stakes environment.
- Meticulous attention to detail and ability to think critically and creatively under pressure.
- Willingness to receive and act on constructive feedback.
- Excellent judgment, discretion, and ability to maintain confidentiality.
- Commitment to raising cultural consciousness and challenging oppressive practices.
To Apply:
- Click "APPLY TO THIS JOB ONLINE" and upload your resume and cover letter in one document. Alternatively, you may upload a video or audio statement in lieu of a cover letter.
- Your cover letter or statement should share why you are interested in this position, highlight relevant experiences, and provide any additional information you would like us to consider.
- Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis.
- Please contact the Recruiting & Hiring Team at **** with any questions.
Salary and Benefits:
- Salary is commensurate with experience.
- For candidates with 3-10 years of directly relevant experience, the salary range is approximately $86,400-$111,240.
- Full-time employees are eligible for a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, a 403(b) plan with employer contribution, and generous vacation, sick leave, and parental leave policies.
- More specific information will be provided upon offer of employment.
