AmeriCorps Legal Assistant: 1 year term - Olean, NY
About The Position
Legal Assistance of Western New York Inc. (LawNY) is seeking an AmeriCorps Legal Assistant for its Pro Bono Unit in Olean, New York. The Access to Justice Project is a partnership between LawNY and AmeriCorps that addresses the legal needs of clients with low income by expanding access to legal assistance and helping people navigate the legal system to pursue economic benefits, decent housing, health care, and other basic needs. Members also recruit and support community volunteers and collaborate with local human services agencies. AmeriCorps members provide intake and screening services for income-eligible people seeking assistance with civil legal problems and conduct outreach to underserved populations. The role offers direct, substantive legal experience, training, and the opportunity to support low-income and vulnerable populations and their communities. The successful candidate may serve a 12-month contract term of 1,700 hours, with possible renewal depending on continued funding. The position is based in the Olean office and must begin sometime between November 1, 2026, and February 1, 2027. The member must live within commuting distance of the office and work in person for at least the first six months. LawNY will provide the hardware needed for the role.
Requirements
- At least two years of college or equivalent experience.
- Live within commuting distance of the Olean office.
- Be available to work in person for at least the first six months of the contract term.
- Submit a cover letter, resume, and three references through LawNY's BambooHR platform.
Nice To Haves
- Prior experience working with clients with low income is preferred but not required.
Responsibilities
- Provide intake and screening services for income-eligible people seeking legal assistance with civil law problems.
- Conduct outreach to underserved populations.
- Recruit and support community volunteers.
- Enhance collaboration with local human services agencies.
- Help clients access the legal system to pursue economic benefits, decent housing, health care, and other critical basic needs.
Benefits
- Monthly living allowance of $2,000 for the duration of the contract term.
- May be eligible for assistance obtaining basic health coverage, housing, and food assistance.
- May be eligible for an educational award, childcare expenses, and student loan deferment.
- Training and direct, substantive legal experience.
- Necessary hardware provided by LawNY.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
