Civil Practice Law Graduate, Housing Justice – Tenant Defense – Fall 2027

The Legal Aid Society • New York, NY

23h • $86,520 - $157,075

About The Position

The Legal Aid Society’s Civil Practice has Law Graduate positions available in the Housing Justice Unit—Tenant Defense for Fall 2027. While awaiting New York Bar admission, Law Graduates will work closely with a Housing Supervisor and within the parameters of the LAS Practice Order. Tenant Defense handles a broad range of individual and group tenant representation at the trial and appellate levels, including holdovers, nonpayment proceedings, administrative hearings, and affirmative litigation in state and federal courts. The Unit also works with tenant associations, tenant organizers, community-based organizations, partner legal services agencies, and pro bono attorneys.

Requirements

• Current 3L students who will graduate in Spring 2027 and will sit for the New York Bar Exam in July 2027 or its equivalent
• Those participating in post-graduate Fellowships or Clerkships who took the first available bar exam are eligible to apply
• Winter 2027 graduates sitting for the first available New York Bar Exam or its equivalent are also eligible
• Demonstrated commitment to serving historically excluded communities and identifying how race, gender, class and intersectionality impact client outcomes
• Excellent written, analytical, organizational, and oral advocacy skills are required
• Applicants must be creative, flexible, and highly motivated
• Applicants must have the ability to work independently as well as collaboratively and manage a high volume of cases
• You are only eligible for employment if you take the first Uniform Bar Examination (UBE) immediately after graduation and pass either that exam or the one immediately following.
• You must also take and pass the New York Law Exam (NYLE) and the Multi-State Professional Responsibility Exam (MPRE), if you have not already done so.
• All applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States for any employer without sponsorship for a work visa or permit.

Nice To Haves

• Proficiency in languages other than English is desirable but not required
• Relevant clinical program, internship, or work experience preferred

Responsibilities

• Client representation and advocacy with city, state, and federal agencies and in court proceedings, administrative hearings, and affirmative litigation
• Conduct regular courthouse-based and off-site intake, possibly including during evening hours
• Provide training, community outreach, and education to individuals, local community-based organizations, and housing advocates
• Advocate for policy changes before legislative, administrative, and judicial bodies to advance the interests of clients
• Represent and promote the work of the office, the Civil Practice, and The Legal Aid Society in the community
• Work collaboratively with other organizations, pro bono lawyers, and partners
• Maintain a full caseload of clients
• Some weekend and night advocacy may be necessary
• Other duties as assigned

Benefits

• health insurance
• paid vacation
• disability
• life insurance
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
• State and Federal loan forgiveness programs
• assistance from New York state to assist with loan repayments, depending on years of practice

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed