Housing and Benefits Attorney, CJP

Brooklyn Defender Services•New York, NY

3d•$97,000 - $184,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Brooklyn Defender Services (BDS) is seeking an attorney for its Civil Justice Practice to represent individuals with concurrent criminal legal, family court, and immigration matters. BDS is a public defense office dedicated to protecting the rights of low-income New Yorkers and advocating for systemic change. The role focuses on the intersections of legal systems that disproportionately affect marginalized communities. BDS provides comprehensive legal and advocacy services, including in housing, public benefits, education, and employment, through interdisciplinary teams of attorneys, social workers, and advocates. The Civil Justice Practice's Housing and Benefits team handles cases ranging from advice and consults to full representation in housing court and administrative hearings for issues such as eviction, public housing termination, repair needs, landlord harassment, and wrongful denial of public benefits. Civil attorneys also work to ensure clients have access to public benefits and adequate shelter. Attorneys in this role will serve as a resource for colleagues, facilitate internal referrals, assist with intake, and consult on plea agreements and Article 10 settlements. They will advocate for clients facing barriers to benefits and shelter, eviction proceedings, or unsafe housing conditions.

Requirements

Admission to the New York bar or eligibility to become admitted.
Prior experience providing direct legal services representation in eviction defense, public benefits advocacy or similar field.
Interest in strategizing issues for clients who face multiple interrelated issues.
Excellent interpersonal skills, including an ability to work across practices with colleagues concurrently representing clients.
Efficient, organized work style and an ability to prioritize quickly and manage multiple deadlines and emergencies.
A willingness to learn multiple practice areas and a strong desire to develop a multi-disciplinary practice.

Nice To Haves

Proficiency in a second language is a plus.

Responsibilities

Engage in direct representation of individuals and groups in housing and benefits matters in multiple civil and administrative forums.
Provide advice and counsel to criminal, family, and immigration defense colleagues and clients during ongoing proceedings.
Investigate and research potential policy and litigation avenues.
Research and write internal memoranda and train staff and outside organizations.
Consult with clients and community members and develop Know Your Rights resources.
Additional responsibilities as assigned.