Managing Attorney

Legal Aid Society Of Mid New York Inc • Utica, NY

8d • $104,338 - $126,756

About The Position

The Legal Aid Society of Mid-New York, Inc. (LASMNY) is a non-profit, public interest law firm that provides free legal information, advice and representation to people who are unable to afford a lawyer. Our staff provides services in thirteen counties: Broome, Chenango, Cayuga, Cortland, Delaware, Herkimer, Jefferson, Lewis, Madison, Oneida, Onondaga, Oswego, and Otsego. In addition, our Agricultural Worker Program (AWP) provides services to agricultural workers throughout New York State.

LASMNY's mission is to provide free legal assistance to low-income individuals facing civil legal issues that impact basic needs such as housing, safety, income, and healthcare. We are committed to protecting the rights of vulnerable populations including seniors, veterans, people with disabilities, immigrants, and survivors of domestic violence.

The Managing Attorney is responsible for the overall administration, supervision, and legal work of the Utica Office. This is a key leadership position that oversees legal services delivery, staff supervision, and office administration while advancing LASMNY's commitment to justice for low-income communities. The Managing Attorney is a member of LASMNY's leadership team and works collaboratively with senior management to ensure compliance with Legal Services Corporation (LSC) requirements, LASMNY policies, and program priorities.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school.
• Licensed to practice law in New York State or eligible for admission on motion.
• Minimum of five (5) years of legal experience, with preference for experience in legal services or work affecting low-income clients.
• Prior supervisory experience, including mentoring and training law students, attorneys, and/or paralegals.
• Demonstrated commitment to serving low-income and underserved communities.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Strong leadership, organizational, and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a demanding environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and computerized legal research tools.
• Valid New York State driver's license or ability to obtain one if required.

Nice To Haves

• Trial experience in a core area such as family law or housing.
• Fluency in languages other than English.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily administration and legal work at the Utica Office to ensure high-quality legal services for clients.
• Oversee office operations, including intake, advocacy, outreach, and staffing.
• Provide direct supervision, mentorship, case review, and facilitate professional development for staff attorneys, paralegals, and support personnel.
• Ensure staff adherence to programmatic, grant-related, and personnel policies.
• Collaborate with the Executive Director and leadership team to develop and implement policies, ensuring compliance with LSC and LASMNY regulations.
• Support recruitment, hiring, performance management, and employee relations, including activities within a unionized environment as applicable.
• Prepare and submit grant applications and reports and maintain accurate case records and data to ensure compliance.
• Contribute to budget development and provide fiscal oversight as assigned.
• Maintain quality control of casework by implementing training and supervision protocols.
• Manage a reduced caseload and provide direct legal representation to eligible clients in civil matters, including negotiation, litigation and administrative advocacy.
• Engage with courts, bar associations, community organizations, and partner agencies to advance outreach and community education initiatives.
• Participate actively in LASMNY’s management team, Board of Directors meetings, and substantiative work group meetings.
• Foster a respectful, collaborative, and positive organizational culture.
• Exhibit a strong commitment to LASMNY's mission.
• Demonstrate the highest level of professionalism when handling confidential and sensitive client information.
• Communicate effectively and courteously with clients, attorneys, court personnel, and community partners.
• Maintain regular and predictable attendance in accordance with organizational policies.
• Adapt to new technologies and systems, including legal research tools and case management software.
• Comply with all Legal Services Corporation regulations, LASMNY policies and procedures, and grant-based reporting requirements.
• Perform additional responsibilities and duties as assigned by a supervisor based on agency needs.

Benefits

• LASMNY offers a collaborative work environment, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to make a meaningful impact in the communities we serve.
• Salary is commensurate with experience, and a comprehensive benefits package is provided, including health insurance, retirement contributions, paid leave, and professional development opportunities.
• Annual salary starts at $104,338.00 for licensed attorneys with five years of experience and up to $126,756.00 for licensed attorneys with fifteen years of experience.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 101-250 employees