Temporary Staff Attorney

NYLAG•New York, NY

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

NYLAG's Special Education Unit (SEU) is seeking a Temporary Staff Attorney with a strong interest in ensuring that school-aged children with special needs receive the free appropriate public education (FAPE) guaranteed them pursuant to federal and New York State law. SEU educates parents of their rights, and advocates on their behalf when the New York City Department of Education (DOE) fails to provide their children with a FAPE. The Staff Attorney will report to SEU’s Supervising Attorney.

Requirements

J.D. required
At least 1 year prior legal experience
Experience working with communities and individuals experiencing poverty and with special needs
Interest in Special Education Law
Eagerness to learn and grow as an advocate for children with disabilities
Demonstrated commitment to advancing gender, racial, and social justice
Ability to work collaboratively, communicate effectively, manage multiple tasks, and creatively problem solve
Excellent written, oral and analytical skills
Strong organizational skills

Nice To Haves

Admission to New York State Bar preferred
Foreign language ability preferred

Responsibilities

Conducting intake calls and providing advice to parents on special education related matters
Drafting and filing legal documents including due process complaints, ten day notice letters, demand letters, and legal memoranda
Representing families at impartial hearings
Negotiating resolutions and stipulations of settlement with the DOE
Preparing, submitting, and negotiating attorney fees applications
Participating in meetings to develop Individualize Education Programs
Conducting parent and community-focused trainings on special education
Conducting legal research
Assisting with appeals to the State Review Office and federal court as necessary
Attending internal staff meetings and meetings with partner agencies
Participating in relevant internal and external coalitions and task forces
Mentoring legal interns, volunteers, and pro bono attorneys
Completing administrative duties including updating NYLAG case management systems and maintaining and updating files and case notes
Assisting in grant reporting as needed
Other duties as needed