Staff Attorney

NYLAG•New York, NY

10d•$90,262 - $100,532•Hybrid

About The Position

NYLAG is a leading civil legal services organization dedicated to combating economic, racial, and social injustice by advocating for individuals and families experiencing poverty or crisis. We provide comprehensive, free civil legal services, financial empowerment, impact litigation, policy advocacy, and community partnerships. Our mission is to ensure that wealth does not determine access to justice and to disrupt systemic racism by serving those whose legal and financial crises are often rooted in racial inequality. NYLAG operates in over 150 community sites and utilizes a Mobile Legal Help Center to reach those in need. With a staff of 400, NYLAG impacted the lives of nearly 129,000 people last year.

Requirements

A JD and bar passage is required.
Applicants who have passed the bar but have not yet been sworn in are accepted.
Applicants who have taken the July 2026 bar and are awaiting results are accepted.
Excellent analytical skills to assess whether clients have a legal basis for appeal based on the evidence.
Strong writing and oral advocacy skills.
Ability to handle a high volume of cases.
Ability to interact with an under-represented client population in a sensitive and professional manner.
Clear commitment to public service.

Nice To Haves

High Spanish proficiency (i.e. capable of conducting a client interview in the language) is preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

Handle cases in which New Yorkers who receive public benefits have inappropriately had SSA disability benefits denied, terminated, or recouped.
Conduct intake interviews with individuals denied SSA disability benefits.
Obtain and review medical and other records.
Research federal laws, regulations, and procedures.
Represent clients at the local office, at administrative law hearings, and on appeal.
Work independently on a significant caseload and serve as a primary case handler.