Staff Attorney, Criminal Appeals Bureau - Entry Level Fall 2027
About The Position
The Legal Aid Society’s Criminal Appeals Bureau (CAB) represents people convicted of crimes who cannot afford an attorney. As New York City’s largest post-conviction public defender, CAB serves more than 1,000 people annually. Its practice challenges unjust and illegal criminal judgments through rigorous, well-researched legal advocacy that centers clients and their stories. In partnership with other Legal Aid Society units, CAB also addresses the direct and collateral consequences of convictions. Staff Attorneys manage a large, diverse caseload involving appellate briefs and oral arguments in New York’s intermediate appellate courts and the New York Court of Appeals, as well as other post-conviction proceedings and sex offender registration hearings. They provide effective representation through regular client communication and a practice grounded in creativity, thoroughness, and sound judgment. The role is expected to start in or around September 2027.
Requirements
- Admission to the New York State Bar, or law school graduation and eligibility to practice under The Legal Aid Society’s Practice Order.
- Knowledge of evidence, criminal and constitutional law, statutory interpretation, and the ethical principles in the Rules of Professional Conduct.
- Excellent writing, analytical, and oral advocacy skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively and collegially with all staff members.
- Ability to work independently with personal initiative and organization.
- Commitment to serving low-income communities and communities of color.
- Thoughtfulness about attorneys’ roles in public defense, social and racial justice, and equity.
- Legal authorization to work in the United States for any employer without sponsorship for a work visa or permit.
Nice To Haves
- Criminal appellate experience or equivalent post-conviction experience.
- Experience working with people incarcerated in prison.
Responsibilities
- Manage a high-volume caseload of direct appeals, CPL 440.10 and 440.20 motions, sex offender registration hearings and risk-level modification petitions, and other post-conviction relief.
- Approach cases with creativity and a client-centered perspective, exercising sound judgment.
- Research and analyze case law, statutes, treatises, and other secondary sources.
- Draft and revise briefs for filing.
- Review cases and discuss strategy with colleagues and supervisors.
- Prepare for and conduct oral advocacy before trial and appellate courts as needed.
- Regularly communicate with clients and advise them about the appellate process and possible options, including withdrawal of appeals where appropriate.
- Participate in continuing education on best practices, legal and case developments, and the effects of race, wealth, and gender on the criminal legal system.
- Demonstrate behaviors that support an inclusive work environment for CAB staff.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Paid vacation
- Disability insurance
- Life insurance
- Eligibility to participate in Public Service Loan Forgiveness and other state and federal loan forgiveness programs
- New York residents may be eligible for state loan repayment assistance, depending on years of practice
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
