The Legal Aid Bureau of Buffalo seeks to provide access to justice and due process to the most vulnerable individuals, children and families in the Western New York community through quality legal representation and assistance.
Definition: Under the direction of the Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) and Criminal Defense Unit (“CDU”) Chief Attorney, the Managing Attorney performs a variety of direct defense, administrative and supervisory activities in the area of criminal law; predominantly the defense of indigent persons in Buffalo City Court, Erie County and Supreme Court and any other Court where the Criminal Defense Unit practices, or may in the future practice.
Distinguishing Characteristics: The Managing Attorney is responsible for supervising every aspect of the defense of indigent persons, including direct representation and supervision of Staff Attorneys in their discharge of criminal defense and associated activities. This Managing Attorney position is distinguished by its dedication to training and quality control/enhancement of new and existing staff. Additional responsibilities include, but are not limited to, management of the Unit’s internship/volunteer program, training and mentoring newly hired attorneys, preparation and presentation of training materials to new and existing staff, presentation of CLEs to attorney staff both in house and potentially outside the organization, monitoring compliance with unit standards on practice mandates as provided in training and providing legislative and jurisprudential updates to existing law on a regular basis. Additional activities could include advocacy on behalf of the Legal Aid Bureau of Buffalo and its clientele, participation in collective bargaining negotiations and other tasks as assigned by the Chief Attorney or the Chief Executive Officer.
Employment Standards:
1. Seven years of experience as an attorney in the practice of criminal defense preferred; or
2. A combination of training, education and experience that is equivalent to the above employment standard and that provides the required knowledge and abilities.
3. Managerial experience preferred.
4. Computer proficiency, including, but not limited to, word processing skills and computerized legal research.
5. Reliable transportation and license to operate a motor vehicle in New York State.
Knowledge of: all statutory laws related to practicing criminal law in New York State, including the Penal Law, Criminal Procedure Law, Corrections Law, and Judiciary Law; trial and appellate court procedures; legal research methods; rules of evidence; standard legal office practice and procedures; and ethical and professional rules of conduct.
Ability to: effectively supervise diverse personalities; perform all administrative responsibilities in monitoring cases; work independently; perform legal research; analyze and apply legal principles, facts, evidence and precedents in legal problems; present statements of law, facts and arguments clearly, logically and forcefully, both in written and oral format; maintain confidentiality and objectivity; manage a caseload; operate personal computer and computer applications used by the Units; establish and maintain effective working relationships with those encountered in the course of work; and interact well with the public.
This position is full-time.
The Legal Aid Bureau of Buffalo, Inc. is committed to Diversity and Inclusion and is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Minorities / Females / Disabled / Veterans / Sexual Orientation / Gender Identity
Please send your cover letter, at least three (3) references and resume to resume@legalaidbuffalo.org or The Legal Aid Bureau of Buffalo, Inc., Attention: Human Resources, 290 Main Street, Suite 400, Buffalo, NY 14202 by March 1, 2021. |
