The Western New York Law Center, Inc. (WNYLC) has an immediate opening for a Full-Time Staff Attorney to work within our Bankruptcy Department. The position will involve representing debtors in Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy cases, handling consumer debt litigation and other litigation, participation in community clinics, engaging community members in legal and non-legal strategies, and involvement in legislative and administrative advocacy on behalf of those impacted by poverty and discrimination. The ideal candidate will have a legal services background with a dedication to public interest work.
WNYLC is a not-for-profit corporation formed in 1996 after Congress restricted the types of cases that Legal Services Corporation (LSC) grantees could handle. The Center represents low-income Western New Yorkers in civil matters, emphasizing those areas restricted by LSC, including consumer debt. Our vision and mission with respect to our legal work is to assure that low-income people receive the full range of civil legal services including “non-traditional” legal assistance like policy advocacy and legal education.
Responsibilities:
- Prepare, sign, and file bankruptcy petitions.
- Complete paperwork with attention to detail.
- Make court appearances.
- Engage in comprehensive legal representation, including advice, negotiation, litigation, and administrative and legislative advocacy.
- Represent individuals and engage in broad-based impact advocacy.
- Collaborate in teams led by an experienced supervisor.
- Conduct community outreach and work to build partnerships with local community organizations.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Admitted to practice in NYS or passed the NY bar and awaiting admission, required.
- Experience with consumer debt and/or bankruptcy, required.
- High level of initiative and self-motivation.
- Strong legal writing, interpersonal, organizational and presentation skills.
- Proficient in use of computer software.
- Demonstrated commitment to and passion for the rights of low-income clients.
- Excellent people skills.
- Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment, with a high caseload.
- Ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues and community partners.
- Potential travel, required.
- May need to work evening hours, as needed.
Salary and Benefits:
Salary Range is $60,171.21 - $98,632.91. Salary is commensurate with experience and qualifications. WNYLC offers a competitive salary and generous benefits package including health, dental and vision insurance, 3 weeks of vacation, 12 paid holidays plus paid week off between Christmas and New Year’s, sick and personal leave, eligibility for public student loan forgiveness, paid life insurance, pension plan, Flexible Spending Account, and paid memberships.
To Apply:
Please send resume, cover letter, unofficial transcript (if admitted less than two years), writing sample (no longer than 10 pages), and the names of three professional references to Lauren Haas, Operations Manager, at lhaas@wnylc.net. No phone calls please.
WNYLC is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Employer recruits without regard to sex, race, sexual orientation, or gender identity, and any such candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. |
