Policy Counsel, Criminal Defense Practice

The Neighborhood Defender Service of Harlem (NDS) is a community-based, client-centered, holistic public defense office located in Harlem, providing civil, criminal and family representation to residents of Northern Manhattan. NDS seeks to hire a Staff Attorney in the Criminal Defense Practice.

The Criminal Defense Practice at NDS represents residents of Northern Manhattan who are charged with crimes and cannot afford to hire a lawyer. Clients are represented by teams composed of lawyers, investigators, social workers, client advocates, team administrators and interns. NDS also provides pre-arrest representation to clients under threat of arrest. NDS adheres to a client centered approach to representation that emphasizes a heightened responsiveness to clients’ needs prior to arrest, while a case is pending, and after the case concludes. NDS is committed to addressing the comprehensive legal and social service needs of clients. NDS also actively pursues criminal legal system reforms based on the experiences and needs of our clients. The Policy Counsel position will lead legal reform efforts at the city and state level for the Criminal Defense Practice under the supervision of the Managing Attorney.

Qualifications:

1. A demonstrated commitment to criminal legal reform, indigent defense, racial equity, social justice issues, and the Harlem communities.
2. At least 5 years of experience practicing as a public defender in New York criminal and supreme courts.
3. Bar admission in New York.
4. Familiarity with New York city and New York state legislative processes.
5. Must have experience collaborating with other advocates and community-based organizations.
6. Must possess a high level of organizational and administrative skills.
7. Must be able to work cooperatively in a team setting.
8. Must be able to communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing.
9. Bi-lingual (Spanish) candidates are encouraged to apply.