Staff Attorney

About the Company

For over 50 years, Covenant House New York (CHNY) has been at the forefront of transforming lives by providing comprehensive shelter, housing, and wrap-around support services for vulnerable homeless, runaway, and exploited youth. CHNY impacts the lives of over 1,500 young people aged 16-24 every year.

Responsibilities

• Counsel and represent youth in areas including immigration, family law, housing, employment, and public assistance
• Represent clients in courtrooms or provide one-time legal advice and counsel
• Conduct staff training on legal issues and facilitate Know Your Rights workshops
• Coordinate with social workers, case managers, and mental health professionals to provide wraparound services
• Advocate for specific bills or policies related to CHNY and runaway/homeless youth
• Identify trends for legislative or policy changes and draft policy papers or testimony
• Attend coalition and community meetings related to advocacy efforts

Requirements

• J.D. and admitted to practice law in New York State
• Minimum 2 years of legal experience
• Required courtroom litigation experience
• Demonstrated commitment to public interest law and service to vulnerable populations
• Excellent leadership, interpersonal, organizational, analytical, and writing skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience or familiarity in immigration, family, or criminal law
• Fluency or proficiency in Spanish and/or French