Assistant Counsel
About the role
The Assistant Counsel will analyze, interpret, and apply laws related to the work of the NYS Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs as part of the Office of General Counsel. This position may be filled in Plainview, Delmar, Utica, Rochester, Syracuse, Glens Falls, Binghamton, White Plains, or Brooklyn.
Responsibilities
- Input and review all relevant case information in the Justice Center’s Vulnerable Persons Central Registry (VPCR).
- Review and assess testimonial, documentary, and audio/visual evidence gathered during investigations of allegations of abuse or neglect in facilities serving people with special needs.
- Analyze evidence to determine whether it meets statutory definitions of abuse or neglect.
- Draft legal determinations informing identified parties of the outcome of investigations.
- Consult with Justice Center investigators regarding allegations of abuse and neglect and review associated evidence.
- Defend Justice Center determinations and legal positions in proceedings before Administrative Law Judges.
- Perform pre-hearing conferences and recommend proposed settlement terms to supervisor.
- Prepare documentary evidence and witnesses for testimony at administrative proceedings.
- Draft motions, opening/closing arguments, memoranda of law, and briefs in support of agency determinations.
- Conduct statewide training with Justice Center and SOA staff.
Requirements
- Admission to the New York State Bar and a member in good standing.
- Two (2) years post-admission trial and/or hearing experience before either courts of record or in administrative proceedings.
- Commitment to public service and strong research/writing skills.
About the Justice Center
Established in 2013 by the Protection with Special Needs Act, the New York State Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs is charged with protecting over one million New Yorkers under the care or jurisdiction across six State Oversight Agencies. Learn more about the Justice Center.
Benefits
- Comprehensive benefits package.
- Holiday & Paid Time Off.
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF).
- Pension from New York State Employees’ Retirement System.
- Affordable health care options.
- Family dental and vision benefits at no additional cost.
- NYS Deferred Compensation plan.
- Access to NY 529 College Savings Program.
Specific benefits and programs may vary based on negotiating unit, current contract, and length of State service.
Employees are required to apply and obtain approval through management to telecommute according to the Justice Center’s Telecommuting Program Guidelines.
Should you accept a job offer, you may be required to be fingerprinted and pay for the fingerprinting fee.