Director of Special Litigation

About the role

The Legal Aid Society’s Criminal Defense Practice Special Litigation Unit is seeking a highly experienced civil litigator and organizational leader to manage a team of legal professionals focused on developing creative and innovative legal advocacy and systemic law reform strategies across a range of criminal justice matters.

Responsibilities

• Provide proactive, compassionate line management to staff attorneys, paralegals and other staff within the Special Litigation Unit
• Work closely with the Attorney-in-Charge, direct and implement the strategy of the Special Litigation Unit, oversee systems to ensure the efficient and effective operation of the Unit, and provide leadership within the team
• Identify opportunities for new litigation strategies
• Initiate and lead complex civil litigation in state and federal court
• Direct research and advocacy to support policy reform at the city and state levels, working closely with the Director of Policy
• Represent the Legal Aid Society in coalitions and develop and maintain relationships with coalition and other external partners
• Support SLU’s Internal Relationships and Other Duties as Assigned
• Manage the Special Litigation Unit’s relationships across the various practice areas within the Legal Aid Society

Qualifications

• Admission to New York State bar
• Minimum of 7 years legal experience, including at least 5 years of experience with complex strategic litigation in state and federal courts implicating constitutional, civil rights, or civil liberties issues

Preferred qualifications

• Demonstrable experience in New York courts strongly preferred
• Experience in policy development and legislative advocacy is preferred but not required
• Knowledge of the rules of civil procedure and the dynamics of complex civil litigation
• Excellent legal research and analysis skills
• Excellent written and oral advocacy skills
• Experience with line management of staff and/or organizational leadership
• Demonstrated commitment to mentorship and supporting the professional development of others
• Excellent collaboration skills, including and ability to foster constructive, respectful working relationships with colleagues and coalition partners and an understanding of the importance of attention to principles of diversity and inclusion in collaborative relationships

Physical, environment, travel, and other duties required

• Mostly sedentary, significant time using a computer and monitor
• Communicating and meeting using video