Paralegal/Client Advocate Position
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The Center for Appellate Litigation (CAL) is hiring a Paralegal/Client Advocate to split their time between our Conditions of Confinement Project and our Plea Project.
CAL is a non-profit public defender law firm that represents clients convicted of crimes in Manhattan and the Bronx. We work with and on behalf of clients in all aspects of their post-conviction proceedings.
CAL’s Conditions of Confinement Project aims to give voice to clients most marginalized by the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS). The Project works with and for clients in detention who are experiencing medical neglect and harassment, among other violations of their fundamental constitutional rights.
CAL’s Plea Project offers our clients the choice of whether to seek withdrawal of their pleas by providing them with full advice and consultation after their cases are reviewed by senior appellate counsel and supervising attorneys.
Responsibilities:
- Navigating institutions within the criminal carceral system, including DOCCS, to advocate for folks convicted of crimes.
- Corresponding with clients via legal mail and legal calls.
- Speaking with and visiting clients in prison and other dehumanizing settings –typically as the first point of contact – in a variety of capacities, including discussing risks associated with pursuing appeals in felony plea cases.
- Drafting motions in felony plea appeals.
- Using software to locate clients in the community and gather relevant information.
- Speaking to trial attorneys, family members, and other community-supports.
- Ordering and reviewing medical and other records for mitigation and advocacy purposes.
- Participating in CAL’s Paralegal/Client Advocate programming.
Qualifications:
- A commitment to and passion for working with and on behalf of individuals who have been convicted of crimes; some of whom are facing immigration consequences.
- 2-3 years of relevant experience or a bachelor’s degree.
- A willingness to work and travel to dehumanizing institutions in New York State, including jails and prisons.
- Spanish fluency.
- Excellent organizational and communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Computer proficiency.
- Ability to think creatively and strategically, manage a dynamic caseload, and be a team player.
CAL’s cohort of Paralegal/Client Advocates must make a commitment to stay in this role for 2 years.
How to Apply:
A cover letter and resume must be emailed in PDF form to Jamie Chosak (she/her) at jchosak@cfal.org with the subject line “Paralegal/CA Application.”
Applications will be considered on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
The anticipated start date is in May 2023.
Due to the volume of applications, we ask that you do not contact the office to inquire about the status of your application.
Compensation:
The salary range is $49,000 - $55,000, depending on level of experience. A generous benefits package will be provided.
Currently, this position is hybrid (3 days in office and 2 days remote). This is subject to change. COVID vaccination is required.
CAL is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without unlawful discrimination on the basis of age, arrest and/or conviction record, caregiver status, citizenship status, color, credit history, creed, disability, gender identity or expression, genetic information, national origin, marital status, partnership status, pregnancy, race, religion, salary history, sexual and reproductive health decisions, sexual orientation, status as a covered veteran or active military service member, or status as a victim of domestic violence, stalking, and sex offenses in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.
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