Overview

ABOUT US

Sanctuary for Families is New York’s leading service provider and advocate for survivors of domestic violence, sex trafficking and related forms of gender violence. Every year, Sanctuary empowers thousands of adults and children to move from fear and abuse to safety and stability, transforming lives through a comprehensive range of services. We provide a range of wrap-around services to help survivors rebuild their lives in the aftermath of abuse, and work to end gender violence through three key strategies: direct services, outreach and training, and systems-change advocacy. Our services are available in 11 locations throughout New York City.

POSITION OVERVIEW

Sanctuary for Families seeks a seasoned attorney with domestic violence and/or family law experience to provide legal representation to victims of domestic violence who seek assistance with family offense, custody/visitation, and child/spousal support proceedings, as well as matrimonial matters. The attorney will also conduct community legal clinics, outreaches and training and will collaborate with other agencies to advocate for systemic change. The Senior Staff Attorney will provide leadership and expertise within a team of family law staff attorneys, and will mentor and supervise junior staff attorneys, pro bono attorneys, interns, and volunteers. The attorney will work out of the Manhattan Office and will report to the Center’s Deputy Director and Director.

RESPONSIBILITIES

· Represents victims of domestic violence in all 5 boroughs in family offense, custody, visitation, child support, spousal support, and matrimonial matters.

· Staff the Legal Helpline with the Project’s other attorneys and project assistants.

· Develops and conducts outreaches to underserved communities.

· Trains law students, pro bono attorneys, social service providers, health care professionals, and community based organizations on domestic violence and the legal needs of survivors.

· Co-counsels cases with project, Legal Center and probono attorneys;

· Advocates directly for clients with key stakeholders including but not limited to NYPD, District Attorney’s Office, Administration for Children’s Services (ACS), Human Resources Administration (HRA), and Division for Homeless Services (DHS);

· Represents Sanctuary for Families on task forces and other policy and advocacy committees outside the agency.

· Supervises pro bono attorneys on all aspects of litigation in family law matters.

· Supervises and mentors junior legal staff, volunteer attorneys and interns, and project assistants.

· Facilitates clients’ access to intra-agency and external resources, and administers provision of direct financial assistance and donations to clients.

· Partners with the Director of Pro Bono Program in identifying cases that are suitable for representation by pro bono attorneys;

· Builds relationships/partnerships with law firms, law schools, and other agencies to increase visibility of Sanctuary for Families in the legal and domestic violence communities.

· Participates in conferences and legal/bar association committee meetings to keep abreast of developments in the areas of pro bono representation, family law, and gender based violence.

· Maintains accurate and updated records of current and potential clients in the agency’s electronic database;

· Performs any other department or agency-related duties or special projects as directed by supervisor.

· J.D. and Admission to the New York State Bar

· At least five years of relevant legal experience

· Ability to handle all aspects of complex family law matters

· Ability to work independently

· Knowledge of the dynamics of gender-based oppression and a strong motivation to combat gender-based violence

· Fluency in a second language preferred

Budgeted Salary: $80,000

Work position is hybrid.

Vaccination Policy: Proof of vaccination or proof of first dose with scheduled 2nd dose within 30 days is required.

Benefits:

  • Health, Dental and Vision Insurance
  • Employer-paid life insurance
  • Employer retirement contribution
  • Paid time off
  • Flex spending account
  • Student loan assistance
  • Tuition reimbursement program
  • Gym reimbursement program

All qualified applicants will be afforded equal employment opportunities without discrimination because of race, creed (religion), color, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, military status, age, disability, predisposing genetic characteristic, marital status or domestic violence victim status, and shall also follow the requirements of the Human Rights Law with regard to non-discrimination on the basis of prior criminal conviction and prior arrest.

D.E.I Commitment: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion are core values at Sanctuary for Families that represent our dedication to fostering a safe, respectful, responsive, and fair work environment. We recognize the value diversity holds in embracing all employees, clients, and volunteers regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, national origin, age, sexual orientation, disability, or professional level.

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PI192100236

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