Attorney

Unity House Senior AttorneyIf you're interested in representing victims of domestic and sexual violence, working a 37.5 hour work week, having a dedicated paralegal, and making a real difference in the lives of the clients you serve, the Unity House Senior Attorney position is the job for you!The Attorney will play a critical role in helping survivors navigate the legal system, particularly Family Court, housing court, small claims and matrimonial proceedings. The ideal candidate will be comfortable representing clients in court, advocating for survivor safety, and working with individuals who have experienced trauma.Full (37.5 hours) or part-time options available with this hybrid position.Salary posted is for full-time employment.This position may be eligible for a $5000 sign-on bonus for qualified individuals.ResponsibilitiesProvide direct legal representation in a variety of courts on matters related to domestic violence.Conduct client interviews, legal assessments, and safety-focused case strategy planning using a trauma-informed approach.Prepare and argue motions, draft petitions and legal pleadings, and appear in court for hearings, conferences, and trials.Work collaboratively with advocates, social service providers, and grant staff to support client needs and ensure compliance with grant reporting requirements.Supervise and provide guidance to a dedicated Paralegal supporting the legal program.Provide legal clinics, workshops, and community education on domestic violence and Court processes as required by funding sources.Connect clients with community resources and supportive services when appropriate.Promote a workplace culture that values inclusion, belonging, and respect.RequirementsAdmission to the New York State Bar and eligibility to practice law in New York.Five years of relevant litigation experience.Demonstrated experience representing clients in New York Family Court strongly preferred.Five years of experience handling orders of protection, custody, visitation, family offense, housing, small claims and divorce matters required.Minimum of three years of experience working with survivors of domestic violence or a similar vulnerable population.Strong understanding of trauma-informed legal practice and the dynamics of domestic violence.Excellent organizational, analytical, and case management skills.Ability to manage multiple active cases and court deadlines in a fast-paced environment.Strong written and verbal advocacy skills, including courtroom presentation.Valid New York State driver's license and reliable transportation.Unity House is a Rensselaer County-based human service agency that provides a wide range of services to meet the otherwise unmet needs of people in our community who are hurting and struggling. We assist those who are living in poverty, adults living with mental illness or HIV/AIDS, victims of domestic violence, and children with developmental delays. We work to achieve social justice in our community and to create a better understanding of those we serve.As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we commit ourselves to recruiting, hiring, training, and promoting persons in all job classifications without regard to race, color, age, sex, creed, disability, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, predisposing genetic characteristics national origin, domestic violence victim status, familial status, marital status, military status, pregnancy related condition, arrest and/or criminal conviction record, or any other category protected by law, unless based upon a bona fide occupational qualification or other exception.Join us in making life better for individuals impacted by domestic violence.