Assistant Counsel (Criminal Defense Representation Counsel, Region D) - VID 156199

Minimum Qualifications Juris Doctorate, admission to or willingness to seek admission to New York State Bar, and a minimum of two years experience in criminal defense representation.

Preferred Qualifications: An ideal candidate will have four or more years of experience in public defense and demonstrate a strong commitment to promoting high quality and mission-driven public defense, a high degree of professionalism and collegiality, sound judgment, and strong oral and written communication skills.

Duties Description The Albany-based Criminal Defense Representation Counsel will work to assure that the reforms initiated by the Hurrell-Harring settlement and its extension statewide under Executive Law 832(4) will be implemented effectively in New York State, specifically in Region D which consists of Clinton, Essex, Franklin, Fulton, Hamilton, Montgomery, Warren, and Washington counties. The Criminal Defense Representation Counsel will report to a Deputy Criminal Defense Representation Chief, who works under the guidance of the Criminal Defense Representation Chief. This position is responsible for the effective implementation of Executive Law 832(4)(a) (counsel at arraignment), 832(4)(b) (caseload relief), and 832(4)(c) (initiatives to improve quality), as well as monitoring implementation and efficacy of these reforms in Region D.

Specific duties include:
Under the supervision of the Deputy Criminal Defense Representation Chief, and in collaboration with the Criminal Defense Representation team, works toward successful implementation of the ILS reform plans within the region, identifies challenges to implementation, and works with county officials and providers of public defense to develop creative solutions to meet the challenges.
Consults with the providers of legal representation in the Region D counties and other responsible officials to identify opportunities for enhancing the quality of criminal defense representation provided under article 18-B of the County Law.
Facilitates the development and implementation of regional initiatives to improve the quality of public criminal defense representation.
Assists with the implementation and monitoring of caseload/workload standards in criminal cases for each provider of mandated representation in the Region D counties, including representation in both trial and appellate-level cases.
Works with the Region D providers and counties to ensure that eligible individuals receive quality defense representation at arraignment and monitor progress of the structures put in place to achieve this goal.
Assists in maximizing the use of state funding by Region D counties and public defense providers, including negotiating budgets for ILS contracts with providers and counties within the region.
Provides consultation to public defense attorneys upon request.
Works closely with the ILS Research Unit to ensure collection and reporting of all relevant data, and with the ILS Parental Representation Unit and Appellate Support Center to identify areas where quality improvement and greater efficiencies may be achieved.
Consults regularly with the other ILS staff to problem-solve and promote improved quality representation.
Undertakes other activities requested by the Director and Counsel in furtherance of the Offices overall responsibility to make efforts to improve the quality of indigent legal services representation under County Law article 18-B.

Additional Comments The mission of Indigent Legal Services (ILS) is to improve the representation provided to people facing criminal charges or Family Court proceedings who cannot afford counsel. Our agencys work is transforming criminal defense and parental representation, while helping people in crisis achieve greater justice in criminal cases and maintain family integrity. Join us to help shape policy and practice statewide and to have a profound impact on justice statewide. Become part of a team of dedicated professionals who share your commitment to a more fair and just society.

ILS is committed to creating and maintaining an inclusive, diverse, and equitable workplace. These values not only guide our work; we believe they are essential to fulfilling our mission to improve mandated representation in New York State. ILS staff share responsibility for creating a more inclusive workplace. Diverse voices and perspectives only strengthen our ability to create transformational change. Candidates from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

ILS welcomes candidates regardless of age, race, creed, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, military or veteran status, disability, predisposing genetic characteristics, marital or family status, domestic violence victim status, or arrest record or criminal conviction history.

We offer a comprehensive New York State benefits package, including:
Medical, Prescription, Dental and Vision Care Benefits
Life Insurance
Paid Personal Leave, Vacation, Sick Leave, and Holidays
Paid Family Leave
Health Care Spending Account
Dependent Care Advantage Account
Membership in the New York State and Local Employees Retirement System
Voluntary Defined Contribution Plan
Deferred Compensation Plan

ILS employees are eligible to apply to telecommute part-time and/or adjust work hours in accordance with ILSs policies, subject to supervisor approval.

The Capital Region is a great place to live with a low cost-of living in neighborhoods ranging from urban to rural within a short commute. Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast or an arts aficionado, there is something for everyone. From the beautiful mountains that surround the city to the historic churches and museums and pre-Revolutionary War architecture. With a 300-year history, theres much to enjoy and explore.

Employees may be able to receive loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF). For more information on PSLF, please visit www.studentaid.gov/publicservice.

The State of New York is committed to assuring equal opportunity for persons with disabilities. Requests for reasonable accommodations should be submitted to the Designee for Reasonable Accommodations (DRA) and Americans with Disabilities Act Coordinator at [email protected]

*Please note, this position is temporary pending final approval from the Civil Service Commission. Any potential appointment will serve at the pleasure of the appointing authority and the employment relationship can be altered at any time by either party.


NOTE ON TELECOMMUTING: Employees are required to apply and obtain approval through management to telecommute according to the agencys Telecommuting Program Guidelines.

Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity.