Paralegal- Two Year Program

Overview

Federal Defenders of New York, Inc. (FDNY) has an opening for a paralegal position in our Brooklyn office (EDNY). This job is an extraordinary opportunity to gain substantive exposure to criminal law and direct service work. Paralegals are typically hired for a term of two years, but may be able to extend their terms, if desired, depending on the needs of the office.

FDNY is a nonprofit organization providing criminal defense services to indigent people charged with federal crimes throughout New York City, Long Island, and several counties north of New York City. We are not a government agency, and our employees are not government employees. Our mission is straightforward: although we provide our services free of cost, our clients should receive the finest legal representation available at any price. We are committed to equal justice and fight vigorously for those accused of crimes. A large part of our caseload involves immigration-related offenses, drugs, fraud, bank robbery, firearms, and internet-related crimes.

We value diversity and believe better legal representation occurs when members of the defense team have diverse backgrounds and experience. For more information about our office generally, please visit our website at www.federaldefendersny.org.

Major Duties and Responsibilities

Paralegals work closely with trial attorneys and their clients, as well as a team of investigators, social workers, and administrative staff, on every step of federal criminal cases, from arrest to acquittal or sentencing to re-entry. Paralegals in the Brooklyn office typically work on approximately 50-70 cases along with the office’s 18 trial attorneys.

Paralegals will develop a wide range of knowledge, skills, and abilities, from administrative tasks to complex document review to direct client support. Paralegals conduct client interviews, help prepare bail packages, speak to witnesses, review evidence, help to retain experts, and collect and review mitigation materials from clients, their families, hospitals, schools, and drug treatment programs. Paralegals are expected to successfully manage multiple deadlines at once and to be detail oriented.

Paralegals also often travel beyond the office. They regularly attend court appearances, visit with clients at federal jails , and assist with investigations in the field. They have the extraordinary opportunity to sit at counsel table at trials and hearings on a regular basis. A crucial aspect of the position is collaboration with multiple members of our office including attorneys, social workers, investigators, and support staff.

Ideal Candidates

Ideal candidates have an interest in and commitment to the FDNY mission. They are self-directed learners who demonstrate initiative, critical thinking and time management and organizational skills. The ability to work well both independently and in collaboration with others are important criteria. Communication skills and interpersonal sensitivity are key competencies for the job, along with a commitment to timeliness and the highest quality of work. Familiarity with legal terminology and practices or working one-on-one with clients are desirable but not required. Fluency in Spanish, Arabic or French is highly desirable but not required.

Minimum Qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree or higher (awarded no later than June 2024)
• Basic understanding of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• NY City area residence (at start of employment)
• Ability to regularly work 40+ hours per week, 9am – 5pm EST, including some nights and weekends (eligible for overtime pay)

Additional Information

This position is covered by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) with 1199 SEIU. Salary and benefits areconsistent with the CBA. We are an equal opportunity employer and are actively engagedin creating and maintaining a work environment characterized by diversity, equity, and inclusion.