Criminal Defense Client Advocate

New York County Defender Services; New York (NY); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

New York County Defender Services (NYCDS) is a nonprofit criminal defense law firm in Manhattan dedicated to providing high-quality representation. The Social Work Unit seeks a Client Advocate to support social work aspects of defense strategies in a team-based model.

This two-year position (with option to renew for a third year) involves client assessments, referrals to treatment programs, drafting memoranda, and collaboration with attorneys at various stages of criminal cases, including court

Qualifications

• Excellent organizational and communication skills required.
• Temperament to work on time-sensitive and intense cases.
• Experience in public defense social work preferred.
• Spanish language ability a plus.

Responsibilities

• Make referrals to mental health and social services after client interviews.
• Correspond with programs regarding client referrals and obtain compliance letters.
• Request relevant records including CHS and hospital records.
• Draft subpoenas and summarize medical records for attorneys.
• Escort clients to programs and support them in court appearances.
• Conduct weekly wellness checks and liaise with clients and families.

Skills

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Interpersonal skills

Spanish language (nice to have)

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Job description

New York County Defender Services (NYCDS) is a nonprofit criminal defense law firm in Manhattan dedicated to providing high-quality representation. The Social Work Unit seeks a Client Advocate to support social work aspects of defense strategies in a team-based model.

This two-year position (with option to renew for a third year) involves client assessments, referrals to treatment programs, drafting memoranda, and collaboration with attorneys at various stages of criminal cases, including court