Entry-Level Criminal Defense Attorney – NYC Trial Advocate

Yourlegalaid; New York (NY); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

PSLF eligibility

Loan forgiveness support

Equal Employment Opportunity employer

Job summary

The Legal Aid Society in New York City seeks entry-level Staff Attorneys for the Criminal Defense Practice across five boroughs. Open to 0–3 years’ experience, admitted to NYS Bar or eligible to practice under applicable rules. Responsibilities span arraignment through trial, with a focus on zealous advocacy and client-centered representation.

Deadline December 2, 2026; rolling interviews and offers. OCI, two rounds of interviews, reference checks.

Qualifications

• Be admitted to the New York State Bar or law school graduate eligible to practice under The Legal Aid Society's Practice Order
• Have knowledge of the law of evidence, criminal and constitutional law, statutory interpretation, and ethical principles contained in the Rules of Professional Conduct
• A demonstrated commitment to serving racially and socioeconomically marginalized communities and an understanding of the racial disparities affecting client communities
• The ability to work collegially and collaboratively with others

Responsibilities

• Responsible for the full holistic representation of clients on misdemeanor and felony matters, including counseling, motions, plea negotiations, investigations, discovery review, witness interviews and trial preparation
• Engage in frequent court appearances and litigation, including arraignments, bail reviews and writs of habeas corpus, preliminary conferences and examinations, hearings and trials
• Interview clients and families, conduct legal research, and prepare memoranda and pre-pleading letters and motions
• Coordinate work with defense team members such as investigators, social workers, paralegals, and others
• Work with cross-practice colleagues to obtain comprehensive legal outcomes for clients
• File motions, briefs, and other documents promptly and accurately
• Handle ancillary proceedings related to criminal cases
• Other duties as assigned

Education

Juris Doctor (JD) or equivalent

Job description

The Legal Aid Society in New York City seeks entry-level Staff Attorneys for the Criminal Defense Practice across five boroughs. Open to 0–3 years’ experience, admitted to NYS Bar or eligible to practice under applicable rules. Responsibilities span arraignment through trial, with a focus on zealous advocacy and client-centered representation.

Deadline December 2, 2026; rolling interviews and offers. OCI, two rounds of interviews, reference checks.