Junior Criminal Defense Attorney - Queens Office

Brooklyn Defender Services; New York (NY); On-site; USD 90,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

403(b) retirement plan

Generous leave policies

Job summary

Brooklyn Defender Services invites entry-level attorneys to join the Criminal Defense Practice in the Queens Office beginning September 2027. The role supports clients in Queens Criminal and Supreme Courts, with training progressing from misdemeanors to more serious cases under supervision.

Applicants should have a JD by September 2027, with NY bar eligibility, and a commitment to public-interest work. Interdisciplinary collaboration is emphasized, with a strong emphasis on advocacy and client

Qualifications

• JD required by Sep 2027 start date.
• First NY bar exam after graduation.
• Experience in a law school clinic or public defense internship preferred.
• Demonstrated commitment to public interest and serving underrepresented communities.
• Ability to work collaboratively with interdisciplinary staff.
• Strong litigation and advocacy skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication; second language a plus.

Responsibilities

• Represent clients in Queens Criminal and Supreme Courts from intake to dismissal, plea or trial.
• Build strong attorney/client relationships and collaborate with interdisciplinary teams.
• Staff court arraignments on a rotating schedule including evenings and weekends.
• Prepare for and litigate hearings and trials; handle motions and discovery issues.
• Coordinate with housing, immigration, family defense, and education practices to aid clients.

Skills

Excellent litigation skills

Excellent written and verbal comms

Second language ability

Education

Juris Doctor (JD) anticipated

Job description

Brooklyn Defender Services invites entry-level attorneys to join the Criminal Defense Practice in the Queens Office beginning September 2027. The role supports clients in Queens Criminal and Supreme Courts, with training progressing from misdemeanors to more serious cases under supervision.

Applicants should have a JD by September 2027, with NY bar eligibility, and a commitment to public-interest work. Interdisciplinary collaboration is emphasized, with a strong emphasis on advocacy and client