Paralegal, START Act & Women’s Defense Project

BDS; New York (NY); On-site; USD 73,000 - 78,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

403(b) retirement plan

Generous vacation and leave policies

Job summary

Brooklyn Defender Services (BDS) seeks a Paralegal to join the Women’s Defense Project within the Criminal Defense Practice in Brooklyn. The role focuses on START Act relief for trafficking survivors, working with WDP attorneys to identify eligible clients and draft motions.

The Paralegal will interview clients, gather documents, maintain files, and coordinate with prosecutors and courts. A degree or paralegal experience is required; strong organization and communication skills are essential.

Qualifications

• College degree or paralegal/legal assistant experience required.
• Experience preparing legal documents preferred.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Work with WDP attorneys to identify clients eligible for START relief.
• Assist in interviewing clients and collateral contacts.
• Gather documentation for START motions.
• Draft and submit START motions to prosecutors and courts.
• Maintain accurate digital and paper files and enter data into Case Management System.
• Draft requests for documents from various agencies.
• Obtain copies of court files and dispositions.
• Follow confidentiality policies to safeguard client information.
• Request transcripts from court proceedings.
• Additional responsibilities as assigned.

Skills

Strong organizational skills

Excellent written and verbal communic

Ability to work independently and in a

Multitasking and time management

Experience with START Act or criminal 

Willingness to learn case management

Education

College degree or four years of paralegal/legal assistant experience

Tools

Adobe Pro

Microsoft 365 Suite

Job description

Brooklyn Defender Services (BDS) seeks a Paralegal to join the Women’s Defense Project within the Criminal Defense Practice in Brooklyn. The role focuses on START Act relief for trafficking survivors, working with WDP attorneys to identify eligible clients and draft motions.

The Paralegal will interview clients, gather documents, maintain files, and coordinate with prosecutors and courts. A degree or paralegal experience is required; strong organization and communication skills are essential.