Out Professionals
Attorney-in-Charge, New York County Trial Office The Legal Aid Society Justice i
Out Professionals, New York, New York, us, 10261
Attorney-in-Charge, New York County Trial Office #25-151
New York, New York, United States Deadline: 3:00 PM EST for the date listed Sep 11, 2025 Job Description
The Legal Aid Society’s Criminal Defense Practices seeks a visionary and justice-driven Attorney-in-Charge (AIC) to lead its New York County trial office. This role is ideal for a dynamic leader who is deeply committed to trial litigation and advocacy, racial justice and equity, transformative public defense, and the growth and empowerment of interdisciplinary teams. The AIC will guide and collaborate with a diverse staff of attorneys, social workers, paralegals, and support professionals, fostering a culture of excellence, inclusion, and continuous learning. With a strong foundation in trial advocacy and team leadership, the AIC will champion representation that centers the dignity and humanity of every client. The AIC will directly manage a leadership team consisting of Supervising Attorneys and other related managers across the Trial Office. This position is about more than managing operations—it’s about inspiring a new generation of public defenders, investing in their professional development, and ensuring an affirming workplace. The AIC will collaborate across the Legal Aid Society and with external partners to advance systemic change, reduce harm, and uphold the organization’s mission of equal justice for all. As a key member of the Criminal Defense Practice’s leadership, the AIC will help shape strategic priorities, mentor emerging leaders, and build bridges with communities most impacted by the criminal legal system. This is a unique opportunity to lead with purpose, advocate with integrity, and make a lasting impact on the lives of New Yorkers. The Legal Aid Society is the nation’s oldest and largest nonprofit law firm, rooted in the belief that justice should belong to everyone—not just those who can afford it. For nearly a century and a half, we have stood alongside New Yorkers who have been silenced, marginalized, or criminalized—offering not just legal representation, but a powerful voice for dignity, equity, and systemic change. With a presence in every borough and an reach that spans over 300,000 legal matters annually, our Civil, Criminal Defense, and Juvenile Rights Practices provide an unparalleled depth of expertise to the city’s most vulnerable communities. Whether in courtrooms, communities, or policy arenas, we are committed to breaking down barriers to justice and building a more equitable future for all. Essential Duties and Responsibilities
As Attorney-in-Charge, you will serve as a
transformational leader
for the New York County Criminal Defense Trial Office—guiding a team of passionate advocates committed to justice, equity, and community-centered defense. Primary responsibilities include: Embrace the evolving needs of the office and the communities it serves, taking on additional responsibilities as needed to advance the mission Lead with vision and compassion, overseeing daily operations while cultivating a culture of excellence, inclusion, and mutual respect Inspire and empower a multidisciplinary team of attorneys, investigators, social workers, paralegals, and support staff to deliver holistic, client-centered advocacy Champion racial equity and social justice, ensuring that every aspect of the office’s work reflects a deep commitment to dismantling systemic racism and uplifting impacted communities Serve as a bridge-builder, representing the office in critical conversations with the District Attorney’s Office, the Office of Court Administration, elected officials, and community partners Respond with integrity to the needs and concerns of clients, staff, and community members, fostering trust and transparency Assess and advocate for resources necessary to support staff well-being, professional growth, and sustainable workloads Shape legal strategy with creativity and courage, approaching every case with rigor, innovation, and a commitment to justice Model collaborative leadership, encouraging open communication, shared decision-making, and collective accountability Mentor and develop leaders, investing in the growth of supervisory staff and nurturing the next generation of public defenders Prioritize professional development, creating opportunities for learning, reflection, and advancement across all roles Oversee overall Manhattan Trial Office operations, including recruitment, staff retention, development, and performance evaluation Balance competing demands with clarity, empathy, and strategic foresight Perform additional duties as needed or assigned Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
Licensed to practice law in New York State or able to waive into New York from another jurisdiction 15+ years of criminal defense experience, with a strong foundation in litigation and trial advocacy 10+ years of leadership and management experience, with a proven ability to guide diverse, interdisciplinary teams Demonstrated commitment to transformative legal practice, including holistic defense and community engagement A deep understanding of racial equity, anti-oppression frameworks, and the role of public defenders in systemic change A passion for mentorship, coaching, and professional development, with a track record of building inclusive, empowered teams Exceptional communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills Strong legal research and writing abilities, with fluency in relevant technologies Experience in recruiting, hiring, and retaining diverse talent A collaborative spirit and steadfast belief in the power of teamwork to drive meaningful change Preferred Qualifications:
Experience working with NY Office of Court Administration and the District Attorney of New York County (DANY) Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Organizational Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Commitment to the Legal Aid Society’s mission to secure equal justice for all New Yorkers. Interpersonal and communication skills that enable healthy and productive working relationships Ability to perform duties with the highest regard for confidentiality, integrity, and respect Commitment to the Society’s values and mission Physical, Environmental, Travel, and Other Duties
Mostly sedentary, with significant computer use and virtual communication Occasional physical movement may be required to perform essential functions, including bending, reaching, and standing Travel within NYC boroughs may be required Salary and Benefits
The salary range is an estimate of what we expect to pay for this role. Actual salary may vary based on knowledge, skills, experience, and union considerations. Salary Range: $195,755 The Society offers a generous benefits package including health insurance, paid vacation, disability, life insurance, and more.
Click here to read more about benefits. Higher Education and Loan Forgiveness
The Society is a qualified employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program, and employees may be eligible for other loan forgiveness programs. For more information, visit the links below. studentaid.gov hesc.ny.gov/loan-forgiveness-programs Work Authorization
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship. We are currently unable to sponsor visas or permits, except for Canadians and Mexicans eligible for TN visas with documentation. How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online via the career portal. Please combine your cover letter, resume, and writing sample into a single PDF. In your cover letter, include your leadership experience and team details. For questions, contact
jobpostquestions@legal-aid.org . Equal Employment Opportunity
The Society prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, disability, marital status, and other protected characteristics. Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
We are dedicated to fostering a work environment of advocacy, respect, diversity, and inclusion, and to dismantling bias and systemic oppression in all forms. Location:
Manhattan – Criminal Defense Practice Office
#J-18808-Ljbffr
New York, New York, United States Deadline: 3:00 PM EST for the date listed Sep 11, 2025 Job Description
The Legal Aid Society’s Criminal Defense Practices seeks a visionary and justice-driven Attorney-in-Charge (AIC) to lead its New York County trial office. This role is ideal for a dynamic leader who is deeply committed to trial litigation and advocacy, racial justice and equity, transformative public defense, and the growth and empowerment of interdisciplinary teams. The AIC will guide and collaborate with a diverse staff of attorneys, social workers, paralegals, and support professionals, fostering a culture of excellence, inclusion, and continuous learning. With a strong foundation in trial advocacy and team leadership, the AIC will champion representation that centers the dignity and humanity of every client. The AIC will directly manage a leadership team consisting of Supervising Attorneys and other related managers across the Trial Office. This position is about more than managing operations—it’s about inspiring a new generation of public defenders, investing in their professional development, and ensuring an affirming workplace. The AIC will collaborate across the Legal Aid Society and with external partners to advance systemic change, reduce harm, and uphold the organization’s mission of equal justice for all. As a key member of the Criminal Defense Practice’s leadership, the AIC will help shape strategic priorities, mentor emerging leaders, and build bridges with communities most impacted by the criminal legal system. This is a unique opportunity to lead with purpose, advocate with integrity, and make a lasting impact on the lives of New Yorkers. The Legal Aid Society is the nation’s oldest and largest nonprofit law firm, rooted in the belief that justice should belong to everyone—not just those who can afford it. For nearly a century and a half, we have stood alongside New Yorkers who have been silenced, marginalized, or criminalized—offering not just legal representation, but a powerful voice for dignity, equity, and systemic change. With a presence in every borough and an reach that spans over 300,000 legal matters annually, our Civil, Criminal Defense, and Juvenile Rights Practices provide an unparalleled depth of expertise to the city’s most vulnerable communities. Whether in courtrooms, communities, or policy arenas, we are committed to breaking down barriers to justice and building a more equitable future for all. Essential Duties and Responsibilities
As Attorney-in-Charge, you will serve as a
transformational leader
for the New York County Criminal Defense Trial Office—guiding a team of passionate advocates committed to justice, equity, and community-centered defense. Primary responsibilities include: Embrace the evolving needs of the office and the communities it serves, taking on additional responsibilities as needed to advance the mission Lead with vision and compassion, overseeing daily operations while cultivating a culture of excellence, inclusion, and mutual respect Inspire and empower a multidisciplinary team of attorneys, investigators, social workers, paralegals, and support staff to deliver holistic, client-centered advocacy Champion racial equity and social justice, ensuring that every aspect of the office’s work reflects a deep commitment to dismantling systemic racism and uplifting impacted communities Serve as a bridge-builder, representing the office in critical conversations with the District Attorney’s Office, the Office of Court Administration, elected officials, and community partners Respond with integrity to the needs and concerns of clients, staff, and community members, fostering trust and transparency Assess and advocate for resources necessary to support staff well-being, professional growth, and sustainable workloads Shape legal strategy with creativity and courage, approaching every case with rigor, innovation, and a commitment to justice Model collaborative leadership, encouraging open communication, shared decision-making, and collective accountability Mentor and develop leaders, investing in the growth of supervisory staff and nurturing the next generation of public defenders Prioritize professional development, creating opportunities for learning, reflection, and advancement across all roles Oversee overall Manhattan Trial Office operations, including recruitment, staff retention, development, and performance evaluation Balance competing demands with clarity, empathy, and strategic foresight Perform additional duties as needed or assigned Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
Licensed to practice law in New York State or able to waive into New York from another jurisdiction 15+ years of criminal defense experience, with a strong foundation in litigation and trial advocacy 10+ years of leadership and management experience, with a proven ability to guide diverse, interdisciplinary teams Demonstrated commitment to transformative legal practice, including holistic defense and community engagement A deep understanding of racial equity, anti-oppression frameworks, and the role of public defenders in systemic change A passion for mentorship, coaching, and professional development, with a track record of building inclusive, empowered teams Exceptional communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills Strong legal research and writing abilities, with fluency in relevant technologies Experience in recruiting, hiring, and retaining diverse talent A collaborative spirit and steadfast belief in the power of teamwork to drive meaningful change Preferred Qualifications:
Experience working with NY Office of Court Administration and the District Attorney of New York County (DANY) Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Organizational Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Commitment to the Legal Aid Society’s mission to secure equal justice for all New Yorkers. Interpersonal and communication skills that enable healthy and productive working relationships Ability to perform duties with the highest regard for confidentiality, integrity, and respect Commitment to the Society’s values and mission Physical, Environmental, Travel, and Other Duties
Mostly sedentary, with significant computer use and virtual communication Occasional physical movement may be required to perform essential functions, including bending, reaching, and standing Travel within NYC boroughs may be required Salary and Benefits
The salary range is an estimate of what we expect to pay for this role. Actual salary may vary based on knowledge, skills, experience, and union considerations. Salary Range: $195,755 The Society offers a generous benefits package including health insurance, paid vacation, disability, life insurance, and more.
Click here to read more about benefits. Higher Education and Loan Forgiveness
The Society is a qualified employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program, and employees may be eligible for other loan forgiveness programs. For more information, visit the links below. studentaid.gov hesc.ny.gov/loan-forgiveness-programs Work Authorization
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship. We are currently unable to sponsor visas or permits, except for Canadians and Mexicans eligible for TN visas with documentation. How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online via the career portal. Please combine your cover letter, resume, and writing sample into a single PDF. In your cover letter, include your leadership experience and team details. For questions, contact
jobpostquestions@legal-aid.org . Equal Employment Opportunity
The Society prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, disability, marital status, and other protected characteristics. Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
We are dedicated to fostering a work environment of advocacy, respect, diversity, and inclusion, and to dismantling bias and systemic oppression in all forms. Location:
Manhattan – Criminal Defense Practice Office
#J-18808-Ljbffr