Job Description

Division/Unit: Appeals Division

Position Title: Appeals Paralegal

Civil Service Title: Community Associate

Salary Range: $49, 000 - $51, 984

Job Description:
The New York County District Attorney's Office anticipates openings beginning in the late spring and summer of 2024 for Paralegals in its Appeals Division. The Appeals Division provides New York's appellate and federal courts with in-depth written and oral analyses of legal and factual issues, arising from a wide range of criminal prosecutions, to ensure that properly obtained convictions are upheld and that no defect in the trial-level proceedings unduly affects either the public or the accused. Paralegals are responsible for providing a full range of administrative and litigation support to the attorneys in the Appeals Division.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Regularly write an elementary legal brief with a designated attorney.
• Assist attorneys with all aspects of filing briefs, such as proofreading, cite-checking, and locating files and documents.
• Maintain and update the Division's digital case tracking system.
• Perform institutional assignments related to motions practice, exhibits coordination, etc.
• Communicate with defense attorneys and various courts regarding status of appeals.
• Work closely with the Records Department to locate sensitive case materials.
• Perform related administrative and clerical tasks as assigned.

In addition to the Minimum Qualification Requirements, all candidates must possess the following:

• Level 1 - bachelor's degree from an accredited college.
• Level 2 - bachelor's degree from an accredited college and one (1) year of experience either as a paralegal in the criminal justice field or equivalent.
• Level 3 - bachelor's degree from an accredited college and two (2) years of experience either as a paralegal in the criminal justice field or equivalent.

Preferred Skills:

• Excellent interpersonal, organizational, communication, and writing skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office.
• Ability to edit existing databases.
• Ability to work with frequent interruptions and adapt to changes in workflow.
• Ability to work independently and manage deadlines.
• Ability to follow directions and apply proper policies, procedures, and guidelines.
• Strong attention to detail and high concern for data accuracy.
• Ability to interact with all levels of staff and court representatives.

How to Apply:

• Submit a Cover Letter, Resume, 5 - 7-page Writing Sample, 3 Professional References, and Transcript.

Hours/Shift:

• Monday - Friday, from 9: 00 am to 5: 00 pm.

Additional Information:

• Current office employees: To be eligible for a transfer or promotion, staff must have already served at least 1 year in their current position and be in good standing. In addition, must meet the minimum qualifications of the position.
• Looking for candidates that could commit to one (1) year to the Appeals Division.
• Authorization to work in the United States is required for this position.

Minimum Qualification Requirements:

1. High school graduation or equivalent and three years of experience in community work or community centered activities in an area related to duties described above; or
2. Education and/or experience which is equivalent to \"1\" above.

Public Svc Loan Forgiveness:

• As a prospective employee of the City of New York, you may be eligible for federal loan forgiveness programs and state repayment assistance programs. For more information, please visit the U.S. Department of Education's website at https: //studentaid.gov/pslf/ .

Residency Requirement:

• City Residency is not required for this position.

The New York County District Attorney's Office is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.About Us

The New York County District Attorney's Office serves and protects the People of New York through the fair administration of justice, without fear or favor. The Office's professional staff perform a variety of key functions, including supporting the Trial, Investigation, and Appeals Divisions, as well as other prosecution support and office functions. Our support staff receive a competitive salary and a generous benefits package, as well as unparalleled opportunities for professional development.

The New York County District Attorney's Office is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse and culturally responsive workforce. Given the diverse nature of our community, the ability to work with people of different backgrounds is critical. The Office seeks to have a staff that reflects the diversity of the community that we serve. To that end, all applicants will be considered without regard to actual or perceived race, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, marital or parental status, disability, sex, gender identity or expression, age, prior record of arrest; or any other basis prohibited by law. These protections extend to all management practices and decisions, including recruitment and hiring practices, appraisal systems, promotions, training, and career development programs.About the Team

The Professional Staff Recruitment Team at DANY supports the Office's initiatives to have a staff that reflects the diversity of the community that we serve. We seek employees that are interested in a career in the public sector and will support the Office's initiative of Moving Justice Forward.

For questions or inquiries, please contact Recruitment@dany.nyc.gov.