Special Counsel

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The New York State Unified Court System is seeking an Assistant Deputy Counsel in the Franklin H. Williams Judicial Commission
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The Assistant Deputy Counsel assists the Executive Director and Commission leadership in researching, drafting, and implementing initiatives that promote racial and ethnic fairness and improve access to justice within the New York State Unified Court System. Under the supervision of the Executive Director, this position involves extensive legal and policy research, preparation of reports, policy recommendations and publications addressing diversity, access to justice, and court improvement, as well as oversight of the development and execution of conferences, town halls, and educational programs.

The Assistant Deputy Counsel assists in the supervision of counsels, analysts, and interns, works collaboratively with judges, court administrators, and community partners, and exercises sound professional judgment in handling confidential and sensitive matters.

• Conducts detailed legal and policy research and prepares written analyses on issues involving access to justice, diversity, inclusion, and court system improvement.
• Drafts clear, concise, and well-organized reports, memoranda, correspondence, and other publications on behalf of the Commission.
• Synthesizes data and stakeholder feedback into research-based policy recommendations and Commission reports.
• Assists in supervising the work of counsels, analysts, interns, and other Commission staff, ensuring quality and consistency of deliverables.
• Collaborates with court leadership, judges, and external partners to identify and address barriers to equity and inclusion within the court system.
• Applies knowledge of laws and rules governing civil, criminal, and appellate practice, the New York State and Federal Constitutions, administrative law, and legal terminology and procedure.
• Assists with drafting legislative proposals.
• Organizes and presents legal and factual data in clear, logical, and persuasive formats.
• Assists in the planning, coordination, and implementation of Commission programs, town halls, and professional development academies.
• Engages with bar associations, community organizations, and court stakeholders, to advance Commission initiatives.
• Supervises and coordinates the activities of interns and staff as assigned.
• Contributes to the development of pipeline and mentorship programs introducing students to careers in the law and the courts.
• Works collaboratively to ensure the successful execution of Commission programs and research projects.

Admission to the New York State Bar; and Two years of service in the Associate Counsel title; or Equivalent legal experience.

Full-time;

Location:

New York, NY. Salary range and additional postings vary by posting. Please view the full employment announcement for details.