Managing Attorney – Misdemeanor Defense Program; Non-Profit

Pay: $ - $ per year

• Lead and build a brand-new misdemeanor defense program launching in early 2026
• True leadership role with authority to design structure, standards, and culture
• Executive-level visibility and direct reporting to the Executive Director
• Large, well-resourced team already funded and approved
• Predictable schedule with strong work-life balance
• Mission-driven work making a direct impact in the community

Hybrid role based in Syracuse, New York with regular in-court and office presence

Must be admitted to the New York Bar and have significant criminal defense experience with the ability to supervise and mentor attorneys

Our client is a long-standing nonprofit legal services organization dedicated to providing high-quality representation to underserved communities. They are launching a county-funded Misdemeanor Defense Program to deliver comprehensive representation from arraignment through disposition in Syracuse City Court, including traffic and problem-solving courts.

• Launch and oversee a newly created Misdemeanor Defense Program
• Supervise a multidisciplinary team including attorneys, investigator, social worker, and legal assistants
• Set practice standards, workflows, and performance expectations
• Manage caseload distribution and attorney assignments
• Mentor, train, and evaluate attorneys and staff
• Ensure high-quality courtroom advocacy and client-centered representation
• Build relationships with judges, court staff, and community partners
• Participate in budgeting, staffing, reporting, and executive planning

• Admission in good standing to the New York Bar
• 5+ years of criminal defense experience preferred
• Prior supervisory or mentoring experience strongly preferred
• Strong courtroom, writing, and leadership skills
• Commitment to public service and client advocacy
• Ability to operate in a fast-paced, high-volume environment

• Meaningful leadership role with real autonomy
• Mission-driven environment with supportive leadership
• Standard business hours with summer hours available
• Generous PTO and holiday schedule
• Excellent benefits and long-term stability

Job Type: Full-time

• Dental insurance
• Life insurance
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance