Supervising Attorney – Criminal Appeals Bureau (CAB)

The Criminal Appeals Bureau (CAB) of The Legal Aid Society provides legal representation for people who have been convicted of a crime and cannot afford to pay an attorney. CAB is the largest post-conviction public defender in New York City, annually serving over 1,000 people with misdemeanor and felony convictions.

Through our appellate practice, CAB advocates against the unjust and illegal judgments in the criminal legal system. CAB’s model of litigation provides well-researched and rigorous legal advocacy while centering our clients and their stories in the process. Together, the CAB team – attorneys, paralegals, social workers, and other staff – represent our clients in New York’s appellate courts, as well as in varied ancillary proceedings including sex offender registration hearings and state postconviction practice. Additionally, CAB’s holistic practice, in partnership with the many other units of The Legal Aid Society, addresses both the direct and the collateral consequences of convictions that profoundly impact a person.

The Supervising Attorney is responsible for the guidance and support of staff attorneys in the development of CAB’s post-conviction practice. Supervising attorneys will assist in the discussion of case theory, the review of litigation documents, and the counseling around client-centered representation. Supervising attorneys will also participate in managing the varied needs of the Criminal Appeals Bureau, including oversight of particular projects, providing advice on unit-wide policies, and maintaining an inclusive office culture that centers equity.

The ideal candidate is a motivated leader that values teaching and mentoring, innovation, and professional development. The candidate should understand the vital role public defenders play in challenging systemic racism and oppression through direct in-person litigation of the people we are honored to serve. This candidate will consciously create and enhance a diverse and affirming workplace culture that is supportive, collaborative, and affirming to our clients and colleagues.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES

• Counsel and advise staff attorneys and pro bono volunteer lawyers in all facets of post-conviction representation, including record review, issue selection, appellate brief writing, oral argument, and client communication
• Review and revise pleadings in preparation for filing
• Directly mentor staff attorneys through regular one-on-one meetings, regular feedback, and annual evaluations in order to foster professional development and growth
• Facilitate team discussions that allow attorneys to brainstorm and work collaboratively towards better outcomes on cases
• Provide training on substantive areas of law as well as the practice of managing a high-volume, post-conviction caseload
• Screen cases for potential issues to raise on appeal or in other post-conviction litigation
• Engage in strategic planning to increase the efficiency of CAB and ensure that clients continue to receive the highest quality representation
• Lead and oversee specific project areas within CAB
• Carry a small caseload, as necessary, and other duties as assigned