City Of New York

Fair Hearings Agency Attorney

City Of New York$92K — $106K *
Legal & Accounting
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Admission to the New York State Bar
  • One year of post-bar legal experience or six months as an Agency Attorney Interne
  • Experience in administrative hearings and family law preferred
  • Strong legal research and writing skills
  • Ability to manage a significant and complex caseload

Responsibilities

  • Represent the Commissioner in administrative hearings and Article 78 proceedings
  • Prepare and maintain comprehensive case files for court appearances
  • Interview witnesses and assess evidence admissibility
  • Collaborate with ACS programs and NYS OCFS representatives
  • Provide legal opinions and counsel to ACS staff
  • Draft legal documents including pleadings and motions
  • Conduct legal research and update knowledge on relevant case law

Benefits

  • Active engagement in complex legal work
  • Opportunities for professional development and legal growth
  • Collaboration with various legal entities within child welfare
  • Supportive environment with close supervision and guidance
  • Contribution to the agency's mission in serving children and families
Full Job Description
THE SELECTED CANDIDATE WILL BE OFFERED A SALARY BETWEEN $92,525 - $106,404.

The Fair Hearings & Compliance Unit (FHCU) within the Office of the General Counsel is seeking an Agency attorney. Staff attorneys appearing before the Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS)/Bureau of Special Hearings (BSH) primarily represent the Commissioner of the Administration for Children's Services in administrative hearings and/or related Article 78 proceedings before New York State tribunal(s) (NYS Office of Children and Family Services/Bureau of Special Hearings) and/or Courts (generally NYS Supreme Court) concerning indicated reports of child neglect, adoption subsidy payments and kinship guardianship payments, foster care rates and services or other such issues as may be required. In providing such representation, the attorney shall engage in a wide variety of legal tasks as needed, including the effective preparation of witnesses, evidence, and other trial-related initiatives.

Under close supervision, with some latitude for independent judgment action and decision, the attorney candidate will engage in difficult and complex legal work in the Office of the General Counsel (OGC) Fair Hearings & Compliance Unit to further the agency's mission on behalf of children and families.

Specific duties may include, but are not limited to the following:

- Maintain a significant caseload of complex and/or sensitive cases
- Prepare and maintain case files and documents in advance of court appearances.
- Interview witnesses and other relevant parties, reviewing relevant agency and third-party records and determining strength and admissibility of evidence.
- Liaise with other ACS programs including but not limited to adoption subsidy unit staff and executives.
- Liaise with NYS OCFS representatives including but not limited to adoption subsidy staff.
- Review and provide legal opinion and counsel to unit and other ACS program staff.
- Draft legal documents, including pleadings, motions, and memoranda by following generally acceptable legal procedures, forms, and techniques in order to meet agency needs, goals, and objectives.
- Conduct and/or assist with legal research and regularly reviewing relevant case law and regulations to support legal opinions.

ADDITONAL INFO:
Section 424-A of the New York Social Services Law requires an authorized agency to inquire whether a candidate for employment with child-caring responsibilities has been the subject of a child abuse and maltreatment report.

TO APPLY:
Please go to www.cityjobs.nyc.gov or www.nyc.gov/ess for current NYC employees and search for Job ID # 733920.
No phone calls, faxes or personal inquiries permitted.
Note: Only candidates under consideration will be contacted.

AGENCY ATTORNEY - 30087

1. Admission to the New York State Bar; and either "2" or "3" below.
2. One year of satisfactory United States legal experience subsequent to admission to any state bar; or
3. Six months of satisfactory service as an Agency Attorney Interne (30086).
Incumbents must remain Members of the New York State Bar in good standing for the duration of this employment.
In addition to meeting the minimum Qualification Requirements:
To be assigned to Assignment Level (AL) II, candidates must have one year of experience at Assignment Level I or two years of comparable legal experience subsequent to admission to the bar, in the areas of law related to the assignment. To be assigned to AL III candidates must have two years of experience in Assignment Levels I and/or II or three years of comparable legal experience subsequent to admission to the bar, in the areas of law related to the assignment.

About City Of New York

The City of New York is the most iconic and dynamic city on the planet. With a population of more than 8.4 million people, New York is not only the largest city in the United States — it is the academic, cultural, commercial, and financial capital of the world. City government is filled with opportunities for talented individuals seeking to improve their communities and make a meaningful difference in the lives of their fellow New Yorkers. Every day, the City’s more than 300,000 employees improve infrastructure, provide vital social services, build technology, protect health and safety, and so much more.

City of New York Careers

There has never been a better time to explore the diverse job opportunities at the City of New York—the hub of professional growth and innovation in the public sector.

Work You’ll Do

Join the City of New York’s dynamic team to contribute to the community and enhance the city’s services across a broad spectrum of disciplines. The City of New York offers a unique opportunity to engage in meaningful work that impacts the lives of millions while navigating through a career filled with learning and growth. Transform the metropolitan landscape and enrich the lives of its residents with the best minds in public administration, urban planning, and community services. The City of New York stands at the forefront of urban management and innovation. Lead with a unique position in public service, at the intersection of technology, community needs, and sustainable development. Work alongside a diverse team of professionals dedicated to improving city operations and enhancing the quality of urban life. Collaborate with the largest network of public service experts in the nation, fostering leadership, diversity training, and professional development.

Introducing the City of New York Public Service Careers

The team is building a market-leading public service career path to help professionals master their roles and contribute effectively to the city’s development.

Do Innovative Work

Join a vast network of experts—dedicated professionals at the intersection of governance, community service, and urban innovation.

Drive Change in Public Service

Deliver targeted solutions and policies that enhance city living and maintain New York as a leading global city through a depth and breadth of expertise that’s second to none.

Be Part of a Great Team

Engage in a wide range of city projects utilizing cutting-edge technology and strategies, harnessing the unparalleled capabilities, scale, and collaborative spirit of a dedicated public service team.

Future-proof Your Career

Advance your career with limitless opportunities in the public sector, supported by unmatched training, development programs, and certification support.

Explore

From improving city infrastructure to enhancing public safety, the City of New York offers a platform for professionals to apply their skills, innovate, and lead.

The City of New York Public Service Initiative

The combined efforts of various departments help overcome urban challenges and lead transformation in city management. Professionals around the globe look to the City of New York for new strategies and solutions to drive significant change and growth in urban living. ## Stay Connected

Join the Team

Search open positions that match your skills and interests. The City of New York looks for passionate, curious, creative, and solution-driven team players. SEARCH CITY OF NEW YORK JOBS

Keep Up to Date

Stay ahead with career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights you can put to use today—all from the people who serve here.

READ CAREERS BLOG

Job Alert Emails

Personalize your subscription to receive job alerts, latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Discover what exciting and rewarding opportunities await in the City of New York.
Learn more about City Of New York

Similar Jobs

More Jobs at City Of New York

More Legal & Accounting Jobs

Find similar Fair Hearings Agency Attorney jobs: