Duties Description DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF WORK: Principal Attorneys serve in a confidential capacity in the Mental Hygiene Legal
Services, attorney disciplinary committees, departmental law-guardian offices, or other such units where they research legal
questions and issues, organize complex investigations, prepare and present complex cases before administrative tribunals and
trial and appellate courts, and perform related duties. Principal Attorneys may also assist in selecting and training new staff,
developing and implementing policies and procedures and in handling day-to-day administrative matters. They may also work with
advisory committees, assist with planning and executing educational programs, assist with resolving administrative problems, and
serve as director of a departmental law guardian office.
ASSIGNMENT: The Mental Hygiene Legal Service provides legal representation and advocacy to individuals with mental and developmental disabilities, and those alleged to be in need of mental health services, in matters including civil commitment, treatment over objection, guardianship, sex offender civil management, and assisted outpatient treatment. This position will serve as the Principal Attorney-In-Charge, managing the daily operations of a field office in collaboration with other Principal Attorneys who may be assigned. Under the direction of the Deputy Chief Attorney, the Principal Attorney-In-Charge supervises work assignments for attorneys and administrative staff; monitors time and attendance; procures goods and services; maintains statistical records and case files; manages the timely reporting and accurate entry of data into the agency's case management system; interfaces with building management on facility-related issues; participates in the structured interview process for prospective employees; provides training and skills development; and prepares performance evaluations and staff development plans. Excellent lawyering, communication and leadership skills are necessary. A valid driver license and car are required.
Minimum Qualifications POSITION TITLE: PRINCIPAL ATTORNEY JG: 31
LOCATION: MENTAL HYGIENE LEGAL SERVICE
POUGHKEEPSIE, DUTCHESS COUNTY
BASE SALARY: $130,061 + $2,460 LOCATION PAY
CLASSIFICATION: NON-COMPETITIVE/CONFIDENTIAL
QUALIFICATIONS: Admission to the New York State Bar and two (2) years of service in the Associate Attorney title; or Equivalent legal experience.
A valid driver license and car are required.
Name Eben R. Hill
Telephone
Fax
AddressStreet 600 Old Country Road
Suite 224
City GARDEN CITY
State NY
Zip Code 11530
Notes on Applying APPLICATION PROCEDURES: All interested persons meeting the minimum qualifications are encouraged to submit a UCS-5 Application for Employment form (obtainable from any administrative office in a court building or on the web at
www.nycourts.gov/careers/UCS5.pdf) and a resume and cover letter by email to
[email protected] or by mail to:
Eben Hill, Director
Mental Hygiene Legal Service
600 Old Country Road, Suite 224
Garden City, NY 11530
POSTING DATE: JUNE 29, 2026
APPLICATIONS MUST BE POSTMARKED OR RECEIVED BY: JULY 27, 2026