Position: Staff Attorney

Employment Type: Part time (20 Hours), Non-Exempt Hourly

Reports To: Administrative Director of Legal Services

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Position Summary:

Are you looking to take your career to the next level in a supportive and employee-centered work environment? Join our team, where we prioritize work/life balance and offer an exciting array of perks to enhance your professional and personal life. Enjoy access to our on-site gym, take advantage of our potential for hybrid or remote work, and savor the flexibility of summer hours. We believe in investing in our team, which is why we offer a comprehensive benefits package. While full-time work is preferred, we're open to part-time arrangements. If you're ready to thrive in a role that values your well-being and success, we want to hear from you!

At Mental Health Advocates, our legal work is dedicated to making a significant difference in the lives of individuals facing mental health challenges. We specialize in helping some of the most vulnerable members of the Western New York community solve problems and achieve their basic needs. Our team works across various legal subject areas, offering the opportunity to gain valuable experience and exposure to diverse cases. If you have a passion for promoting social justice and an interest in the mental health field, you'll thrive here as you help empower those who need it most.

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Essential Functions:

• Maintain a caseload of clients: representing them in court and before administrative and governmental agencies.
• Provide consultation, advice and referrals to mental health consumers, their families and mental health professionals.
• Carry out administrative policies of MHA.
• Maintain accurate, comprehensive case notes and time records for each client.
• Provide case support to Legal Services Program Director when requested.
• Provide statistical data necessary for reporting to funder on a regular and timely basis.
• Handle Information and Referral calls and make proper entries concerning these calls.
• Participate in staff meetings and staff trainings.
• Participate in Continuous Quality Improvement efforts for the program and for the agency.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

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Qualifications:

• Juris Doctor Degree from an accredited law school
• Be a member in good standing of the New York State Bar or eligible to become a member within reasonable time after beginning employment and maintain such standing through employment with the MHA.
• At least 1 year's experience working for low-income clients in housing, family court, Chapter 7 bankruptcy, or other area of poverty law OR demonstrated experience working with individuals suffering from mental illness.
• Ability to read and interpret government regulations.
• Thorough knowledge of legal research and ability to make independent legal judgments.
• Ability to do outreach to community groups to promote public awareness of Legal Services Program.
• Determine and understand the legal needs of mental health consumers in Erie and the surrounding Counties.
• Ability to demonstrate sensitivity, supportive and respectful approach to the needs of others.
• Evidence of the practice of high level of confidentiality.
• Above average oral and written communication skills.
• Sound, independent decision-making ability.
• Demonstrated ability to serve as a successful participant on the team under leadership and direction.
• Proficient computer skills in a Microsoft office environment (Word, Access, PowerPoint, etc.) or other current technology. Must include Excel and skills in database management and recordkeeping.
• Team-first attitude and a positive demeanor.

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Travel Requirements:

Incumbents must possess a valid Driver License and reliable transportation with the ability to travel within New York State, as well as nationally, if required

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described represent those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, and sit for long periods of time.

The employee is required to regularly reach with arms and hands; use hands to handle. Hands and fingers frequently perform repetitive motion including typing/keying.

Occasionally the employee will lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.

This job requires close vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus. Employee is required to regularly talk and hear.

_The above job description is not a contractual or binding document; it is provided as a guide to the types of duties required to be undertaken. Duties may vary from time to time, and this description is subject to review. Modifications will be made as needed to support changes in the business climate and requirements. _

The Mental Health Advocates of WNY is an equal employment opportunity employer. Employment decisions are based on merit and business needs, and not on race, color, citizenship status, national origin, ancestry, gender, sexual orientation, age, weight, religion, creed, physical or mental disability, marital status, veteran status, political affiliation, or any other factor protected by law.