Staff Attorney (Civil Services) - Remote

Overview

The Staff Attorney (Civil Services) supports the Legal Department at GMHC in providing comprehensive civil legal services to low-income people living with HIV within New York City. The legal department support spans a wide range of civil matters, including housing, benefits, discrimination, family law, and advance planning. Services are designed to help clients maintain access to care, assert their legal rights, and address barriers that impact health and family stability. A particular focus is placed on assisting families with decisions related to future care and custody planning for minor children.

In Short

• Conduct comprehensive legal needs assessments at intake and reassess clients regularly to identify evolving needs.
• Provide legal counsel and representation in civil legal matters including housing, public benefits, healthcare access, consumer finance, discrimination, domestic violence, HIV confidentiality, and individual rights.
• Prepare advance planning documents such as wills, health care proxies, and living wills.
• Deliver family law services, focusing on future care and custody planning.
• Support transgender, non-binary, and gender non-conforming clients with legal issues.
• Educate clients about their legal rights and available protections.
• Maintain accurate records of client services and legal outcomes.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to support coordinated client care.
• Participate in funder site visits and program evaluations.
• Assist with preparing reports to meet program deliverables.

Requirements

• At least two years of experience in relevant legal practice areas.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Cultural competency to work with diverse populations.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and manage a caseload.
• Fluency in a language other than English is preferred.
• Prior experience in HIV-related legal services is preferred.
• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school is required.
• Admission to practice law in New York State is required.
• Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Excel is required.
• Familiarity with public benefits law is preferred.

Benefits

• Supportive work environment focused on equity and social justice.
• Opportunity to work with diverse communities.
• Flexible work schedule, including remote work options.
• Participation in community events like the annual AIDS Walk.
• Professional development opportunities.