Bronx Legal Services is the largest provider of free civil legal services in the borough and is part of Legal Services NYC’s network of local programs throughout New York City. Bronx Legal Services’ mission is to advance society’s promise to the most vulnerable members that they are entitled to equal access to our legal system.
The Bronx Legal Services Tenant Rights Coalition (“TRC”) works on anti-displacement advocacy in the Bronx, focusing on supporting Bronx communities facing significant housing needs in light of rapid and potentially disruptive neighborhood changes and gentrification. TRC comprises 22 dedicated attorneys and paralegals who work to preserve affordable and decent housing and prevent displacement and harassment.
We are looking for candidates who are excited to work in a fast-paced environment and juggle and support litigation and advocacy on various issues, coordinate building-wide and community-based litigation, and organize community education outreach and related initiatives. Responsibilities include directly supervising the work of TRC staff attorneys representing clients in both individual housing matters and multi-plaintiff affirmative cases, as well as supervising the work of paralegals providing litigation and administrative support. The TRC Supervising Attorney is expected to supervise regular appearances in civil, supreme, and federal court and administrative proceedings, review draft pleadings, motions, and court submissions, and support the filing of affirmative cases on behalf of tenants and tenant groups. The TRC Supervising Attorney will be expected to work closely with tenant organizers, tenant associations, and community partners to identify and address housing needs. They will be expected to oversee and conduct weekday, evening, and weekend outreach and off-site intake with our partners. The TRC Supervising Attorney will work closely with the management team of TRC to shape the direction of the Tenant Rights Coalition work in the Bronx.
Bronx Legal Services prides itself on its Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) efforts. As a social justice organization, we are committed to fighting for a workplace that is as diverse, equitable, and inclusive as possible for everyone. Our DEIB committee and numerous affinity groups work to foster collegial relationships among staff and allow staff to explore and advocate for racial justice and anti-oppression growth within our organization and through our legal work. All employees are expected to learn about, seek to understand, and work to realize our DEIB goals.
We seek an attorney admitted or eligible to waive into the New York State Bar with:
- A demonstrated passion for social justice and commitment to working with lowincome communities and communities of color;
- Demonstrated expertise in local, state, and federal housing law and policy, housing court practice, housing programs, and subsidies, and public benefits;
- Experience litigating affirmative cases of individuals or on behalf of groups of tenants, including motion practice and conducting discovery;
- Excellent legal writing, litigation, and advocacy skills;
- Strong interpersonal, teaching/training, and organizational skills;
- Strong ties to the communities of the Bronx (preferred);
- Experience working with community-based organizations and/or enthusiasm for partnering with community-based advocates and organizations; and
- An ability to speak Spanish is preferred but not required.
Our offices currently work on a hybrid model of in-person and remote work. Staff are expected to be in person approximately half the days of a pay period. Salary is commensurate with experience. Benefits include excellent health and dental insurance, an employer contribution to a pre-tax 403(b) pension plan, and generous leave time.
To apply, send a cover letter, resume, two recent writing samples, and the names of three references via e-mail to Sandra Sanchez, at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . The e-mail should include “Supervising Attorney, Tenant Rights Coalition” in the subject line.
All employees are strongly encouraged to continue to receive and maintain up-to-date Covid vaccinations unless they are unable to for medical or religious reasons.
Bronx Legal Services is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. People of color, women, people with disabilities, gay, lesbian, people over 40, and transgender people are all welcome and encouraged to apply.
Salary Range (Based on years’ experience): $100,000 - $160,00