General Counsel

The Bronx Defenders (BxD) – an innovative, progressive, holistic indigent defense office in the South Bronx – seeks an experienced Attorney with a commitment to social justice and experience serving individuals in racially and socioeconomically marginalized communities to serve as a The General Counsel. BxD is a public defender non-profit that is radically transforming how low-income people in the Bronx are represented in the justice system, and, in doing so, is transforming the system itself. BxD seeks thoughtful, creative, energetic individuals with a strong commitment to social justice to join our dynamic and diverse staff. Our staff of over 350 includes interdisciplinary teams made up of criminal, civil, immigration, and family defense attorneys, as well as social workers, benefits specialists, legal advocates, parent advocates, investigators, and team administrators, all of whom collaborate to provide holistic legal and social service advocacy. Through this integrated team-based structure, we have pioneered a groundbreaking, nationally-recognized model of representation called holistic defense that achieves better outcomes for our clients. Each year, we defend 27,000 low-income Bronx residents in criminal, civil, child welfare, and immigration cases, and reach thousands more through our community intake, youth mentoring, and outreach programs. Through impact litigation, policy advocacy, and community organizing, we push for systemic reform at the local, state, and national level. We take what we learn from the clients and communities that we serve, and launch innovative initiatives designed to bring about real and lasting change.

SCOPE AND RESPONSIBILITIES: The General Counsel is appointed by the Board of Directors to provide professional advice on critical strategic, legal, and public policy issues facing The Bronx Defenders. As a member of the senior leadership of The Bronx Defenders, the General Counsel supports the Executive Director and Board in maintaining an atmosphere of ethics and integrity in all of the organization’s endeavours. The General Counsel is responsible for advising the Chief Operating Officer and Executive Director on contractual matters and ensuring compliance with federal, state, and city law. Areas of Responsibility: Primary responsibilities of the GC include: Support the BXD’s mission and function through the delivery of legal support and guidanceEnsure compliance with legal requirements and internal policies by reviewing and providing advice on proposed projects, agreements, communications, and ongoing programmatic workAdvise management on legal risks facing the organizationReview, negotiate and draft various corporate contracts and other legal documents.Draft and review internal policies and other governance documentsEnsure compliance with state, federal, and local laws and internal policies, including tax laws and regulations applicable to 501(c)(3) organizationsAdvise and assist on intellectual property matters, finance matters, employment matters, and benefits issuesBuild a strong working relationship with the Board of Directors; facilitate Board and Board committee communications; prepare Board meeting materials and minutes, and oversee the maintenance of corporate recordsServe as in-house ethics counsel to advocacy staff and oversee internal ethics protocol and compliance, including training and conflict protocolsProvide direction and advice to the Executive Director, Chief Operating Officer, and Board of Directors to support and enhance the governance processes of the BXDMaintain familiarity with and expertise in non-profit policies, procedures, and laws and integrate best practices into the organization’s operationsParticipate actively and positively in BXD’s Executive Management TeamOversee organizational response to claims, lawsuits, and subpoenasSupervise outside counsel, retained and pro bonoSupervise other members of the legal department

At least seven years of a prior law firm, in-house counsel, or comparable experience; experience in the legal services community a plusAble to work both independently and in close cooperation with the Executive Director and Chief Operating OfficerCompetent problem-solver, able to make tough decisions in a way that reflects well on the BXDWorking knowledge of contract negotiation, legal ethics, non-profit regulations, governance, and employment lawDetail-oriented with exceptional legal research and analytic skillsExcellent judgment and discretion, especially regarding confidential and sensitive mattersDemonstrated track record of providing a positive, creative, problem-solving approach to address challenging legal issuesAbility to interface with tact and diplomacy at all levels of the organization and with outside individuals and firmsStrong organizational skills with the ability to establish plans; manage a large workload with multiple assignments and conflict priorities, and meet deadlinesCan maintain composure and critical thinking skills under pressureAppreciates the mission of The Bronx Defenders and is willing and able to help carry out that mission in word and deedEducation and BAR Admissions: Juris Doctor from an accredited law school; admitted to and member in good standing of the New York State Bar Salary is commensurate with experience. For candidates with 7-10 years of directly relevant experience, the salary range for this position would be approximately $175,000 to $225,000. Full-time employees are also eligible for a comprehensive benefits package including but not limited to medical, dental and vision coverage; a 403(b) plan with employer contribution; a generous vacation, sick leave, and parental leave policy; and a professional development fund. More specific information about salary and benefits will be provided when and if an offer is extended. To apply, please click APPLY FOR THIS JOB ONLINE and upload both a cover letter and resume as a single document when prompted. Applications missing any components or not submitted in the requested manner will not be considered.Applications will be considered on a rolling basis and decisions will be made as soon as appropriate candidates are identified. Please contact Justine Olderman, Executive Director, via email at [email protected] with any questions regarding the position. The Bronx Defenders is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, committed to inclusive hiring, and dedicated to diversity in our work and staff. We strongly encourage candidates of all identities, orientations, experiences, and communities to apply.