Prisoners’ Legal Services of New York (PLS) is seeking applicants for the position of Legal Secretary for the PLS Newburgh Office.

About PLS

PLS is a non-profit legal services organization providing civil legal services to indigent individuals in New York State correctional facilities in cases where no other counsel is available. Founded in 1976 in response to the Attica uprising, PLS has regional offices in Albany, Buffalo, Ithaca and Newburgh.  PLS engages in civil rights advocacy and litigation on behalf of incarcerated New Yorkers primarily in cases involving claims of deliberate indifference to serious mental health and medical needs, unconstitutional conditions of confinement, prolonged placement in solitary confinement, treatment of juveniles and veterans, child visitation and support,  excessive use of force, and sentence computation issues. The PLS Immigration Unit also represents immigrants facing deportation and assists in other matters for detained immigrants.  Additionally, the Newburgh office assists individuals facing legal barriers upon re-entry to the community through our Pre-Release and Re-Entry Project.  

Job Description

PLS is seeking a legal secretary for the Newburgh office. Job duties include, but are not limited to, answering the phone, greeting visitors, data entry, filing, making travel and meeting arrangements and preparing reports.  The ideal applicants will have the ability to perform secretarial, clerical and administrative functions necessary to the effective representation of clients and the administration of the Newburgh office, such as preparation of legal documents, non-legal work product, mail sorting, entering reminders and entries in case management system, and filing.  Maintain courteous and professional contact with clients, opposing counsel, courts, visitors, callers and agencies.

Qualifications

• Strong typing, computer and case management skills
• Strong organizational, attention to detail and time management skills
• Proficiency in Word, Excel, Publisher and case management software
• Ability to provide administrative support to one or more lawyers
• Ability to communicate effectively with witnesses, clients, colleagues and partners
• Ability to greet visitors and perform initial screening of clients
• Ability to work well with and enjoy collaborating with others
• Minimum high school degree required
• Associate or bachelor’s degree preferred
• Experience working in New York law offices, legal services organizations, or other work environments that directly handle and protect private client, patient, or customer information
• A second language commonly spoken in the community is a plus
• A commitment to, and passion for, serving vulnerable New Yorkers of diverse backgrounds

Salary and Benefits

PLS offers a salary that is competitive with other public interest law firms in upstate New York, and sets salaries depending on experience. The current salary range for this position is between $36,000 – $46,000.  PLS offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, short-and long-term disability, life insurance, and a 401(k) retirement plan.

PLS’ Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

All qualified applicants will be afforded equal employment opportunities without discrimination because of sex, race, color, age, national origin, religion, disability, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, citizenship, pregnancy or veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.

How to Apply

Please send a cover letter, resume, writing sample and at least three (3) references by email to: ypereyaslavskiy@plsny.org. Due to the volume of applications expected, only people who are contacted for interviews will receive a response. The positions will remain open until filled.