Description

Attorney – Mental Hygiene Legal Service

Location: Rockland County, NY
Agency: Appellate Division, Second Judicial Department
Classification: Non-Competitive / Confidential

The Appellate Division, Second Judicial Department, is currently accepting applications for an attorney position in the Court’s Mental Hygiene Legal Service (MHLS). The position will be filled under the following title:

Attorney (JG: 23)
Base Salary: $84,659 + $4,920 location pay

• Admission to the New York State Bar
• Valid driver’s license and access to a properly registered automobile for fieldwork

Under direct supervision, Attorneys serve in a confidential capacity and perform legal research, prepare cases for administrative proceedings and court litigation, and carry out other related duties. Attorneys provide legal advocacy within the Mental Hygiene Legal Service, attorney disciplinary committees, 18B panel administration, and similar units.

The Mental Hygiene Legal Service (MHLS) provides legal representation and advocacy to individuals with mental and developmental disabilities, as well as individuals alleged to require mental health services. Areas of legal representation include civil and criminal commitment, treatment over objection, guardianship, sex offender civil management, and assisted outpatient treatment.

Attorneys regularly appear in New York courts, often handling complex cases involving involuntary hospitalization and psychiatric treatment. This position includes frequent fieldwork, including visits to psychiatric hospitals, facilities, or private residences. Attorneys also advocate informally for clients and represent them in administrative hearings. Litigation experience is preferred but not required.

This job description summarizes the general nature and responsibilities of the role and may not include all duties. While this vacancy is located in Rockland County, reassignment within the promotion unit may occur as needed by the Unified Court System. Applications received from this announcement may be considered for any similar vacancies within the next six (6) months.

Current vacancies available: 1

Interested and qualified individuals should submit the following:

• UCS-5 Application for Employment (download form)
• Resume
• Cover letter

Submit applications by email to: [email protected]
Or by mail to:

Eben Hill, Director
Mental Hygiene Legal Service
600 Old Country Road, Suite 224
Garden City, NY 11530

Applicants are also encouraged to complete the Equal Employment Opportunity Data Collection Form.

July 24, 2025

Applications must be postmarked or received by August 21, 2025

The New York State Unified Court System is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender (including pregnancy and gender identity or expression), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, age, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factors.