Special Counsel

New York State Office of the Attorney General
New York, NY
Posted 

Job Description

Social Justice Division

Special Counsel – New York City

Reference No. SJD_NYC_SC_3770

Application Deadline is March 28, 2025

The Office of the New York State Attorney General (OAG) is seeking an experienced litigator and advocate to serve as

a Special Counsel focused on advancing LGBTQIA rights. This position will report to the Civil Rights Bureau Chief and

will be located at the New York City office.

The Special Counsel will collaborate with teams across OAG to analyze federal policy and lead responses to federal

actions that threaten LGBTQIA people and communities; combat discrimination against LGBTQIA New Yorkers in

education, healthcare, public accommodations, housing, employment, and other contexts using federal, state, and

local laws; enhance relationships with organizations serving LGBTQIA communities; and engage in and supervise

affirmative and defensive litigation in federal and state courts. In addition, the Special Counsel will represent OAG in

liaising with other states, local governments, and nonprofit agencies; collaborate with external partners and OAG’s

policy team to review, monitor, and comment on legislative proposals and policy initiatives; present at conferences

and other outreach events; and draft policy papers and other publications when needed.

Qualifications:
  • At least seven (7) years of post-graduate civil litigation experience, including experience in federal court;
  • Deep understanding of and passion for LGBTQIA rights and experience with advocacy and litigation in that
area;

  • Strong relationships with groups advocating for LGBTQIA rights;
  • Experience working in coalition and coordinating litigation teams;
  • Excellent oral advocacy, legal analysis, legal writing, and editing skills;
  • Strong organizational, interpersonal communication, problem solving, and teamwork skills;
  • Proficiency using technology to complete legal work, including knowledge of and experience with various
computer software programs and case management and electronic discovery platforms; and

  • Ability to work well independently and with a large group of attorneys.
Applicants must reside in (or intend to soon become a resident of) New York state and be admitted to practice law in

New York state. In addition, the Public Officers Law requires that OAG attorneys be citizens of the United States. A

two (2) year commitment upon being hired is a condition of employment.

The salary range for this position is $81,159 - $173,265 + $3,400 in location pay. To learn more about attorney

compensation, please visit the following page:
ag.ny.gov/sites/default/files/assistant_attorney_general_compensation.pdf

As an employee of OAG, you will join a team of dedicated individuals who work to serve the people of our state

through a wide variety of occupations. We offer a comprehensive New York state benefits package, including

paid leave, health, dental, vision, and retirement benefits, and family-friendly policies. Additionally, OAG offers a

robust Workplace Flexibilities Program with multiple options for employees, including telecommuting (up to two

days per week) and alternative work schedules.

Candidates from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

The OAG is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to workplace diversity.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted online.

To ensure consideration, applications must be received by close of business on March 28, 2025.

Applicants must be prepared to submit a complete application consisting of the following:

  • Cover Letter
− You may address your letter to the Legal Recruitment Unit.

− Indicate why you are interested in this position and what makes you a strong candidate. You may

wish to include information about what life experiences you will bring to the position that will

enhance OAG’s ability to better serve the diverse population of this state.

  • Resume
  • Legal Writing Sample
  • List of three (3) references
− Submit only professional references; supervisory references are preferred.

− For each reference, indicate the nature and duration of your relationship.

− Include contact information and email addresses for each reference.

− Please note that your references will not be contacted until after you interview for the position.

If you have questions regarding a position with OAG, the application process, or need assistance with submitting your application, please

contact Legal Recruitment via email at recruitment@ag.ny.gov or phone at 212-416-8080.