Civil Practice Law Graduate, Housing Justice – Tenant Defense – Fall 2027

The Legal Aid Society’s Civil Practice has Law Graduate positions available in the Housing Justice Unit—Tenant Defense for Fall 2027. While awaiting New York Bar admission, Law Graduates will work closely with a Housing Supervisor and within the parameters of the LAS Practice Order. Tenant Defense handles a broad range of individual and group tenant representation at the trial and appellate levels, including holdovers, nonpayment proceedings, administrative hearings, and affirmative litigation in state and federal courts. The Unit also works with tenant associations, tenant organizers, community-based organizations, partner legal services agencies, and pro bono attorneys. 

 

The deadline to apply is October 14, 2026. Applications are reviewed, and offers are made on a rolling basis, so we encourage you to apply early. Interviews will be scheduled throughout the fall, and if you are selected for an interview, you will receive an email notification during this season.  

 

The application process will include: 

 

• On Campus Interview (OCI), if available, serving as a screening 

• Two rounds of interviews 

• Reference checks 

 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES 

• Client representation and advocacy with city, state, and federal agencies and in court proceedings, administrative hearings, and affirmative litigation 

• Conduct regular courthouse-based and off-site intake, possibly including during evening hours 

• Provide training, community outreach, and education to individuals, local community-based organizations, and housing advocates 

• Advocate for policy changes before legislative, administrative, and judicial bodies to advance the interests of clients 

• Represent and promote the work of the office, the Civil Practice, and The Legal Aid Society in the community 

• Work collaboratively with other organizations, pro bono lawyers, and partners 

• Maintain a full caseload of clients 

• Some weekend and night advocacy may be necessary 

• Other duties as assigned 

 

QUALIFICATIONS 

Required qualifications: 

• Current 3L students who will graduate in Spring 2027 and will sit for the New York Bar Exam in July 2027 or its equivalent 

• Those participating in post-graduate Fellowships or Clerkships who took the first available bar exam are eligible to apply 

• Winter 2027 graduates sitting for the first available New York Bar Exam or its equivalent are also eligible 

• Demonstrated commitment to serving historically excluded communities and identifying how race, gender, class and intersectionality impact client outcomes 

• Relevant clinical program, internship, or work experience preferred 

• Excellent written, analytical, organizational, and oral advocacy skills are required 

• Applicants must be creative, flexible, and highly motivated 

• Applicants must have the ability to work independently as well as collaboratively and manage a high volume of cases<