Assistant Deputy Counsel

Assistant Deputy Counsel
Franklin H. Williams Judicial Commission – New York State Unified Court System
Location: New York, NY
Title: Assistant Deputy Counsel (JG‑31)
Classification: Non‑Competitive / Confidential
Base Salary: $130,061 + $4,920 Location Pay

About the Franklin H. Williams Judicial Commission
The Franklin H. Williams Judicial Commission works to advance racial and ethnic fairness, expand access to justice, and promote equity throughout the New York State Unified Court System (UCS). Through research, policy development, education, and sustained collaboration with judges, court administrators, and community partners, the Commission drives systemic improvements that strengthen the administration of justice statewide. Its work is grounded in a deep commitment to diversity, inclusion, and the belief that equitable courts serve as the foundation of public trust.

Position Overview:
The Assistant Deputy Counsel is a key legal, policy, and operational leader within the Commission. Reporting to the Executive Director, this attorney plays a pivotal role in shaping statewide policies, conducting sophisticated legal and legislative analysis, and guiding initiatives that support fair and equitable court operations across New York. The Assistant Deputy Counsel also helps oversee day‑to‑day Commission functions, supervises staff and interns, and contributes to the strategic planning and execution of programs that engage court leadership and the broader judiciary.

This position is well‑suited for an attorney who excels in complex legal analysis, clear and persuasive writing, collaborative problem‑solving, and leadership in equity‑focused work.

Key Responsibilities:
• Conduct comprehensive legal and policy research on issues involving access to justice, racial and ethnic fairness, diversity, inclusion, and court‑system reform.
• Prepare clear, well‑organized written products—including reports, memoranda, correspondence, and publications—that inform statewide decision‑making.
• Analyze complex legal matters involving administrative rules, legislation, and litigation that affect court operations and policy direction.
• Translate research, data, and stakeholder feedback into actionable recommendations to improve equity and strengthen the judiciary’s responsiveness to diverse communities.
• Collaborate with judges, court leadership, administrators, and external partners to identify barriers to equity and develop strategies for systemic improvement.
• Assist in drafting legislative proposals and shaping policy positions through rigorous legal research and persuasive written analyses.
• Plan, coordinate, and implement Commission initiatives, including statewide conferences, town halls, educational programs, and professional development events.
• Supervise and support the work of counsels, analysts, interns, and other staff, contributing to team development and project management.
• Support pipeline and mentorship programs designed to introduce students to careers in the legal profession and the courts.
• Maintain strict confidentiality and exercise sound judgment in handling sensitive legal matters and Commission projects.

Minimum Qualifications:
• Admission to the New York State Bar; and
• Two years of service in the Associate Counsel title, or equivalent legal experience 

Preferred Attributes:
• Demonstrated commitment to equity, diversity, and expanding access to justice.
• Strong analytical, writing, and communication abilities.
• Experience conducting policy research or drafting legislative materials.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with judicial, governmental, and community stakeholders.
• Experience supervising or mentoring staff or interns is highly desirable.

What the Courts Offer: 

• Competitive Compensation
• 13 Paid Holidays
• NYS Pension Plan
• 20 Paid Vacation Dats within the first year
• Paid Parental Leave
• Comprehensive Health Insurance 
• Hybrid work model for Attorney Titles

How to Apply
Qualified candidates should submit:
• Cover letter
• Resume
• Completed UCS‑5 Employment Application (available at www.nycourts.gov/careers/UCS5.pdf)
• List of professional references (with contact information)

Please send application materials via email to FHWilliams@nycourts.gov or by mail to:

Karlene Dennis, Executive Director
Franklin H. Williams Judicial Commission
Office of Court Administration
25 Beaver Street, 8th Floor
New York, NY 10004

Full Job Description can be reviewed here: 1650_assistant_deputy_counsel.pdf

Equal Employment Opportunity
The New York State Unified Court System is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender (including pregnancy and gender identity or expression), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, age, membership in an employee organization, parental status, military service, or other non‑merit factors.