Forensic Social Worker, Elder Law Unit
The Legal Aid Society, New York, NY, United States
Overview: The Legal Aid Society’s Civil Practice has an opening for a Forensic Social Worker within the Elder Law Unit. The unit provides legal representation and support to seniors in housing court at risk of eviction. Clients often present with substantial needs linked to the core eviction defense case, including cognitive limitations, physical or mental health disabilities, elder abuse, need for additional support to continue living in the community, and other issues. The Forensic Social Worker works as part of a multidisciplinary team with staff attorneys and paralegals to address these complex needs and help clients maintain autonomy and live safely in the community.
Responsibilities
Act as a member of the Elder Law Unit team supporting senior New Yorkers in housing court
Collaborate with attorneys and paralegals to prepare clients for the housing court process and support clients throughout the legal proceedings
Conduct assessments to identify mental health issues that may impact participation in the housing cases and put the client at risk for eviction
Perform crisis intervention and short‑term counseling
Help clients navigate social welfare systems and develop casework plans in conjunction with the attorneys, including providing housing‑related benefits assistance
Provide referrals for mental health and substance abuse treatment
Advocate with city, state and federal agencies (e.g., HRA, APS, SSA) and community-based advocacy groups
Conduct home and field/site visits
Maintain case files and electronic records
Professional Development & Other Duties
Participate in continuous professional development
Continuously learn about forms of bias in the workplace and demonstrate affirmative behaviors that support an inclusive work environment
Other duties as assigned
Qualifications
Required qualifications:
MSW degree and New York State (NYS) license in social work (LMSW or LCSW) preferred OR the ability to obtain LMSW licensure within 6 months of hire
Strong assessment and client engagement skills
Knowledge of government benefits and related advocacy desired
Ability to work within a team model and an interest in research
Strong organizational and advocacy skills
Excellent writing, oral advocacy, case management, and computer skills
Ability to work in a fast‑paced environment with court‑dictated timelines
Preferred qualifications:
MSW degree and NYS certification in social work (LMSW, LCSW) preferred
Experience in and/or commitment to advocacy on behalf of low‑income people
Experience working with housing court or other legal venues
Proficiency in languages other than English, especially Spanish, is desirable but not required
Salary & Benefits
Salary Range: $81,195 - $120,690. The Legal Aid Society offers a benefits package that includes health insurance, paid vacation, disability, life insurance, and other employee benefits.
Equal Employment Opportunity
The Legal Aid Society is an equal opportunity employer.
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Responsibilities
Act as a member of the Elder Law Unit team supporting senior New Yorkers in housing court
Collaborate with attorneys and paralegals to prepare clients for the housing court process and support clients throughout the legal proceedings
Conduct assessments to identify mental health issues that may impact participation in the housing cases and put the client at risk for eviction
Perform crisis intervention and short‑term counseling
Help clients navigate social welfare systems and develop casework plans in conjunction with the attorneys, including providing housing‑related benefits assistance
Provide referrals for mental health and substance abuse treatment
Advocate with city, state and federal agencies (e.g., HRA, APS, SSA) and community-based advocacy groups
Conduct home and field/site visits
Maintain case files and electronic records
Professional Development & Other Duties
Participate in continuous professional development
Continuously learn about forms of bias in the workplace and demonstrate affirmative behaviors that support an inclusive work environment
Other duties as assigned
Qualifications
Required qualifications:
MSW degree and New York State (NYS) license in social work (LMSW or LCSW) preferred OR the ability to obtain LMSW licensure within 6 months of hire
Strong assessment and client engagement skills
Knowledge of government benefits and related advocacy desired
Ability to work within a team model and an interest in research
Strong organizational and advocacy skills
Excellent writing, oral advocacy, case management, and computer skills
Ability to work in a fast‑paced environment with court‑dictated timelines
Preferred qualifications:
MSW degree and NYS certification in social work (LMSW, LCSW) preferred
Experience in and/or commitment to advocacy on behalf of low‑income people
Experience working with housing court or other legal venues
Proficiency in languages other than English, especially Spanish, is desirable but not required
Salary & Benefits
Salary Range: $81,195 - $120,690. The Legal Aid Society offers a benefits package that includes health insurance, paid vacation, disability, life insurance, and other employee benefits.
Equal Employment Opportunity
The Legal Aid Society is an equal opportunity employer.
#J-18808-Ljbffr