The Council on American Islamic Relations, New York (CAIR-NY) is a dynamic non-profit that aims to serve the American-Muslim community throughout the state of New York. CAIR-NY engages in a number of advocacy tools, including counseling potential clients, public education, media engagement, and strategic litigation to protect and advance civil liberties for all New Yorkers.  

We are seeking a passionate lawyer to join the legal department based in New York City for a 4-month term, beginning on October 10 to cover for an attorney on parental leave. This is a full time, temporary position.  

Description: 

• Position: Temporary Staff Attorney (Full-time) 
• Location: New York City, New York (hybrid in-person/remote) 
• Salary: $20,000-25,000 commensurate on experience (for the 4-month period) 
• Application deadline: October 1st, 2026. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis with priority given to applications submitted by the deadline.  

Duties and Responsibilities:

• In collaboration with the rest of the CAIR-NY Legal Team and outside co-counsel, participate in all aspects of litigation including, but not limited to, client interviews, factual investigation, legal research, discovery, preparation of legal documents, negotiations, etc.
• Conduct community education and outreach including Know-Your-Rights presentations online and in-person.
• Provide consultations to community members requesting legal assistance, limited representation for student disciplinary matters and urgent law enforcement encounters, and draft pre-litigation advocacy letters.
• Assist other staff in the production of internal and external reports.
• Assist in general duties such as answering phones, weekly outreach, fundraising, and other office tasks as needed.

Required Qualifications:

• Minimum 2 years of post-law school experience
• Excellent writing, research, analytical, and communication skills. 
• Demonstrated ability to think strategically and advocate effectively 
• Demonstrated commitment to the goals and priorities of CAIR-NY 
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a public-interest setting  
• Admission to the New York Bar, SDNY and EDNY
• Fluency in Arabic, Urdu, or Bangla is a plus but not required. 

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with urgent law enforcement encounters and student disciplinary matters
• Arabic, Farsi, or Urdu proficiency 
• Experience working with non-profit organizations 

To Apply 

Please submit (1) a cover letter discussing your interest in the position (1 page), (2) your resume, (3) a brief example of your writing (max 10 pages), and (4) the names and contact information of three references via email to [email protected]. The subject line of your email should include your first and last name and “Temporary Staff Attorney.” Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.