Director of Litigation and Special Projects
Date Posted: October 7, 2026
Job Description
Youth Represent is seeking a dynamic and mission-driven attorney to join our team as Director of Litigation and Special Projects. This new role will focus on expanding access to justice and serving young people impacted by the criminal legal system in New York. This leader will help shape our approach through a combination of targeted strategic litigation and the creation of innovative pilot projects and partnerships to develop advocacy in emerging areas of practice. They will also play a key role in developing staff growth and mentoring interns and fellows who serve with us.
Youth Represent is dedicated to using direct legal services, policy advocacy, community education and strategic litigation to advance change at the individual and collective level, centering young people in the work we do together. Through holistic legal representation, integrated mental health services, and advocacy and youth development, we help young people navigate some of the most complex and inequitable systems in New York.
This new role is an opportunity to help shape the next chapter of Youth Represent’s impact and innovation through strategic partnership.
Overview of the Position
The Director of Litigation and Special Projects will bring a deep understanding of the legal issues facing young people who have contact with the criminal legal system.
Reporting to the Executive Director, the Director of Litigation and Special Projects will lead Youth Represent’s dynamic strategic legal practice, including amicus work, new projects with our talented legal staff and volunteers (pro bono counsel or a law school clinic), and impact litigation to advance legal strategies responsive to emerging issues. As a member of YR’s Management Team, they will attend regular meetings, contribute to organizational strategy, foster cross-functional collaboration, and help shape YR’s continued growth and success.
This role calls for an entrepreneurial leader who is eager to shape the future of the Litigation and Special Projects portfolio. They will cultivate strong internal and external partnerships, identify opportunities to expand our impact, and create collaborative approaches to emerging areas of our work.
