What are the responsibilities and job description for the Court Attorney position at New York State Unified Court System?
Job Title: Court Attorney (Series)
About the Courts:
The New York State Unified Court System (NYS UCS) is one of the largest and most diverse court systems in the nation, responsible for delivering fair, efficient, and accessible justice to the people of New York. With courts operating in every county statewide, NYS UCS supports a wide range of legal proceedings and provides essential services that uphold the rule of law. The court system is committed to integrity, professionalism, and public service across all operations.
Position Overview:
The New York State Unified Court System is seeking a Court Attorney for the Third Judicial District Office.
The Third Judicial District is recruiting for one position in the Court Attorney Series. The position will be filled in any of these titles and will be dependent on the qualifications and experience of the applicant selected.
Key Responsibilities:
This position is assigned to the Administrative Office of the 3rd Judicial District and will primarily be responsible for assisting judges experiencing a vacancy or temporary absence in their chambers by preparing draft decisions and orders.
Duties include but are not limited to:
- Assigning legal research and evaluating completed work
- Assisting in the formulation and implementation of administrative and substantive policy
- Making suggestions to judges for improving court operations
- Researching and analyzing complex legal questions and issues
- Writing confidential legal memoranda and recommending decisions
- Responding to complaints/inquiries
- Collaborating with department heads and agency officials both inside and outside UCS
- Meeting with Judges on legal issues
- Drafting confidential opinions, decisions, orders, jury charges, and correspondence
- Arranging and conducting conferences with litigants and other parties to action
Qualifications:
Principal Court Attorney:
Admission to the New York State Bar; and Three (3) years of service in the Associate Court Attorney title; or Eight (8) years of relevant legal experience gained after admission to the New York State Bar.
Associate Court Attorney:
Admission to the New York State Bar; and Five (5) years of relevant legal experience, including up to 18 months of pre-admission experience.
Senior Court Attorney:
Admission to the New York State Bar; and Two (2) years of relevant legal experience, including up to 18 months of pre-admission experience.
Employment Type:
- Full-time
Salary & Compensation:
- Base Salary:
Principal Court Attorney: $130,061
Associate Court Attorney: $123,228
Senior Court Attorney: $99,490
Location:
Castleton-On-Hudson, NY
How to Apply:
All interested persons meeting the minimum qualifications are encouraged to submit a UCS-5 Application for Employment form (obtainable from any administrative office in a court building or on the web at www.nycourts.gov/careers/UCS5.pdf), resume, and cover letter by email to 3JDEmployment@nycourts.gov or by mail to:
THIRD JUDICIAL DISTRICT OFFICE
2500 POND VIEW, SUITE 210
CASTLETON-ON-HUDSON, NY 12033
What the Courts Offer:
- Competitive Compensation
- 13 Paid Holidays
- NYS Pension Plan
- 20 Paid Vacation Days within the first year
- Paid Parental Leave
- Comprehensive Health Insurance
Full Job Description can be reviewed here: 3630_court_attorney_series_0.pdf
Applications must be postmarked or received by: November 6, 2026
Equal Employment Opportunity Policy
It is the policy of the UCS to ensure equal employment opportunity for all employees and applicants for employment, without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, creed, sex (including freedom from sexual harassment), sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, or, in certain circumstances, prior criminal record.
Salary : $99,490 - $130,061