Staff Attorney - Consumer Law

Staff Attorney – Consumer Law

Location: Buffalo, NY (Hybrid) | Full-Time-35 Hours

Salary Range: $71,500 to $88,440 Annually

Make an Impact Where It Matters Most

The Western New York Law Center (WNYLC) is seeking a passionate Staff Attorney to join our Consumer Law team. This role offers a unique opportunity to combine direct advocacy, impact litigation, and systemic reform work to advance economic justice across Western New York.

You will represent individuals facing consumer debt challenges while helping to drive broader strategies that challenge predatory practices and expand access to justice.

Why Join WNYLC

Mission-Driven Work: Be part of a team that goes beyond individual cases engaging in policy advocacy, community lawyering, and impact litigation to create lasting change.

Collaborative & Supportive Environment: Work within a team-based structure with strong supervision and mentorship, where your professional growth is supported and your ideas are valued.

Community-Focused Advocacy: Engage directly with the community through CLARO clinics and outreach initiatives, helping expand access to critical legal services.

Sustainable Work Culture: We are committed to building long-term, sustainable public interest careers, with flexibility and support to help prevent burnout.

The Impact You’ll Make

As a Staff Attorney, you will:

· Advocate & Litigate: Represent clients in consumer debt matters through advice, negotiation, and litigation

· Advance Systemic Change: Participate in legislative and administrative advocacy on consumer justice issues

· Engage the Community: Staff clinics and conduct outreach to expand access to legal resources

· Collaborate Across Teams: Work with colleagues across practice areas to support holistic client outcomes

· Build Partnerships: Strengthen relationships with community organizations and stakeholders

What You Bring

Required:

· Admission to the New York State Bar (or pending admission)

· Experience or strong interest in consumer law, economic justice, or civil legal services

· Commitment to serving low-income and underserved communities

Preferred:

· Strong legal writing, research, and advocacy skills

· Ability to manage a fast-paced caseload with attention to detail

· Cultural competency and strong interpersonal skills

· Interest in community outreach and public-facing work

About WNYLC

Founded in 1996, WNYLC has grown into a leader in both holistic civil legal services and policy advocacy for underserved Western New Yorkers. Our work spans housing, consumer finance, student rights, and small business support.

Our Consumer Law program administers Buffalo’s CLARO clinic, assisting individuals facing lawsuits related to auto loans, credit agreements, student loans, and other consumer debt issues.

Salary

WNYLC uses a structured salary scale based on years of legal experience:

· Step 1: $71,500

· Step 2: $73,500

· Step 3: $75,500

· Step 4: $77,500

· Step 5: $81,129

Salary placement is based on bar admission date and relevant experience.

Comprehensive Benefits Package

Health & Wellness

· 100% Employer-Paid Health Insurance (Independent Health Flex Fit Platinum) – coverage begins on your first day

Employer-Funded HRA (Health Reimbursement Account of $3,000 annually)

· Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) for healthcare, childcare, and commuting

Paid Time Off (Generous & Progressive)

· Vacation:

15 days (in 1 year) 20 days (1–4 years) 25 days (5 years)

· 4 personal days annually (prorated based on hire date)

· 12 sick days per year

· Comprehensive holiday schedule, including:

Full week off between Christmas and New Year’s

Retirement & Financial Benefits

· 403(b) retirement plan

· Employer contribution of 4% of salary, plus Employer match up to an additional 3%

· Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) eligible employer

· Paid life insurance

· Flexible spending and reimbursement options

How to Apply

Please submit:

· Resume

· Cover letter

· Writing sample (max 10 pages)

· Three references

· Transcript (if admitted less than two years) Send materials to: lhaas@wnylc.net. No phone calls, please

Equal Opportunity Employer

WNYLC is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Pay: $71,500.00 - $81,129.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible schedule
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Loan forgiveness
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Buffalo, NY 14202

Salary : $71,500 - $81,129