About the job
The Office of Assisted Outpatient Treatment (AOT) plays a vital role in overseeing the Assisted Outpatient Treatment Program in New York City. Established under Kendra’s law, this initiative allows for outpatient civil commitment of individuals facing serious mental health challenges, who struggle with rehabilitation and pose risks to themselves or others. The program collaborates with the Office of General Counsel (OGC) to support these individuals in living safely within the community, minimize repeated hospitalizations, and ensure access to essential outpatient services. The OGC team comprises skilled attorneys specializing in legal affairs, contracts, privacy, and employment law, among other areas. Furthermore, OGC supports the Institutional Review Board and attorneys engaged in the AOT program.
Position Summary:
The Assistant General Counsel will be a key member of the OGC legal team. Reporting to the Director of the AOT Legal team, this role will involve providing legal support for the AOT program. Responsibilities include:
- Drafting court petitions for psychiatric treatment and representing the Health Department in related hearings and jury trials.
- Preparing motions and appeals as required.
- Litigating complex cases at OATH when necessary.
- Conducting legal research and producing analyses on time-sensitive issues.
- Offering legal counsel to the AOT program and assisting in workflow management.
- Collaborating with various governmental agencies, including the New York State Office of Mental Health and the Office of Court Administration.
- Working alongside hospitals in New York City to facilitate patient referrals to the AOT Program and assisting with AOT petitions.
- Traveling to courts, health department offices, and hospitals/clinics within New York City.
- Maintaining confidentiality of sensitive information and managing information distribution accurately.
- Monitoring workflow compliance with deadlines and preparing reports.
- Building positive relationships with colleagues and programs.
- Exhibiting strong research and writing abilities.
- Addressing additional tasks and projects as assigned.
