Job Description

Executive Director

Assigned Counsel Program of Erie County

About the Organization

The Assigned Counsel Program of Erie County (ACP) helps ensure that individuals who cannot afford legal representation receive high-quality counsel in criminal and family matters. The Program coordinates access to experienced private panel attorneys and provides training, mentoring, case conferences, legal research, investigative and forensic support, and social work assistance.

Founded in 1962, ACP has deep roots in Buffalo and Western New York’s indigent defense community. The Program protects constitutional rights, supports families, and helps clients navigate the court system while facing challenges such as poverty, mental health needs, family disruption, and the power of the State.

The Opportunity

The Executive Director will lead ACP in partnership with the Board of Directors, building upon operational reforms implemented under interim leadership. This individual will sustain improvements in billing and assignment practices, strengthen staff and panel attorney relationships, and serve as a key liaison with the courts, Erie County, and the New York State Office of Indigent Legal Services (ILS).

This is an exceptional opportunity for an experienced leader to improve access to counsel, support outstanding legal representation, and guide the next chapter of this vital organization.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic & Organizational Leadership

• Lead the Program in partnership with the Board, translating its mission into measurable priorities and organizational goals.
• Build upon ongoing reforms and sustain effective operational practices.
• Keep the Board informed on organizational performance, financial health, and emerging risks.
• Guide organizational change through clear communication and collaborative leadership.

People & Culture

• Maintain a visible presence in Buffalo and build trust through transparent and consistent leadership.
• Support deputy attorneys, the Chief Financial Officer, and management staff.
• Recruit, retain, develop, and evaluate employees.
• Foster a respectful and collaborative workplace culture that values diverse expertise and perspectives.

Program Quality & Operations

• Oversee criminal defense and Family Court services alongside experienced deputy attorneys.
• Strengthen panel attorney recruitment, training, mentoring, and support resources.
• Ensure fair case assignments and timely voucher review processes.
• Utilize data to monitor workloads, payment turnaround times, and service quality.
• Implement improvements and monitor outcomes.

External Leadership & Stewardship

• Partner with the Chief Financial Officer on budgets, contracts, grants, and financial oversight.
• Maintain and strengthen relationships with Erie County, ILS, the judiciary, panel attorneys, and community stakeholders.
• Represent ACP in local and statewide discussions regarding indigent defense services.
• Collaborate with regional partners to enhance services and maximize resources.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school.
• Admission to practice law and good standing in at least one U.S. jurisdiction.
• Significant experience in criminal defense or Family Court practice.
• Proven leadership and management experience.
• Demonstrated financial and operational management capabilities.
• Experience working with governing boards and diverse stakeholders.

Preferred Qualifications

• Admission to practice law in New York State.
• Experience in both criminal defense and Family Court matters.
• Public defense, government, nonprofit, or law firm leadership experience.
• Familiarity with New York State Office of Indigent Legal Services (ILS) programs.
• Strong ties to or commitment to Western New York.

Leadership Competencies

The ideal candidate will demonstrate:

• Strategic leadership
• Sound judgment and decision-making
• Relationship building
• Financial stewardship
• Organizational management
• Change management
• Cultural humility and inclusivity
• Commitment to public service and access to justice

Work Environment

The Executive Director will lead a dedicated staff and collaborate with independent panel attorneys who represent ACP clients. Deputy attorneys provide legal guidance, training, and quality assurance, while investigators and social workers support casework.

This position requires active, on-site leadership, effective change management, collaboration across legal and administrative teams, and respect for attorney independence and staff expertise.

Early priorities include listening to stakeholders, sustaining operational reforms, improving payment processes, and strengthening access to counsel, particularly in Family Court.

Commitment to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

ACP serves clients whose lives are often impacted by poverty, disability, mental health challenges, racial inequities, family disruption, and unequal access to resources. The next Executive Director must demonstrate a commitment to equitable treatment, inclusive leadership, cultural humility, and high-quality representation for every eligible client.

Compensation & Benefits

Salary: $218,000 annually (anticipated), subject to final compensation approval.

Benefits:

• Health insurance coverage
• 10% employer retirement contribution
• Additional benefits as outlined in applicable plan documents

We encourage candidates of all backgrounds to apply, even if they do not meet every listed qualification. Applicants selected for an initial screening interview can expect to be contacted by December 2026.

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