About exalt

exalt elevates expectations of personal success for youth ages 15–19 who have been involved in the criminal justice system. We support young people at a critical crossroads, helping them believe in their worth and build lasting behavioral change. Through structured skill-building classes, individualized support navigating education and justice systems, paid internships, and an alumni network, exalt equips youth with the tools and experience needed to avoid further justice system involvement. We empower youth to envision hopeful futures—and provide the roadmap to achieve them.

Job Summary

exalt is seeking a Court Liaison as part of its strategic expansion into Syracuse, NY. This role is critical to delivering services during a pivotal moment in youth justice reform in the region. The Court Liaison will work within the New York State Unified Court System to assess, advocate for, and support exalt participants with active legal cases. This individual will report participant progress to the courts and serve as an ambassador for exalt to key stakeholders, including judges, assistant district attorneys, public defenders, clerks, court officers, court administrators, probation staff, and alternative-to-incarceration agencies. The ideal candidate is strategic, diplomatic, and highly organized, with the ability to navigate complex systems of authority while advocating for young people. This individual must demonstrate strong commitment to exalt’s mission and to advancing youth outcomes in criminal justice avoidance, employability, and educational progression.

Responsibilities

Identify and refer eligible youth to exalt’s program through collaboration with court personnel.
Liaise with defense counsel regarding alternative-to-incarceration opportunities.
Advocate in court for participant placement and continued participation in exalt.
Prepare and present written and verbal reports on participant attendance, engagement, and progress.
Collaborate with exalt program staff to support participants’ Individualized Personal Plans (IPPs).
Maintain accurate records of court proceedings and participant case information in exalt’s database.
Educate court stakeholders about exalt’s services and impact.
Build and maintain professional relationships with judges, prosecutors, defense attorneys, and court staff.
Perform additional duties as assigned.

Core Competencies

Adaptability: Respond effectively to new information, shifting priorities, and unexpected challenges.

Applied Learning: Quickly learn and apply knowledge related to court systems, procedures, and exalt programming.

Communication: Demonstrate strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills with youth, colleagues, and court personnel.

Planning and Organization: Prioritize tasks, manage time effectively, and coordinate activities to meet deadlines and program goals.

Stress Tolerance: Maintain professionalism and sound judgment while supporting youth facing significant legal and personal challenges.

Compensation and Benefits

Salary: $60,000 annually.

exalt offers a competitive benefits package including health, dental, vision, and life insurance; 401(k) with employer match; commuter and parking benefits; paid time off; and additional employee supports.

Qualifications

Ability to obtain access to NYS E-Courts (digital portal).
Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree preferred.
Prior court advocacy experience preferred.
Knowledge of criminal justice system structure, procedures, and terminology required.
Experience with data entry and client databases required.
Experience with Alternative-to-Detention (ATD) or Alternative-to-Incarceration (ATI) programs preferred.
Strong written and verbal communication skills required.
Bilingual English/Spanish preferred.
Demonstrated commitment to youth development and justice-involved populations; relevant personal experience is valued.

Work Location and Requirements

This is a in-person position at exalt’s Syracuse office (224 Harrison Street, 7th Floor), with typical hours of 9:00 AM–5:00 PM. Employees must meet organizational health and safety requirements, including vaccination policies.