Gifty A. Boanoh
Bronx,NY
Summary
Advocacy driven legal professional with experience in public defense, policy research, and client-centered advocacy. Proven ability to manage projects to facilitate advocacy initiatives and, coordinate with internal and external partners to analyze the impacts of government decision making on communities facing poverty and complex socioeconomic statuses. Committed to justice centered federal, state, and local policy and systemic change.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
Work History
Paralegal
New York County Defender Services
New York, NY
09.2024 - Current
- Assist public defenders in providing legal representation to over 100+ indigent clients charged with misdemeanor and felony offenses in Manhattan Criminal Court.
- Conduct case research and review discovery materials, including police reports, body-worn camera footage, and witness statements, to identify inconsistencies and potential constitutional violations.
- Draft legal documents such as discovery demands, and mitigation letters, contributing to case strategy and client advocacy.
- Maintain and organize comprehensive case files for a high-volume caseload, ensuring timely communication between attorneys, clients, and external agencies.
- Empower clients through their journey from arraignments through case closing, increasing their understanding of the judicial process and ability to make informed decisions.
Community Engagement Intern
New York County Defender Services
New York, NY
03.2024 - 08.2024
- Established and implemented NYCDS policy priorities in conjunction with leadership and NYCDS staff
- Coordinated legislative reform strategy in coalition with other groups
- Implemented communications strategy to change narrative about criminal legal system and support individual clients
- Ensured compliance with state and city lobbying guidelines
- Worked with training director and legal director to support implementation of Legislative/Policy reforms in the office
Operations Assistant
American University University Center
Washington, DC
08.2021 - 12.2023
- Served as a resource for the University Center footprint, by responding to questions, providing information & directions to areas on campus, displaying exemplary customer service in a a setting and utilizing effective decision-making ability affecting over 1000 students and visiting clients on campus.
- Solved problems timely and effectively, ensuring customer satisfaction.
- Assisted operations manager with planning of routine operations and special projects
Orientation Leader
American University New Student and Family Programs
Washington, DC
03.2023 - 11.2023
- Provided one-on-one support to over 60+ students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds to assist with the transition to college life.
- Fostered a sense of belonging through engagement with affinity programming, campus dialogues, and cohort-based initiatives.
- Supported implementation of campus partner sessions, Washington, DC excursions, and peer-led orientation activities.
Hospitality Assistant
American University Conference and Guest Services
Washington, DC
08.2022 - 08.2023
- Monitored and maintained conference facilities, furniture, and equipment, reporting operational issues to ensure safe and functional spaces.
- Assisted guests and campus partners by providing information about campus spaces and coordinating room usage.
School Counselor
NYC Student Youth Employment Program
Bronx, NY
06.2021 - 08.2021
- Served as a key liaison between K-5 students and program staff, addressing behavioral and academic needs while supporting positive youth development.
- Supported youth development by assisting students from diverse backgrounds with behavioral, academic, and social needs.
- Applied communication and conflict-resolution skills to promote positive learning environments and student well-being
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Justice And Law, Concentration: Criminology
American University
Washington, DC12-2023
Skills
- Legal Research, Criminal Procedure
- Discovery Review, Motion Drafting
- Policy Research, Legislative Advocacy
- Coalition Building, Client Communication
- Case Management, Community Engagement
- Microsoft Office, Legal Research Platforms (Justice Text, Legal Server, Lexus Nexus)
Timeline
Paralegal
New York County Defender Services
09.2024 - Current
Community Engagement Intern
New York County Defender Services
03.2024 - 08.2024
Orientation Leader
American University New Student and Family Programs
03.2023 - 11.2023
Hospitality Assistant
American University Conference and Guest Services
08.2022 - 08.2023
Operations Assistant
American University University Center
08.2021 - 12.2023
School Counselor
NYC Student Youth Employment Program
06.2021 - 08.2021
Bachelor of Arts - Justice And Law, Concentration: Criminology
American University