Removal Defense & Humanitarian Immigration Attorney - Downtown Boston

Law Offices of Rachel L Rado•Boston, MA

29d•$80,000 - $120,000•Onsite

About The Position

We are a Boston-based immigration law firm seeking a driven Immigration Defense Attorney to join our litigation and humanitarian practice. This role is ideal for an attorney who wants hands-on experience in removal defense, bond and custody litigation, detained representation, and complex humanitarian relief—while working within a firm that values structure, preparation, and professional growth. You will play a direct role in protecting clients’ liberty, keeping families together, and navigating high-stakes immigration proceedings. This is not a paper-pushing position. You will appear in court, argue bond, strategize cases, and collaborate closely with a strong paralegal and client relations team so you can focus on lawyering at a high level.

Requirements

J.D. from an accredited law school
Admission to a U.S. state bar (Massachusetts preferred)
Prior experience in immigration law strongly preferred, especially: Removal defense, Bond and custody work, Detained representation
Strong legal writing and oral advocacy skills
Ability to analyze criminal records and immigration consequences
High ethical standards, professionalism, and sound judgment
Ability to work effectively under pressure while maintaining quality
Ability and willingness to travel within Massachusetts and, when necessary, out of state for Immigration Court hearings, client interviews, detention facility visits, and other case-related proceedings.

Nice To Haves

Spanish proficiency strongly preferred (but not required)

Responsibilities

Appear in Immigration Court for Master Calendar Hearings and related proceedings
Review procedural posture, prior filings, and available relief
Enter appearances, file pleadings, motions to continue, and comply with IJ orders
Strategize case progression based on Individual Hearing (IH) timelines and posture
Coordinate court outcomes and next steps with firm staff and client relations teams
Prepare and litigate bond and custody cases for detained clients
Analyze immigration and criminal histories to assess detention eligibility and risk
Develop and argue dangerousness and flight risk positions
Prepare evidentiary and due process arguments, including jurisdictional challenges
Assemble and present bond packets, including cases involving parallel habeas relief
Conduct intake consultations for detained clients nationwide
Screen detained clients for relief eligibility (asylum, bond, SIJS, VAWA, T/U visas, 42B, etc.)
Develop factual records related to immigration history, criminal history, and fear of return
Communicate with detention centers, ERO officers, and EOIR clerks
Conduct in-person jail visits, including at Plymouth County Correctional Facility
Draft motions to recalendar, terminate, substitute counsel, and oppose DHS motions
Prepare EOIR status updates, motions for speedy hearings, and urgent filings
Draft affidavits and supporting evidence for bond hearings and Individual Hearings
Handle time-sensitive filings, including asylum applications and supporting documentation
Prepare and litigate SIJS-related dependency matters in Massachusetts Probate and Family Court
Draft and assemble dependency packets and coordinate service and court filings
Represent clients in naturalization (N-400) matters, including interview preparation and attendance
Identify good moral character and admissibility issues and advise clients accordingly
Work collaboratively with attorneys, paralegals, and client relations staff
Assist with IH preparation, client testimony development, and urgent case needs
Support detained clients and family members in understanding procedural outcomes
Participate in strategy discussions on priority and complex cases