Immigration Staff Attorney

Catholic Charities Diocese•San Diego, CA

9d•$75,000 - $80,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The Immigration Staff Attorney supports the Managing Attorney in the operation of Immigration Services in Imperial Valley. This position will provide robust direct legal representation to low-income immigrant individuals and families in Imperial County in affirmative immigration matters. This position requires travel to El Centro on a weekly basis with use of agency vehicle.

Requirements

Law Degree (JD) from an ABA-Accredited S. institution
Minimum of 1-2 years or more of immigration law experience
Ability to counsel clients regarding immigration law, procedures, forms, and eligibility
Ability to represent clients before USCIS and Immigration Court
Ability to provide training to volunteer attorneys and interns regarding immigration law, procedures, forms, eligibility criteria
Must possess strong legal research and writing skills
Bilingual English/Spanish
Valid California Drivers License
Current automobile insurance in compliance with Agency requirements
Completion of DMV Employer Pull Program paperwork
Completion of a background check
Member of the Bar Association, preferably California (admitted and in continued good standing)

Nice To Haves

Familiarity of local DHS and USCIS offices and procedures, preferred

Responsibilities

Conduct legal consultations and determine eligibility for immigration benefits both virtually and in person with the El Centro office.
Prepare and file cases with USCIS seeking to maintain and/or obtain lawful status in the USA.
Provide legal opinion as to acceptance of new cases/clients for legal services.
Preparation and submission of applications, legal briefs, and supporting documentation as needed in affirmative USCIS processes
Works in partnership with Managing Attorney to develop and recommend case strategy
Assist IS team as needed and practicable for supporting IS caseload in Imperial County
Attend trainings and courses to remain updated on immigration law and policy, including additional trainings on AOS and complex waivers as needed
Provide training to affirmative legal team, including case review upon request
Participate in workshops for the public and collaborative partners on immigration law and understanding individual rights
Work with the Managing Attorney and/or Program Support Manager on projects as needed
Assist department administration in the development and expansion of its Immigration services and resources
Support Managing Attorney as program lead for volunteer attorneys and legal interns.
Assist Managing Attorney, in the administration of attorney programming
Submit program reports and statistics in a timely manner
Perform additional duties as assigned