Staff Attorney - Immigration Unit

Legal Services NYC•New York, NY

4d•$88,181 - $169,852•Hybrid

About The Position

Legal Services NYC (LSNYC) is seeking a full-time Staff Attorney for its Immigration Unit at Staten Island Legal Services (SILS). SILS is dedicated to fighting poverty and promoting justice for low-income New Yorkers, offering high-quality legal representation in various areas including immigration. The Immigration Unit provides comprehensive legal services to individuals and families facing complex immigration issues. The Staff Attorney will represent clients in immigration court, handle affirmative applications, and advocate for youth in Special Immigrant Juvenile Status cases. This role involves working closely with a social worker and the Director of Immigration, providing trauma-informed, client-centered advocacy in a hybrid work environment.

Requirements

Admitted or be in the process of being admitted to practice law in the State of New York.
Demonstrated commitment to social justice and serving low-income immigrant communities.
Excellent analytical, written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.

Nice To Haves

Candidates already authorized to practice law in immigration court, New York state court, and in other immigration legal venues preferred.
At least 2-3 years of immigration law direct services experience is preferred.
Experience with immigration litigation and/or removal defense, including representing clients before EOIR, including motions practice and merits hearings, and experience with BIA appeals is preferred.
Experience working with clients who have experienced trauma and other vulnerable populations (particularly domestic violence survivors, LGBTQ+ communities, and youth).
Fluency or proficiency in Spanish is preferred.

Responsibilities

Represent individuals and families in removal proceedings before Immigration Court, and in administrative and federal appeals.
Handle affirmative immigration matters, including asylum applications, family-based petitions, consular processing, naturalization, VAWA self-petitions, U and T visa petitions, and other immigration benefits.
Represent clients in Family Court proceedings related to Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS) cases.
Represent clients during orders of supervisions and other check-ins.
Collaborate with the unit's staff social worker to provide trauma-informed representation and holistic advocacy.
Conduct client intake, community education, and outreach activities.
Work collaboratively with attorneys and advocates across LSNYC units and boroughs on cross-disciplinary initiatives.
Collaborate with Citywide Litigation on habeas petitions when necessary.
Partner with community-based organizations on campaigns, projects, and advocacy efforts.
Mentor and support pro bono partners, legal volunteers, and interns.
Complete administrative responsibilities, including timekeeping, document management, data reporting, and grant compliance requirements.