Staff Attorney

NYLAG•New York, NY

9d•$87,994 - $104,544•Hybrid

About The Position

NYLAG's Immigrant Protection Unit (IPU) seeks a highly motivated Spanish-speaking Staff Attorney for a permanent, full-time position. The job requires substantive knowledge and experience defending immigrants in removal proceedings including claims based on Asylum, Withholding of Removal, protection under the Convention Against Torture, Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS), relief under VAWA, and Adjustment of Status. Admission to the New York Bar and experience representing asylum seekers is preferred. Candidates will have a proactive ability to solve problems under time pressure, a strong commitment to client-centered services, and a background in trauma-informed advocacy. The Staff Attorney will report to a Supervising Attorney in IPU.

Requirements

Juris Doctorate from an accredited school.
Litigation experience required.
Minimum 2 years of experience appearing on behalf of immigrants before the immigration court required.
Fluency in Spanish required.
Excellent writing, speaking and organizational skills.
Ability to communicate effectively with clients, community organizations, attorneys, judiciary and the public.
Ability to work in a collaborative setting with other professionals.
Demonstrated commitment to advancing immigrant rights and social justice.
Experience working with immigrant survivors of trauma.
Ability to work independently and under pressure while managing multiple competing deadlines.
Ability to make creative arguments for complicated cases amidst a changing legal environment.

Nice To Haves

Admission to the New York State bar is preferred.
Experience in New York Family Court preferred.

Responsibilities

Conduct legal screenings and represent non-detained and detained immigrants, unaccompanied minors, and families in removal proceedings before NYC Immigration Court, USCIS (inc. the asylum office), New York Family Courts, and the Board of Immigration Appeals.
Attend court hearings, USCIS interviews, and ICE check-ins with clients as needed.
Prepare and file forms, affidavits, other supporting documents, motions, and legal memoranda.
Track client cases, progress of applications, and follow up for funding purposes.
Assist Supervising Attorney in collaborating with community organizations, partners, and other stakeholders.
Act as a liaison to partner organizations and other external stakeholders
Participate in screening clinics, Know Your Rights, and other types of outreach events.
Mentor interns, volunteers, and pro bonos.
Maintain up-to-date case notes, data tracking, and files.
Perform other various duties as needed.