Staff Attorney - Immigration Law Project

ILP, a client-centered, trauma-informed and anti-racist practice, has been providing free or low-cost legal services to low- and moderate- income immigrant victims of crime, violence, abuse, trafficking and torture, since 1988. ILP is recognized by the Department of Justice and staffed with attorneys, accredited representatives, paralegals and fellows who specialize in immigration law, including family-based petitions, applications for permanent residency, waivers, naturalization, deportation and removal defense, with a focus on humanitarian-based relief such as VAWA self-petitions, U Visas, SIJS and asylum.

Responsibilities:

• Learn and integrate a trauma-informed, client-centered approach, using an anti-oppressive lens, into your work with clients.
• The Staff Attorney is responsible for providing direct legal services, including consultations and representation before the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and Executive Office for Immigration Review, and for conducting presentations and trainings to internal and external audiences, including community-based organizations and other service-based providers on matters of immigration law.
• The Staff Attorney also represents the program before USCIS during district stakeholder meetings and collaborates with other organizations on issues pertaining to ILP’s mission.
• In addition, the Staff Attorney contributes to the supervision and oversight of support staff, volunteers and student interns.

Qualifications:

• Must have a Doctor of Jurisprudence degree from an accredited law school, be admitted to the Bar and have at least 2 years of related experience. New graduates who have completed an approved fellowship may be considered. Must be admitted to practice of law in any state in the U.S.
• Expertise and experience in representing clients in affirmative applications before USCIS and in removal proceedings before the Immigration Courts are essential.
• Must have prior experience in and/or thorough knowledge of issues affecting survivors of domestic violence, crime, abuse, torture and persecution.
• Must possess strong oral and written communications skills, including the ability to convey legal concepts to lay people.
• Fluency in Spanish is required. Other foreign language skills may be considered.
• Admission to practice and experience litigating in the federal courts preferred but not required.

Required skills:

• Must possess strong oral and written communications skills, including the ability to convey legal concepts to lay people.
• The ability to write routine reports, court documents, case notes, pleadings and correspondence in a clear, concise and effective manner is essential.
• Must be creative and have critical thinking skills.
• Must be a persuasive and effective communicator.
• Prior experience organizing and executing group trainings and information exchanges is preferred.
• Must possess demonstrated appropriate communications skills with client populations, colleagues and court staff.
• Problem-solving, prioritizing, time management, team-building and organizational skills are also essential.
• Must be familiar with legal services, resources and procedures available in New York City.
• Must possess a knowledge and understanding of economic issues facing domestic violence victims, including but not limited to housing, public benefits and child support.
• Strong networking skills and the ability to develop and maintain relationships with various individuals, organizations and government agencies is essential.

This position is subject to a collective bargaining agreement to be negotiated with local 2325 of the UAW.

If hired, I agree to abide by all of Safe Horizon’s rules and regulations, and understand that, if employed, my employment may be terminated with or without cause, and with or without notice, at any time, at the option of either the company or me. I further understand that no representation, whether oral or written by any representative or agent of the organization, at any time, constitutes a contract of employment.

AmeriCorps, Peace Corps and other national service alumni are encouraged to apply.

Technology Statement:

Applicants may be responsible for providing the equipment and tools they need to work remotely as required, such as access to a computer, internet service, and phone service. Safe Horizon will discuss potential solutions with candidates and may assist where needed and agreed to in advance.

Please follow this link to view complete EEO Law and complaint filing information:

https://www.eeoc.gov/sites/default/files/2023-06/22-088_EEOC_KnowYourRights6.12ScreenRdr.pdf

Know Your Rights: Workplace discrimination is illegal.

Hiring Range: $64,000.00 - $67,500.00 Annual
Full-time Hours: 35 Hours per week
Full-time Benefits: Vacation Time, Paid Sick Time, Holidays, Medical, Dental, Vision, 403(b) Retirement Plan, Company Life Insurance, Medical/Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts, Tuition Assistance Program, Commuter Benefits Program, Gym Reimbursement, Parental Leave, Employee Learning Center