A nonprofit legal services organization serving low-income individuals and families is seeking an Immigration Staff Attorney to join its growing immigration legal team. The organization provides free immigration legal assistance, advocacy, outreach, and support to immigrant communities throughout New York City.
The Staff Attorney will provide high-quality legal representation in immigration matters while supervising paralegals, case managers, and/or accredited representatives. This position combines direct client advocacy, staff supervision, case preparation, community outreach, and program support. The attorney will work closely with legal and program staff to assist clients with applications before U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), maintain accurate case records, communicate with government agencies, and ensure compliance with program and reporting requirements.
Key Responsibilities
- Supervise and mentor assigned staff, including paralegals, case managers, and/or accredited representatives.
- Assign and monitor work, establish priorities, approve schedules and leave, and ensure adherence to legal and program standards.
- Conduct performance evaluations and provide feedback and recommendations regarding staff performance.
- Provide training and guidance on case preparation, legal strategy, client services, and program requirements.
- Supervise preparation of affirmative immigration applications, including family petitions, adjustment of status, U visa petitions, naturalization applications, DACA renewals, and green card renewals.
- Manage an active immigration caseload from intake through resolution.
- Conduct client consultations, assess eligibility, provide legal advice and representation, and make referrals when appropriate.
- Assist clients with USCIS applications and communicate with government agencies regarding case status.
- Maintain complete and compliant case files, case notes, databases, and service records.
- Ensure accurate and timely data entry and reporting.
- Participate in staff meetings, case consultations, trainings, and strategic planning.
- Conduct community outreach, public education, and Know Your Rights presentations.
- Participate in in-person supervision and program activities as required.
- Exercise independent judgment to ensure client needs and program requirements are met.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
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Qualifications
- J.D. from an accredited law school.
- Admission to practice law in New York State.
- Experience or strong interest in immigration law and public interest advocacy.
- Strong organizational skills and ability to manage deadlines in a high-volume environment.
- Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office, databases, email, and standard office technology.
- Demonstrated commitment to social justice and working with low-income and diverse communities.
- Ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
- Spanish fluency or high proficiency strongly preferred; French proficiency desirable.