Staff Attorney, Asylum Project, NIJC

National Immigrant Justice Center•Chicago, IL

About The Position

The National Immigrant Justice Center (NIJC) advances human rights and due process for immigrants, refugees and asylum seekers through direct legal services, impact litigation, advocacy, and public education. Headquartered in Chicago with offices in Washington, DC, Indiana, and San Diego, NIJC's team of 100 attorneys, paralegals, and professionals, along with 2,000 pro bono attorneys, is at the forefront of immigration reform. Summary: NIJC seeks human rights/immigration attorneys with all years of experience, including recent law graduates to join our nationally recognized team. Attorneys at NIJC engage at forefront of impact litigation, public policy advocacy, and furthering NIJC's mission. Successful candidates will work independently and collaboratively, locally and nationally, demonstrating meticulous attention to detail, clear communication, and effective time management.

Requirements

Juris Doctor (JD) required, plus at least one year of experience in legal representation and/or social services.
This position requires regular communication with clients in Spanish. Candidates must be proficient in spoken and written Spanish
Strong reading and writing skills, including the ability to interpret legal and technical materials.
Able to draft reports, correspondence, and procedural documents.
Comfortable presenting information and responding to questions from diverse audiences, including clients, colleagues, and the public.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with low-income immigrants, children, or survivors of violence preferred.

Responsibilities

Conducts preliminary intake interviews, gathering all relevant facts for presentation in supervisory meetings.
Assesses income eligibility and recommends appropriate referrals for those individuals not eligible for NIJC's services.
Provides pro se support when appropriate.
Develops and implements case strategies through independent research and writing as well as collaboration with colleagues.
Prepares cases for hearings by drafting legal documents, engaging in negotiation, preparing clients for testimony, and presenting evidence.
Remains current on immigration law, policies, and procedures.
Develops and maintains professional relationships with the U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS), government and social service organizations, and community organizations.
Maintains complete and accurate client records.
Prepares timely statistical reports.
Conducts quarterly case audits for presentation and review of the Supervisor.
Participates in training on immigration procedures as assigned by the Supervisor.
May conduct training sessions as assigned by the Supervisor.
Participates in developing and implementing special projects.
Identifies trends and recurring legal and social concerns.
Recommends strategies for solutions and other needed advocacy.