Staff Attorney

NYLAG • New York, NY

4d

About The Position

New York Legal Assistance Group (NYLAG) seeks a highly motivated Staff Attorney for a full-time position dedicated to serving the needs of immigrants through innovative partnerships with community-based organizations, including a network of shelters serving New York City residents. Through a comprehensive model, we hope to meet the full range of immigration needs of our partner organizations’ communities.

The job requires a broad substantive knowledge of immigration law and avenues to immigration status, experience working with families experiencing instability in their lives, a keen eye for prospective relief options, and a desire to adapt programming as needed to meet the needs of the community as they arise. Candidates will have a proactive ability to solve problems under time pressure, a strong commitment to clients, and a background in trauma-informed advocacy. The Staff Attorney will work within the Immigrant Protection Unit at NYLAG under the supervision of a Supervising Attorney.

Requirements

• Juris Doctorate from an accredited school.
• Admission to the New York State bar or a pending application for admission is required.
• Fluency in Spanish required.
• Minimum 1 year experience working in immigration law strongly preferred.
• Excellent writing, speaking and organizational skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively with clients, community organizations, attorneys, the judiciary and the public.
• Experience working with survivors of trauma and immigrants experiencing housing instability.
• Demonstrated commitment to immigrant rights and social justice.
• Ability to work in a collaborative setting with other professionals.
• Ability to work independently and under pressure.

Responsibilities

• Conduct legal screenings for immigrants and provide robust advice and counsel;
• Prepare and file applications for immigration status and Freedom of Information Act requests to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services and the Executive Office for Immigration Review, both pro se and with full representation, including notices of appeal, motions to reopen, and petitions for review;
• Participate in meetings and serve as a liaison to partner organizations and other external stakeholders;
• Track client cases, progress of applications, and follow up for funding and programmatic purposes. Assist Supervising Attorney in collaborating with community organizations, partners, and funders;
• Provide Know Your Rights presentations and attend other outreach events, including in-person clinics, as needed; and
• Perform other various duties, including giving general consults, advice, trainings, and mentoring of volunteers and pro bono.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree