Immigration Staff Attorney - New York

About CWS

Imagine waking up every morning with the chance to change someone's life. Imagine knowing your efforts will benefit both your career and our neighbors around the world. At CWS, our team knows they are making a difference every day. Whether you're in our U.S.-based offices supporting refugees, asylees or unaccompanied children ... implementing hygiene initiatives in Cambodia or rebuilding projects in Central America ... or even connecting remotely from your home on fundraising campaigns, grant reports, or critical communications - you have the opportunity to work towards a world where everyone has food, a voice and a safe place to call home. 

Overview

Location/ Work Arrangement: New York City/ Hybrid 

Salary Minimum: $66,400 - Salary Maximum: $83,000

Geographical Difference: This position may be eligible for 7.5% geographical differential  

raising the band to minimum to $71,380; and target max to $89,225. 

Purpose

To provide legal representation to clients in accordance with the terms of CWS contracts with the funding sources. This position is responsible for case file reviews, court representation and service provision. The position will be hybrid within the NY metro area.

Responsibilities

• Conduct intake interviews with clients; prepare clients for court appearances and/or USCIS interviews.
• Represent CWS clients as primary attorney of record at USCIS and EOIR, including but not limited to: Immigration Interviews, Asylum Hearings; Master/Individual Calendar Hearings; and submission of briefs to the Board of Immigration Appeals.
• Engage with USCIS and other immigration agencies on behalf of clients and/or in support of clients’ immigration cases.
• Conduct legal research and draft supplemental statements, rebuttals to Notices of Intent to Deny and Requests for Evidence; prepare and file immigration applications and motions; prepare other ancillary immigration papers, including Freedom of Information Act reques
• Manage caseload and maintain client files in good order and in designated database, include photocopying applications, letters, supporting documentation, and follow-ups. Conduct periodic case reviews.
• Represent CWS New York at community meetings and participate in education and outreach activities.
• Support the development of grant applications and reports, and new programs on behalf of CWS New York.
• Promote CWS New York’s legal service program and program vision through various media including newspaper, radio and television.
• Prepare packages and provide primary representation before USCIS or EOIR to assist in the fee-for-service program for the office.
• Provide support for paralegals, including but not limited to training, reviewing packages, and preparing program documentations as necessary.
• Supervise designated paralegal(s) when needed.
• Perform other related duties and special projects, as requested.

Qualifications

Education: Law degree with specialization in Immigration law. Admission to a state bar required; ability to practice in the State of New York preferred.

Experience: Previous work experience with immigration representation and other areas of immigration law, including asylum representation is required. 

Skills:

• A minimum of 2 years' experience with immigration law and procedures preferred, both affirmative cases and removal defense.
• Demonstrated cultural competency in fast-paced work environment.
• Fluency in written and oral English and a second language, Spanish strongly preferred.
• Experience and comfort with public speaking.
• Self-motivated, detail oriented, well-organized, and the ability to prioritize assignments and workload.
• Ability to communicate effectively and build mutually respectful relationships with co-workers, clients, and the public.
• Familiarity with software applications in a Windows and cloud-based environment, including Microsoft Office and immigration case management applications.
• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion and willingness to support CWS’ Platform on Racial Justice as a CWS employee required.