Description:
Position Summary:The Staff Attorney serves as the primary legal provider for the Afghan Legal Relief Project. The attorney will provide direct representation to Afghan clients, manage an independent caseload, and collaborate closely with CIRI's Refugee Services team to ensure clients receive coordinated, holistic support. The position may also work with pro bono attorneys and volunteers to expand legal service capacity.
Essential Responsibilities:
- Provide legal consultations, case assessments, and direct representation for Afghan clients seeking immigration relief, including asylum, TPS, family-based petitions, and other humanitarian options.
- Prepare, file, and manage immigration applications and supporting documentation.
- Represent clients during immigration interviews and other proceedings, as appropriate.
- Independently manage a full caseload while ensuring timely, accurate, and high-quality legal services.
- Collaborate with CIRI's Refugee Services staff to coordinate comprehensive client support.
- Assist with coordinating and supporting pro bono attorneys and legal volunteers.
- Conduct community outreach, legal information sessions, and educational presentations regarding immigration options and eligibility.
- Maintain complete, accurate, and confidential client records in accordance with legal and organizational standards.
- Stay informed of changes in immigration laws, regulations, and policies affecting Afghan clients and humanitarian immigration programs.
Qualifications:
- J.D. or LL.M. from an accredited law school.
- Active membership in good standing with the bar of any U.S. jurisdiction.
- Minimum of two (2) years of immigration law experience.
- Strong knowledge of asylum law, Temporary Protected Status (TPS), and other humanitarian forms of immigration relief.
- Experience serving low-income immigrant populations and individuals who have experienced trauma preferred.
- Ability to work independently while effectively managing a high-volume caseload.
- Excellent organizational, written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
- Strong attention to detail and sound legal judgment.
- Demonstrated commitment to serving refugee and immigrant communities and advancing CIRI's mission.