Description:
Summary:ILP, a client-centered, trauma-informed and anti-racist practice, has been providing free or low-cost legal services to low- and moderate- income immigrant victims of crime, violence, abuse, trafficking and torture, since 1988. ILP is recognized by the Department of Justice and staffed with attorneys, accredited representatives, paralegals and fellows who specialize in immigration law, including family-based petitions, applications for permanent residency, waivers, naturalization, deportation and removal defense, with a focus on humanitarian-based relief such as VAWA self-petitions, U Visas, SIJS and asylum.
Responsibilities:
- For Program and Client-Facing Staff: Learn and integrate a trauma-informed, client-centered approach, using an anti-oppressive lens, into your work with clients.
- For Program and Supervisors Supporting Client-Facing Staff: Learn and integrate a trauma-informed, client-centered approach, using an anti-oppressive lens, into your work with clients. Coach and guide staff in their client practice that reflects these approaches.
The Staff Attorney is responsible for providing direct legal services, including consultations and representation before the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and Executive Office for Immigration Review, and for conducting presentations and trainings to internal and external audiences, including community-based organizations and other service-based providers on matters of immigration law. The Staff Attorney also represents the program before USCIS during district stakeholder meetings and collaborates with other organizations on issues pertaining to ILP's mission. In addition, the Staff Attorney contributes to the supervision and oversight of support staff, volunteers and student interns.
Qualifications:
- Must have a Doctor of Jurisprudence degree from an accredited law school, be admitted to the Bar and have at least 2 years of related experience. New graduates who have completed an approved fellowship may be considered. Must be admitted to practice of law in any state in the U.S.
- Expertise and experience in representing clients in affirmative applications before USCIS and in removal proceedings before the Immigration Courts are essential.
- Must have prior experience in and/or thorough knowledge of issues affecting survivors of domestic violence, crime, abuse, torture and persecution.
- Must possess strong oral and written communications skills, including the ability to convey legal concepts to lay people.
- Fluency in Spanish is required. Other foreign language skills may be considered.
- Admission to practice and experience litigating in the federal courts preferred but not required.
Required Skills:
Must possess strong oral and written communications skills, including the ability to convey legal concepts to lay people. The ability to write routine reports, court documents, case notes, pleadings and correspondence in a clear, concise and effective manner is essential. Must be creative and have critical thinking skills. Must be a persuasive and effective communicator. Prior experience organizing and executing group trainings and information exchanges is preferred. Must possess demonstrated appropriate communications skills with client populations, colleagues and court staff. Problem-solving, prioritizing, time management, team-building and organizational skills are also essential. Must be familiar with legal services, resources and procedures available in New York City. Must possess a knowledge and understanding of economic issues facing domestic violence victims, including but not limited to housing, public benefits and child support. Strong networking skills and the ability to develop and maintain relationships with various individuals, organizations and government agencies is essential.
