Lead Staff Immigration Attorney

1 month ago


Chicago, United States Institute For Latino Progress Full time
Job DescriptionJob Description

Lead Staff Immigration Attorney - IDPL (Citizenship)


COMPANY DESCRIPTION
Instituto del Progreso Latino is a community organization whose mission is to contribute to the fullest development of Latino(a) immigrants and their families through education, training and employment that fosters participation in the changing U.S. society while preserving cultural identity and dignity. Founded in 1977 to help Latino’s learn basic skills, pass the civil service exam and obtain higher paying post office jobs, Instituto has grown to a flourishing educational center serving over 14,000 Chicago families per year.


POSITION DESCRIPTION

The Lead Staff Immigration Attorney at Instituto del Progreso Latino is responsible for directing daily operations for Immigration Legal services and supervising a small group of attorneys and intake assistants to conduct attorney based legal reviews for eligibility and submit applications to USCIS for TPS, Asylum, EAD, Parole in Place, U Visas and other forms of affirmative relief. The Lead Staff Immigration Attorney will also provide a limited amount of direct legal representation and immigration legal service counseling to immigrants appearing before the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), for the above matters. The position also provides technical support to pro bono counsel. The Lead Staff Immigration Attorney who joins Instituto will be expected to assume the following responsibilities:


ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Manage and direct day to day operations for Immigration Legal services and supervise a small group of attorneys and intake assistants to conduct attorney based legal reviews for eligibility and submit applications for forms of relief such as TPS, Asylum, EAD, Parole in Place, U Visas and other forms of affirmative relief.
  • Manage case docketing and decisions in regard to representation, for example to refer matters to private attorneys, to accept on a limited scope basis, or to accept with full representation.
  • Prepare a limited number of cases for interview or hearing, including drafting legal papers, conducting client advocacy, presenting evidence, etc. in accordance with the Code of Professional Responsibility for the legal profession.
  • Analyze the workflow of the Immigration Legal Services Office, including client communication, document handling, case load, and customer service; and to make recommendations for systems improvement, and help the executive and management team to implement such recommendations.
  • Work with program partners and local universities to recruit program interns, obtain expert advice for complicated cases, and expand ties with key partners.
  • Carries a volume of work as required by the department.
  • Collaborate with and provide legal advice to pro bono attorneys and DOJ accredited representatives on their immigration law caseload.
  • Assist Human Resources in Establishing Evaluation Criteria for legal staff employee evaluations, and quality of legal assistance and document handling.
  • Work on developing and maintaining training standards and materials for all immigration staff and pro bono attorneys.
  • Monitor changes to immigration law, regulations and policy. Prepare for significant changes in immigration law and their impact on client services.
  • Represent Instituto at community functions, and at other events as requested.
  • Assist with centralized workshop staffing by attending workshops on site as requested.
  • Assist with identifying, vetting, and writing proposals for funding for immigration legal services when requested by the Development Department and executive staff.
  • Conduct Know Your Rights presentations and other related workshops.
  • Supervise intakes at off-site Immigration Clinics at partnering organizations.
  • Provides technical support to pro bono counsel.
  • Remains current on immigration law, policies and procedures. Remains current on implications of criminal and civil law as it applies to the representation of immigrants.
  • Develops and maintains professional relationships with EOIR, DHS, U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS), government and social service organizations and community organizations as necessary.
  • Interprets immigration and department policies and programs to the public, including public speaking.
  • In accord with the ethical standards required of the legal profession, the Code of Professional Responsibility, preserves client confidentiality, accounts for client monies and avoids conflict of interest.
  • Perform other responsibilities needed to ensure Instituto Immigration team’s success.

QUALIFICATIONS, EXPERIENCE/EDUCATION

  • Juris Doctorate Degree required.
  • At least three years of practicing law with a preference in immigration and/or human rights law.
  • Self-motivated and committed to civil liberties advocacy.
  • Ability to represent individuals in complex cases and to formulate and implement sophisticated legal strategies.
  • Demonstrated ability to work cooperatively on a variety of projects with lawyers, other staff members, and diverse community organizations and coalitions.
  • Immigration Court experience.
  • Demonstrated team-player with exemplary interpersonal skills in collaborating and communicating with others.
  • Ability to succeed in a fast-paced nonprofit start-up environment.
  • Fluency in Spanish strongly preferred.
  • Excellent writing and analytical skills.
  • Ability to communicate effectively in legal and non-legal settings with a wide range of individuals and organizations.
  • Ability to read, analyze, and interpret professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations.
  • Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals.
  • Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, clients, customers, and the general public.

The above is intended to describe the general conditions of and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities and requirements.


PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Nature of work requires an ability to stand for long periods of time, speak during presentations in front of groups, and operate standard business office equipment. Requires ability to communicate and exchange information, collect, compile and prepare work documents, set-up and maintain work files. Must be available to work on site at Instituto del Progreso Latino and/or centralized workshop as required.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Majority of work performed in a general classroom and office environment. Position requires availability for extended hours plus non-traditional hours required to perform job duties. Also requires participation and attendance at organization sponsored events and meetings.


Instituto del Progreso Latino is an Equal Opportunity Employer




  • Chicago, Illinois, United States National Immigrant Justice Center Full time

    Position OverviewOrganization BackgroundThe National Immigrant Justice Center (NIJC) is dedicated to promoting human rights and ensuring due process for immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers through comprehensive legal assistance, strategic litigation, advocacy, and educational outreach. With a central office in Chicago and additional locations across the...

  • Immigration Attorney

    2 weeks ago


    Chicago, IL, United States Alexandra Lozano Immigration Law PLLC Full time

    Overview:Do you want a job where you can show up and make a difference in the world every day? Are you ready to join a dynamic, mission-driven company? At Alexandra Lozano Immigration Law (AA) we are dedicated to changing the lives of the Latino immigrant community through zealous advocacy, finding creative solutions and aggressive legal strategies.Apply...

  • Immigration Attorney

    3 months ago


    Chicago, United States The Matian Firm, APC Full time

    Job DescriptionJob DescriptionAt The Matian Firm, we're passionate about protecting our clients' rights, and it shows in our results. We have a history of success built on lasting relationships that produce results with outstanding value for our clients. We're looking for an admitted attorney, for an extremely promising Associate Immigration...


  • Chicago, Illinois, United States National Immigrant Justice Center Full time

    Position OverviewOrganization BackgroundThe National Immigrant Justice Center (NIJC) is dedicated to promoting human rights and ensuring due process for immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers through comprehensive legal services, impactful litigation, advocacy efforts, and educational initiatives. With its headquarters in Chicago and additional offices in...


  • Chicago, Illinois, United States National Immigrant Justice Center Full time

    Job OverviewAbout the National Immigrant Justice Center (NIJC)Are you dedicated to advocating for the rights of immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers? The National Immigrant Justice Center (NIJC) is committed to providing essential legal services and advocating for the rights of these vulnerable populations through policy reform, impactful litigation, and...


  • Chicago, United States Bay Immigration Law Full time

    POSITION OVERVIEW:The 'Associate Attorney, Business Immigration (O-1/EB-1/EB-2 NIW)' is responsible for preparing O-1/EB-1/EB-2 NIW cases. This includes drafting sample recommendation letters, Letters of Support, forms, compiling case packets, etc., under supervision of Partners. The Associate Attorney will also be responsible for overseeing a team of...


  • Chicago, United States Bay Immigration Law Full time

    POSITION OVERVIEW:The "Associate Attorney, Business Immigration (O-1/EB-1/EB-2 NIW)" is responsible for preparing O-1/EB-1/EB-2 NIW cases. This includes drafting sample recommendation letters, Letters of Support, forms, compiling case packets, etc., under supervision of Partners. The Associate Attorney will also be responsible for overseeing a team of...


  • Chicago, United States Bay Immigration Law Full time

    POSITION OVERVIEW:The "Associate Attorney, Business Immigration (O-1/EB-1/EB-2 NIW)" is responsible for preparing O-1/EB-1/EB-2 NIW cases. This includes drafting sample recommendation letters, Letters of Support, forms, compiling case packets, etc., under supervision of Partners. The Associate Attorney will also be responsible for overseeing a team of...


  • chicago, United States Bay Immigration Law Full time

    POSITION OVERVIEW:The "Associate Attorney, Business Immigration (O-1/EB-1/EB-2 NIW)" is responsible for preparing O-1/EB-1/EB-2 NIW cases. This includes drafting sample recommendation letters, Letters of Support, forms, compiling case packets, etc., under supervision of Partners. The Associate Attorney will also be responsible for overseeing a team of...


  • Chicago, Illinois, United States National Immigrant Justice Center Full time

    Position OverviewOrganization BackgroundThe National Immigrant Justice Center (NIJC) is dedicated to promoting human rights and ensuring due process for immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers through comprehensive legal services, impactful litigation, advocacy efforts, and educational initiatives. With a robust team of legal professionals, NIJC is at the...


  • Chicago, United States Bay Immigration Law Full time

    POSITION OVERVIEW:The "Senior Immigration Paralegal - O-1/EB-1" is responsible for preparing O-1/EB-1 cases. This includes drafting sample recommendation letters, Letters of Support, forms, compiling case packets, etc., under supervision of Case Managers, Case Directors, and Attorneys.RESPONSIBILITIES:• Maintain ongoing communication with the client...


  • chicago, United States Bay Immigration Law Full time

    POSITION OVERVIEW:The "Senior Immigration Paralegal - O-1/EB-1" is responsible for preparing O-1/EB-1 cases. This includes drafting sample recommendation letters, Letters of Support, forms, compiling case packets, etc., under supervision of Case Managers, Case Directors, and Attorneys.RESPONSIBILITIES:• Maintain ongoing communication with the client...


  • Chicago, United States National Immigrant Justice Center Full time

    Job DescriptionJob DescriptionAbout NIJCAre you passionate about championing the rights of immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers? Look no further than the National Immigrant Justice Center (NIJC, NFP) The National Immigrant Justice Center (NIJC, NFP) provides direct legal services to, and advocates for, immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers through...

  • Immigration Attorney

    4 weeks ago


    Chicago, United States Beacon Hill Full time

    Beacon Hill is seeking a remote temporary immigration attorney. Our client's Global Mobility and Migration practice would like to engage a contract attorney for a four-month period. The contract attorney will be assigned to client-chargeable work in the area of reviews of government filings. Given the GMM pipeline of work, including matters clients have...


  • Chicago, Illinois, United States National Immigrant Justice Center Full time

    Job OverviewAbout the National Immigrant Justice Center (NIJC)Are you dedicated to defending the rights of immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers? The National Immigrant Justice Center (NIJC) is committed to providing essential legal services and advocating for the rights of these vulnerable populations through policy reform, impactful litigation, and...


  • Chicago, Illinois, United States National Immigrant Justice Center Full time

    Job OverviewAbout the National Immigrant Justice Center (NIJC)Are you dedicated to advocating for the rights of immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers? The National Immigrant Justice Center (NIJC) is committed to providing essential legal services and advocacy for these vulnerable populations through policy reform, impactful litigation, and educational...


  • Chicago, Illinois, United States Citizenship and Immigration Services Full time

    Position OverviewThis role is situated within the Field Operations Directorate, focusing on overseeing immigration services. As a Lead Immigration Services Supervisor, you will be responsible for directing and managing independent investigations into the eligibility and rights of individuals seeking immigration benefits, employment, or legal status under the...


  • Chicago, Illinois, United States Citizenship and Immigration Services Full time

    Position OverviewThis role is situated within the Field Operations Directorate. As a Lead Immigration Services Supervisor, you will be responsible for directing and managing independent investigations concerning the eligibility and rights of individuals seeking immigration advantages, employment, or legal standing under the Immigration and Nationality...

  • Associate Attorney

    2 months ago


    Chicago, United States Chicago Immigration Advocates Law Offices Full time

    Immigration law firm located in Downtown Chicago, concentrating in removal defense and appellate work, seeks licensed attorney with preferably 1-4 years of experience in immigration law. Attorneys with experience in family-based and removal cases will receive priority but business immigration experience also looked upon favorably. Bilingual in English and...

  • Associate Attorney

    2 months ago


    Chicago, United States Chicago Immigration Advocates Law Offices Full time

    Immigration law firm located in Downtown Chicago, concentrating in removal defense and appellate work, seeks licensed attorney with preferably 1-4 years of experience in immigration law. Attorneys with experience in family-based and removal cases will receive priority but business immigration experience also looked upon favorably. Bilingual in English and...