Senior Paralegal, Defensive

Job Description

Job Description

Location / Remote work:  Fairfax or Charlottesville, VA; Silver Spring, MD; Newark or Haddonfield, NJ; IL, NY. 

Position Type:  Full-time, hybrid for the first 90 days; potential full-remote afterward with occasional in-office days (a few per year)

Reports To:  Director of Legal Operations
Department:  Defensive
FLSA Status: Non -Exempt

About us

Murray Osorio PLLC is a fast-growing immigration law firm dedicated to making a positive impact on people’s lives. Our firm represents clients and companies in courts, offices, and consular posts worldwide. We specialize in removal defense, humanitarian applications, family-based immigration, criminal immigration, employment-based immigration, naturalization, and appellate and federal litigation. 

At Murray Osorio PLLC, we pride ourselves on collaboration, professionalism, and a strong commitment to our mission of providing exceptional legal services while fostering a supportive, inclusive, and energetic workplace. 

Position Overview

The Senior Paralegal, Defensive position is part of one of four legal teams at Murray Osorio. The ideal candidate will have the opportunity to expand their knowledge of Removal Defense.  

This candidate will be the first point of contact with clients in the preparation of their case before any Immigration Court across the country. You will be working with various immigration agencies and third-party professionals pertaining to the client’s needs. The position offers a rich environment where the ideal candidate will be exposed to specialize in handling complex cases before the Immigration Court.

This is a full-time hybrid position for the initial 90 days of employment .  After a successful 90-day period, the possibility of a fully remote position will be presented, with   occasional mandated in-office days (typically a few per year) required. Employees must reside within a commutable distance of their assigned office in VA, MD, or NJ (typically within 75 miles) and be available for in-person client meetings or office events as scheduled. Remote work is available for candidates based in IL or NY

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in the preparation of several forms of relief (such as I-589s, 42A/B’s, I-601, I-485s, etc.) before the immigration court.
• Collect supporting evidence and conduct country conditions research to support the client’s case.
• Complete affidavits with clients and any witnesses.
• Assist in the preparation of simple and/or complex motions.
• Assist with the preparation of the exhibits list along with the exhibit packet for individual hearings.
• Responsible for e-filing through ECAS for allowed cases.
• Interpret cases as needed, such as the client’s individual hearing preparation. 
• Maintain and update the case-management database.
• Maintain direct client contact (phone calls/emails).
• Schedule appointments for hearings, manage the calendar, and set deadlines.
• Work with the Legal Assistant Team to ensure filing arrives at the proper location.
• Develop effective working relationships and communicate with attorneys, staff, and clients. 

Required Qualifications

• Must be fluent in Spanish (reading, writing, speaking) 
• High School Diploma/GED 
• Minimum of 2 years of work experience in immigration law 
• Knowledge of Immigration Court Procedures 
• Able to handle a high volume of work independently and in teams 
• Able to work in a fast-paced environment 
• Strong communication skills 
• Detail-oriented and highly organized 
• Enthusiasm to learn and take on new challenges 
• Excellent customer service skills
• Proficiency with the Microsoft Office Suite 

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience using Docketwise, Salesforce, Filevine, SharePoint, and Zoom
• Working knowledge of Adobe Pro
• Bachelor's/associate degree with paralegal studies (ABA approved) 

Benefits

At Murray Osorio PLLC, we value our employees and offer a competitive benefits package, including

• Commitment to professional growth and continuous learning
• Competitive compensation and benefits package, including: 
• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• 401(k) with company match 
• Paid time off and holidays
• Paid Parental Leave (available after one year of service).
• On-site and nearby parking options are available for employee convenience

Why Join Us?
This role provides the opportunity to grow your administrative and legal career in a collaborative, supportive, and dynamic environment. You’ll gain exposure to a variety of immigration law cases while contributing to the efficiency and success of our operations team. If you are motivated, detail-oriented, and passionate about making a difference, we would love to have you on our team!