Lead Attorney - Removal Defense

Role Objective We are seeking an exceptional bilingual (English/Spanish) removal defense attorney to join our team in a role that combines high-impact advocacy with meaningful leadership. This position is designed for a lawyer who is deeply committed to defending immigrants and equally committed to excellence in litigation, strategy, and team development. You will handle complex, high-stakes cases while helping shape a defense program that is rigorous, strategic, and uncompromising in quality. Why This Role Matters This is not a volume-driven role, it is a quality-driven one. Your work will directly impact clients facing life-altering outcomes, while also shaping how a team of attorneys shows up for them. We are building a practice that treats this work with the seriousness it deserves: deep care for our clients, and equally high standards for how we advocate on their behalf. Location Phoenix or Glendale, Arizona Responsibilities/Duties Deliver High-Stakes, High-Quality Advocacy Manage a sophisticated caseload of removal defense matters with significant consequences for clients and their families Represent clients in Individual and Master Calendar Hearings, bond proceedings, and appeals before the BIA Draft and argue complex motions, briefs, and appellate filings with precision and strategic depth Develop compelling case theories grounded in both law and narrative Prepare clients and witnesses with care, clarity, and rigor Take the lead on particularly complex or high-risk cases where strong advocacy is critical Develop Talent and Raise the Bar Mentor and supervise 1–2 removal defense attorneys with a focus on excellence, accountability, and growth Provide substantive, actionable feedback on legal writing, case strategy, and hearing preparation Coach attorneys to become confident, disciplined, and effective advocates Set a high standard for performance while investing in each attorney’s development Strengthen a High-Performing Defense Program Ensure consistent, high-quality hearing coverage across all matters Coordinate and oversee contract or coverage attorneys, holding them to the same rigorous standards Step in when needed to ensure no case is underprepared or unsupported Serve as a Strategic and Legal Leader Act as a trusted resource on complex issues, including criminal bars, discretionary risk, and procedural challenges Guide the team through urgent filings and time-sensitive matters with sound judgment Bring clarity and structure to difficult legal and strategic decisions Drive Excellence and Continuous Improvement Uphold and reinforce high standards across all removal defense work Identify patterns, gaps, and opportunities to improve systems and outcomes Partner with leadership to build a program that is not only mission-driven but consistently excellent in execution Success Attributes A strong commitment to immigrant defense and client-centered advocacy Demonstrated excellence in litigation, legal writing, and case strategy The ability to manage complex, high-pressure cases with sound judgment A thoughtful, direct approach to mentorship and team development A mindset that values both compassion and rigor Compensation and Benefits Base: $130,000-$155,000 (DOE) Benefits: PTO, Paid Holidays, Healthcare Options, and Professional Development Support. #J-18808-Ljbffr Jobless