Staff Attorney

Job Description

The Agency:

Americans for Immigrant Justice (AI Justice), an award-winning not-for-profit legal services organization founded in 1996 to protect and promote the basic human rights of immigrants, has a multicultural and a multilingual staff. AI Justice has represented clients from around the world and is recognized as a powerful advocate and national leader for immigrants' rights. AI Justice works closely with traditional civil rights groups as well as grassroots organizations and local, state and national government officials to affect positive change in immigration policies.

AI Justice is seeking a qualified, full-time Staff Attorney to join our dynamic legal team. The ideal candidate will have a strong commitment to providing exceptional legal counsel and representation. This role involves working closely with clients, handling a diverse caseload, and collaborating with other attorneys and staff within the firm. Key responsibilities include:

·      Provide expert legal advice and representation in immigration law.

·      Provide Know Your Rights presentations in the community.

·      Draft, review, and negotiate legal documents including contracts, pleadings, and agreements.

·      Represent clients in court, arbitration, mediation, or other immigration proceedings.

·      Conduct legal research and stay updated on relevant laws, regulations, and case precedents.

·      Manage a caseload efficiently, ensuring timely progression and resolution of matters.

·      Communicate effectively with clients, providing clear explanations and updates on case progress.

·      Collaborate with colleagues to develop strategies and solutions for complex legal issues.

·      Maintain high ethical standards and comply with all professional responsibilities and legal obligations.

·      Qualifications:

·      Any state bar membership required.

·      Preference for experience in immigration law.

·      Preference for experience working with domestic violence victims and/or other victims of trauma.

·      Strong writing, research and analytical skills; strong communication and group leadership skills

·      Interest in policy advocacy at the national level.

·      Excellent presentation skills for community outreach, education and training.

·      Ability to work independently and under pressure.

·      Ability to handle a high-volume caseload, with multiple deadlines and other tasks simultaneously.

·      Comfortable working in a collaborative environment that values giving and receiving feedback.

·      Experience with immigration and/or child dependency legal clinics in law school would be especially helpful. ·

·      Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

·      Fully bilingual, including reading and writing, in English, Spanish and/or Haitian Creole required. Speakers of Mayan languages strongly encouraged to apply.

·      Must have own transportation.

·      Must be willing to submit to an extensive background check, including FBI, statewide repository, and sex offender registry checks.

·      

Education: JD degree required.

Location: Candidate must be based in South Florida. Position eligible for work from home, hybrid, or in-office designation in accordance with AI Justice Job Classification Policy.

Salary & Benefits:

Salary commensurate with experience. Salary ranges from $76,230 - $129,600, depending on experience.

AI Justice offers a comprehensive benefits package, including excellent health, vision, dental, and life insurance coverage; 15 paid days of vacation leave; 14 paid holidays; 10 paid health days. After one year of employment, staff are entitled to paid parental leave and up to 3% matching employer contribution to 403(b) retirement plan. Vacation and health leave increases after two- and five-year anniversaries. Paid sabbatical available at five years.

How to apply :

Please submit cover letter, resume, and 3 references to View email address on ziprecruiter.com, with subject line "STAFF ATTORNEY"

Interviews: Top candidates will be invited to interview and submit references.

We are currently seeking qualified attorneys to join our team. Applicants will be considered for multiple vacancies, with final placement based on the role that best matches their experience and preferences. We are committed to ensuring that each candidate is placed in a position where they can thrive and contribute effectively to our organization's cause and success.

The positions are for an anticipated 2-year contract term, beginning on January 1, 2027, and employees are expected to commit to the entirety of the period, unless terminated earlier by contract or the employer. 

APPLICATION DEADLINE: OPEN UNTIL FILLED WITH FINAL DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION OF MATERIALS BY OCTOBER 31, 2026.