Staff Attorney

About CWS

Imagine waking up every morning with the chance to change someone's life. Imagine knowing your efforts will benefit both your career and our neighbors around the world. At CWS, our team knows they are making a difference every day. Whether you're in our U.S.-based offices supporting refugees, asylees or unaccompanied children ... implementing hygiene initiatives in Cambodia or rebuilding projects in Central America ... or even connecting remotely from your home on fundraising campaigns, grant reports, or critical communications - you have the opportunity to work towards a world where everyone has food, a voice and a safe place to call home. 

Purpose

To provide legal representation to clients in accordance with the terms of CWS contracts with the funding sources. This position is responsible for case file reviews, court representation and service provision. This position has a hybrid work arrangement (two days a week in the office/three days a week working remotely).

Responsibilities

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

• Conduct intake interviews with clients; prepare clients for court appearances and/or USCIS interviews.
• Represent CWS clients as primary attorney of record at USCIS and EOIR, including but not limited to: Immigration Interviews, Asylum Hearings; Master/Individual Calendar Hearings; and submission of briefs to the Board of Immigration Appeals.
• Engage with USCIS and other immigration agencies on behalf of clients and/or in support of clients’ immigration cases.
• Conduct legal research and draft supplemental statements, rebuttals to Notices of Intent to Deny and Requests for Evidence; prepare and file immigration applications and motions; prepare other ancillary immigration papers, including Freedom of Information Act requests.
• Manage caseload and maintain client files in good order and in designated database, including photocopying applications, letters, supporting documentation, and follow-ups. Conduct periodic case reviews.
• Represent CWS at community meetings and participate in education and outreach activities. 
• Support the development of grant applications and reports, and new programs.
• Promote legal service program and program vision through various media including newspaper, radio and television. 
• Prepare packages and provide primary representation before USCIS or EOIR to assist in the fee-for-service program for the office.
• Provide support for paralegals, including but not limited to training, reviewing packages, and preparing program documentations as necessary.
• Supervise designated paralegal(s) when needed.
• Perform other related duties and special projects, as requested.

Qualifications

Education: JD degree with specialization in Immigration law. Must be licensed to practice law in any jurisdiction (state Bar preferred). Experience with immigration representation and other areas of Immigration law, including asylum representation and working with vulnerable populations. 

 

Experience: A minimum of 2 - 4 years' experience with immigration representation and removal proceedings required along with other areas of Immigration Law, including asylum representation.

 

Skills:

• Demonstrated cultural competency in fast-paced work environment.
• Fluency in written and oral English and a second language, Spanish language fluency preferred.
• Experience and comfort with public speaking.
• Self-motivated, detail oriented, well-organized, and the ability to prioritize assignments and workload.
• Ability to communicate effectively and build mutually respectful relationships with co-workers, clients, and the public.
• Familiarity with software applications in a Windows and cloud-based environment, including Microsoft Office and immigration case management applications.

Special Requirements

The job will require reference checks, standard criminal background checks, and motor vehicle background checks. 

Benefits

CWS offers a competitive benefits package that includes:     - 403 (b) Retirement Plan                                                - Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance                                                   - Generous Paid Time Off (18 Paid Days Off; 24 Days after 2 Years)   - 14 Official Holidays   - 12 Sick Days Off (Accrued monthly)                                       - Life Insurance and AD&D                                              - Long Term and Short-Term Disability                                                   - Employee Assistance Program (EAP)                                                  - Health Savings Account                                                - Flexible Spending Accounts