Las Americas is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in El Paso, Texas providing free and low-cost legal services to immigrants and refugees in West Texas and New Mexico. They have served over 40,000 people from over 77 countries since 1987.

Position:
The Detained Deportation Defense Program Staff Attorney will lead the Las Americas Detained Team working to both prepare and represent asylum seekers before immigration court. The Staff Attorney will supervise a legal assistant, paralegals, and interns, and work in close collaboration with other attorneys, and accredited representatives under the direct supervision of the Director of Legal Services.

Responsibilities:

• Provide legal representation in immigration cases, including both affirmative applications and representation of clients in removal proceedings, as well as potential appellate work before the Board of Immigration Appeals.
• Sign and file petitions for immigration relief and represent clients in immigration court in various cases, including but not limited to Asylum, Cancellation of Removal, U-Visa, T-Visa, VAWA, and DACA.
• Conduct legal consultations at two regional detention facilities. 
• Support the Las Americas legal team, including DOJ accredited representatives and other assigned staff through regular engagement, case assistance, and mentorship under the supervision of the Director of Legal Services.
• Supervise and mentor pro-bono attorneys assisting with requests for evidence, briefs, appellate work, and other tasks. 
• Oversee and provide legal orientation, counseling, and education regarding a range of immigration issues and other legal problems faced by members of the low-income immigrant communities that Las Americas serves.
• Collaborate with legal staff in creating and analyzing legal strategies; personalizing case interventions/actions; and contributing to the best practices of immigration law in the 5th and 10th circuit.
• Develop materials to train and aid staff, pro-bono attorneys, clients, and pro se respondents as they endeavor to navigate the complex immigration system.

Qualifications:

• Juris Doctorate degree with membership in good standing in the bar of any state and/or the District of Columbia.
• Bilingual, English and Spanish
• Highly motivated, efficient, able to work well under pressure, and able to work independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent written, analytical, oral, organizational, and time management skills.
• Must maintain professional demeanor and excellent work ethics at all times.
• Demonstrated passion for social justice for immigrants.
• Proficiency with computers, common office equipment, Microsoft Office, and Google Workspace.

How to Apply:

Send resume, cover letter, and references to jobsinfo@las-americas.org by Wednesday, September 15, 2021.