Staff attorney – Memphis, TN and Murfreesboro, TN

Advocates for Immigrant Rights is seeking fill the role of Staff Attorney in both our Memphis and Murfreesboro offices to work in our Unaccompanied Children Program.

The Staff Attorney will be part of a team focused on challenging the immigration system through direct representation in administrative and removal proceedings with USCIS and EOIR, appeals before the BIA and federal circuit appeals, with an eye towards identifying issues for litigation and advocacy efforts, primarily in service of our clients who live in the jurisdiction of the Memphis Immigration Court.

Responsibilities

  • Screen and conduct initial consultations with potential clients

  • Provide direct legal representation to client across the region, handling an active caseload before immigration agencies, including USCIS, the Memphis Immigration Court and federal courts and county courts across Tennessee

  • Communicate effectively with clients, colleagues, and community members

  • Supervise support staff, interns, externs and volunteers

  • Maintain accurate case records and assist in compiling client data

  • Participate and collaborate in regular organizational meetings to advance strategy for legal representation, outreach, media and advocacy

  • Engage externally with partner organizations to advance litigation, media outreach, and advocacy

  • Help maintain relationships with pro bono counsel, the private bar, partner organizations, and community groups

  • Prepare for and present educational programs, including Know Your Rights trainings and Continuing Legal Education seminars, in small and large group settings

  • Support special events and fundraising activities

  • Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications

  • Working knowledge of Spanish preferred

  • A J.D. degree and admission to practice law in Tennessee required

  • 1-3 years of relevant legal experience required

  • Prior experience working on behalf of immigrants strongly preferred

  • Prior experience working with children and vulnerable populations appreciated

  • Excellent legal strategy, analysis, drafting, and editing skills

  • Excellent oral communication skills, including in both legal advocacy and broader public communication

  • Excellent time management skills

  • Ability to work with Microsoft Office, Google Suite, Adobe Suite and strong computer skills

  • Ability to work independently and within a team

  • Ability to effectively prioritize tasks and meet deadlines

  • A developed race and equity lens that informs your work and guides your leadership

Salary and Benefits 

Salary for this full-time position is $65,000 to $67,000 commensurate with qualifications and experience, excellent benefits including health insurance coverage and generous paid time off as well as the opportunity to participate in a group SIMPLE IRA plan and federal loan forgiveness eligibility.

To apply, please send a cover letter explaining your interest in the position, a resume with three references (name, position, phone number and email address), and a writing sample to admin@airlegal.org.