ECBA
VOLUNTEER LAWYERS PROJECT (VLP)
IMMIGRATION STAFF ATTORNEYS for REMOVAL DEFENSE
We are seeking
to fill full-time positions based in the Western New York State for the
Immigration Program of the Erie County Bar Association Volunteer Lawyers
Project (VLP).
We are looking
for three (3) Staff Attorneys for our Batavia, NY office to join our ten (10) attorneys
handling work under the New York Immigrant Family Unity Project (NYIFUP)
contract at the Buffalo Federal Detention Facility in Batavia, and some WNY
county jails which hold immigrant women. This is a public defender model program where
we represent all low income detained people that are facing deportation and are
not otherwise represented.
The ideal
candidates will be admitted to practice law, have at least one year experience
in litigation, preferably in immigration removal proceedings, and want a career
in litigation defending low-income immigrants detained at the Batavia Federal
Detention Facility who are subject to removal for a variety of reasons
including criminal convictions, unlawful entry and visa overstays. The ability
to speak both Spanish and English fluently
is very highly preferred. In the alternative, fluency in French is also very desirable.
Those without previous experience, but
possessing the desire and language skills are encouraged to apply. If the potential candidate possesses two or
more years of immigration litigation experience but does not speak a language
other than English, s/he is also encouraged to apply.
Also required for
all positions are strong organizational skills to track and report required
data about the work in a timely and accurate manner; an ability to work
cooperatively with fellow staff and supervisors; the means and willingness to
travel between the Buffalo office and the Batavia office, and occasionally to different
locations in the eight counties of Western New York, as needed (a driver's
license is required); strong oral and written advocacy skills; a willingness to
work independently while also taking direction and operating as part of a team;
the organizational ability required to juggle many cases efficiently; and the
flexibility to handle other tasks which the attorney may be called upon to
handle at VLP, such as community outreach and education.
Please send a
resume, a cover letter clearly explaining your interest and qualifications.
Include contact information for 3 references and send your materials to: Ramon
Irizarry, Supervising Attorney, ECBA Volunteer Lawyers Project, Inc. at ririzarry@ecbavlp.com
There is an
immediate need. Please apply ASAP.
Applications will be reviewed as received.
For information
on VLP, see www.ecbavlp.com
VLP is an equal
opportunity employer. Salary is based on experience. VLP is a non-profit agency
with excellent fringe benefits including fully paid health insurance, free parking,
long term disability insurance, life insurance, and generous leave time. The
work atmosphere is congenial, respectful and flexible. |