ECBA
VOLUNTEER LAWYERS PROJECT (VLP) IMMIGRATION STAFF ATTORNEYS FOR
REMOVAL DEFENSE
We
are seeking to fill full-time positions based in Western New York State for the
Immigration Program of the Erie County Bar Association Volunteer Lawyers
Project (VLP).
We
are looking for two (2) Staff Attorneys for our Batavia, NY office to join our team
of 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 Buffalo
Federal Detention Facility in Batavia 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 and access to a reliable vehicle are 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.
TO APPLY: Please send a resume, a cover letter
clearly explaining your interest and qualifications. Include contact
information for 3 references and send your materials to: Brenda Cisneros,
Supervising Attorney, ECBA Volunteer Lawyers Project, Inc. at bcisneros@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 depends upon
experience. Excellent benefits including fully paid health insurance, a
cafeteria plan for dependent care and transportation costs, long term
disability insurance, life insurance, 403b plan, Simple Employee Pension Plan,
and generous leave time. Employee paid dental insurance is also available. The
work atmosphere is congenial, respectful and flexible. |