Full-Time Immigration Associate Attorney

Stouffer Law

Full-Time Immigration Associate Attorney

Berkeley, CA
Full Time
Paid
  • Responsibilities

    Immigration Associate Attorney Are you a passionate advocate-turned-lawyer who wants to be part of a thriving tight-knit team of like-minded and like-hearted people? Do you want the freedom to work remotely, but still go to court and USCIS as needed? Maybe you've worked at a non-profit, as a solo, at a big office, and/or tried it all, realizing now that a flexible and supportive work environment is your priority so you can channel all your energy into helping clients within a diverse caseload. Are you a communicative advocate who loves using your skills and training in collaboration with your amazing coworkers to provide not just good, but excellent service to clients in such a way they feel deeply supported? We are a Berkeley-based immigration law firm with a close-knit, supportive team that specializes in family-based immigration, naturalization, acquired/derived citizenship, consular processing, removal defense, asylum, U visas, waivers, and Federal Court litigation. Our team thrives on mutual trust, collaboration, and support. We encourage open feedback and value a balance between personal accountability and teamwork. Every team member, from assistants to attorneys, plays a vital role, and we deeply appreciate each person’s contributions. Our team is made up of positive, solution-oriented humans who bring creativity and passion to the table. We continuously seek out ways to refine our systems and processes to be the best advocates for our clients. We recognize the emotional impact that comes with working with clients who have experienced trauma or are navigating difficult challenges. To help manage this, we frequently lighten the mood with humor where appropriate and support each other with self-care. We also organize regular trauma-informed training sessions with licensed professionals to ensure we are caring for ourselves and each other. Our practice is built on solid, proven systems, and we focus on clear goals. We believe in working efficiently so that everyone can enjoy a healthy work-life balance. Attorneys on our team have the flexibility to set their own schedules within certain guidelines, as long as they meet established goals. Who We’re Looking For: We are seeking a bilingual licensed associate attorney fluent in both written and spoken Spanish. The ideal candidate is self-motivated, organized, and capable of managing their caseload with precision. They enjoy engaging with both clients and colleagues, taking the time to understand each client as a whole person, ensuring they feel supported and heard. Our associate understands that this client partnership is essential in helping them navigate the complex and ever-changing immigration legal system. They take the initiative to develop a strategic plan at the outset of each case and continuously stay informed of any legal or policy changes to adjust the strategy as necessary. Our associate communicates these strategies clearly to both clients and the legal team, ensuring everyone is aligned throughout what can often be a lengthy process. Strong oral and written communication skills are essential for this role. Our associate understands how to tailor their communication to the specific audience, whether it’s USCIS, EOIR judges, clients, or colleagues. They are confident in conducting research and working independently but are also comfortable seeking input or collaborating when faced with complex or unfamiliar issues to ensure the best outcomes for our clients. Our licensed associate values teamwork and knows how to delegate effectively, fostering a collaborative approach to case management. Salary: We are committed to finding the right person with the right number of hours per week for that person's desired level of life-work balance. Salary will accordingly be calculated based on the time commitment and level of experience. Responsibilities: • Represent clients in Immigration Court, USCIS, and DOS to ensure alignment between client's interests, legal team strategy, and office objectives. • Offer clear and concise advice to clients regarding their options under current laws and procedures. • Supervise the drafting of forms and gathering of evidence, providing feedback to improve work quality and streamline processes. • Collaborate professionally with attorneys within the office and external colleagues. • Maintain organized case notes and information using the office's case management software. • Manage an independent caseload and provide case support to the lead attorney and colleagues. • Cultivate a collaborative team culture through training and team-building activities. • Diligently track casework, meet hourly goals, and coordinate with team members on client accounts. • Engage in marketing and community relations activities to support the office's mission. • Develop and improve office systems, policies, and procedures for enhanced efficiency. • Analyze statistical data to enhance service quality and time management for client matters. Qualifications: • The ideal candidate must have a minimum of 4 years of experience practicing law in immigration, open to exceptional applicants with a combined 4+ years in immigration and other legal areas. • Fluency in spoken and written Spanish is a mandatory requirement for this role. • Essential skills include strong verbal and written communication abilities. • Deep knowledge of immigration law is necessary, with the capability to assist clients in expressing their unique experiences within legal frameworks. • Crucial qualities include empathy, warmth, and a commitment to personal and professional growth. • Important attributes are excellent organizational skills, leadership capabilities, and effective task delegation. • Valued skills encompass problem-solving, creativity, and the ability to devise innovative strategies for better client service and team efficiency. • The candidate should be adept at multitasking, prioritizing tasks, and consistently meeting deadlines. • Necessary qualities include adaptability, resilience, and the ability to navigate the changing landscape of immigration laws and procedures. • Attention to detail, including grammar, spelling, and formatting, is a must. • Expected proficiency in using case management software, Microsoft Word, Adobe, and other standard office programs. • A solid grasp of legal research techniques and databases is vital for success in this position. Compensation: $90,000 - $130,000 DOE

    • Represent clients in Immigration Court, USCIS, and DOS to ensure alignment between client's interests, legal team strategy, and office objectives. • Offer clear and concise advice to clients regarding their options under current laws and procedures. • Supervise the drafting of forms and gathering of evidence, providing feedback to improve work quality and streamline processes. • Collaborate professionally with attorneys within the office and external colleagues. • Maintain organized case notes and information using the office's case management software. • Manage an independent caseload and provide case support to the lead attorney and colleagues. • Cultivate a collaborative team culture through training and team-building activities. • Diligently track casework, meet hourly goals, and coordinate with team members on client accounts. • Engage in marketing and community relations activities to support the office's mission. • Develop and improve office systems, policies, and procedures for enhanced efficiency. • Analyze statistical data to enhance service quality and time management for client matters.