Temporary Immigration Staff Attorney, MD

PURPOSE STATEMENT

To provide comprehensive legal representation to immigrants involving clients that are survivors of human trafficking and domestic violence, asylum-seekers, victims of crimes, families, and minors, in Maryland.

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ORGANIZATIONAL PROFILE

Ayuda is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing direct legal, social and language access services, education, and outreach to low-income immigrants in the Washington, DC metropolitan area. Since 1973, Ayuda has provided critical services on a wide range of issues, in the process acquiring nationally recognized expertise in several fields including immigration law, language access, domestic violence and human trafficking. Ayuda has office locations in Washington, DC, Silver Spring, MD and Fairfax, VA.

WHY DO YOU WANT THIS JOB?

Because, just like everyone at Ayuda, you believe:

• In seeing communities where all immigrants succeed and thrive in the United States.
• In the overall success of our organization and all our programs.
• That families should be healthy and safe from harm.
• That all people should have access to professional, honest, and ethical services, regardless of ability to pay or status in this country.
• That diversity and equality make this country better.

WHAT WILL THIS JOB ENTAIL?

• This position is based in our Silver Spring, MD office and will require travel to local state, federal, and immigration courts.
• As Temporary Immigration Staff Attorney, you will represent low-income immigrants, including victims of crime and children.
• Conduct intakes and represent victims of crime in immigration matters, including SIJS, asylum, VAWA petitions, U and T Visa applications, DACA and removal proceedings;
• Represent clients in immigration matters before USCIS, ICE, DOS and EOIR, as well as Maryland Circuit Courts to obtain SIJS predicate orders;
• Represent clients in federal courts in APA and/or mandamus actions;
• Provide victim witness orientation and accompaniment when appropriate;
• Represent Ayuda at local coalition meetings and participate in local and national advocacy initiatives;
• Stay current on relevant laws and policies by attending trainings and conferences and reviewing new laws and regulations;
• Train area service providers and government agencies, including law enforcement;
• Conduct outreach presentations to potential clients;
• Collaborate with Ayuda’s Social Services staff to ensure provision of holistic services;
• Assist with recruitment, training, and supervision of legal interns, volunteers, paralegals and legal assistants;
• Contribute to Ayuda’s pro bono program through mentoring at clinics and mentoring pro bono pipeline cases.
• Assist with preparation of grant applications and reports; and
• Perform other duties as assigned.