What are the responsibilities and job description for the Removal Defense Attorney, Immigration Legal Services position at CCSCC?
POSITION SUMMARY:
Catholic Charities of Santa Clara County (CCSCC) seeks a passionate and dedicated Removal Defense Attorney to provide direct legal representation to individuals facing deportation. The attorney will advocate for clients in immigration court, USCIS proceedings, and administrative appeals while working collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team to support immigrants at risk of detention or deportation.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Legal Representation & Advocacy
- Represent noncitizens in removal proceedings before the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR), including asylum seekers, survivors of crime, and individuals with special relief options (e.g., Cancellation of Removal, Adjustment of Status, Withholding of Removal, and CAT claims).
- Prepare and file motions, briefs, and applications before immigration courts, the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA), and federal courts if necessary.
- Conduct credible fear and reasonable fear interviews and prepare clients for asylum or defensive applications.
- Advocate for detained clients and coordinate bond hearings to secure release from ICE detention.
- Represent clients in applications for legal status, work permits, and other immigration benefits before USCIS and ICE.
Client Support & Case Management
- Conduct legal screenings and consultations to assess eligibility for relief and provide clear legal advice.
- Work closely with DOJ-accredited representatives, paralegals, and caseworkers to ensure comprehensive support.
- Maintain up-to-date case files and records in compliance with funding and reporting requirements.
Community Outreach & Training
- Lead Know Your Rights (KYR) presentations for community members at risk of deportation.
- Participate in legal clinics and screening events organized by CCSCC and partner organizations.
- Train and supervise legal staff, volunteers, and pro bono attorneys on removal defense strategies.
QUALIFICATIONS:
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
- Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school.
- Active bar membership (California preferred, but candidates from other jurisdictions will be considered).
- Minimum 2–5 years of experience in immigration law, with a focus on removal defense.
- Experience working with asylum seekers, survivors of violence, and detained individuals is a plus.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
- Strong litigation experience, including court appearances and legal brief writing.
- Fluency in Spanish or another commonly spoken language in immigrant communities is highly preferred.
- Ability to work independently while also collaborating with a team in a fast-paced legal services environment.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
- Ability to use a computer.
- Ability to lift up to 25 lbs.
- Ability to travel/drive to agency sites and other locations within Santa Clara County.
OTHER QUALIFICATIONS:
- Criminal background check via livescan fingerprint.
- Must have TB test performed and submit results.
- Automobile, valid driver’s license and auto insurance per agency policy; or have access to reliable transportation.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
- Must be able to travel/drive within Santa Clara County.
HOURS AND OTHER CONDITIONS:
- Standard office hours are Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- This is a full-time, exempt position. Must be able to work some evenings and weekends.
This position description intends to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. It is not intended to include all duties and responsibilities. The order in which duties and responsibilities are listed is not significant. Because of a need to remain responsive to the needs of our clients and our Agency’s operations, responsibilities may be modified at any time.
Catholic Charities is a non-profit, non-discriminatory service organization and employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation or disability. Persons receiving services in our programs are entitled to freedom from harassment and retaliation and reasonable accommodation for qualified disabilities.
