Detained Immigration Removal Defense Attorney

Rivas & Associates; Tulsa (OK); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Rivas & Associates seeks a Detained Removal Defense Attorney to represent clients in immigration detention through bond hearings, master calendars, merits hearings, and appeals. The position requires courtroom readiness, ability to work under tight deadlines, and independent research.

You will collaborate with a mission-driven team, mentor paralegals, and travel to detention facilities and immigration courts as needed. Spanish language ability is strongly preferred.

Qualifications

• JD from an accredited law school.
• Active U.S. bar license in good standing.
• Experience in immigration law, especially detained removal defense.
• Courtroom or litigation experience with evidence and witness questioning.
• Ability to perform under pressure with fast-moving deadlines.
• Strong writing and research skills; independent work with escalation when needed.
• Strong communication and leadership skills; mentor junior staff.
• Willingness to travel to detention facilities and immigration courts.
• Bilingual Spanish is strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of detained removal defense before the Immigration Court, in person or by video.
• Prepare for and argue bond hearings with evidence of equities and ties.
• Appear at master calendar and merits hearings; present testimony and cross-examine witnesses.
• Represent clients seeking relief including asylum, CAT, cancellation, and adjustment of status.
• Handle credible fear reviews and motions to reopen or terminate.
• Draft briefs, motions, declarations, and other filings on short timelines.
• Visit clients at detention facilities and explain process by phone or Zoom.
• Coordinate with ICE/DHS and other departments on overlapping cases.
• Provide guidance to paralegals and junior team members; train when needed.

Skills

Immigration law

Litigation

Spanish

Attention to detail

Legal research

Written/oral advocacy

Team leadership

Education

Juris Doctor (JD)

Job description

Rivas & Associates seeks a Detained Removal Defense Attorney to represent clients in immigration detention through bond hearings, master calendars, merits hearings, and appeals. The position requires courtroom readiness, ability to work under tight deadlines, and independent research.

You will collaborate with a mission-driven team, mentor paralegals, and travel to detention facilities and immigration courts as needed. Spanish language ability is strongly preferred.