Senior Attorney, Children's Program

National Legal Aid & Defender Association; Washington (District of Columbia); Hybrid; USD 67,000 - 77,000; Full time

Job summary

A forward-thinking organization seeks a dedicated Senior Attorney for its Children's Program, focusing on legal assistance for detained migrant children. This role offers the opportunity to provide high-quality legal services, mentor pro bono attorneys, and supervise a team while promoting equity and inclusion. The ideal candidate will thrive in a collaborative, hybrid work environment that values professional growth and innovation. Join a mission-driven team committed to making a difference in the lives of vulnerable children while enjoying a comprehensive benefits package and flexible work hours.

Benefits

Gym Access

Flexible Hours

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Life Insurance

Disability Insurance

Paid Time Off

Parental Leave

403(b) Matching

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in immigration law, especially with child clients.
• Strong commitment to equity and inclusion with supervision experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload in immigration courts and provide legal services to unaccompanied children.
• Mentor pro bono attorneys and supervise legal staff.

Skills

Immigration Law

Cultural Competence

Mentorship

Fluency in Spanish

Supervision

Community Engagement

Education

Juris Doctor (JD)

Job description

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Description

Position Description:

The Amica Center for Immigrant Rights (formerly CAIR Coalition) is the only non-profit in the Washington, D.C. area focused exclusively on legal assistance for detained adult and child immigrants.

The Children's Program provides legal orientation and screening for detained migrant children in the Washington, DC, Maryland, and Virginia regions, along with free legal services for children released from custody.

Work Environment

Our environment is collaborative, trauma-informed, and committed to professional growth. We value interconnectivity, innovation, and staff support, with supervisors dedicated to mentorship and work-life balance.

Position Summary

The Senior Attorney will:

1. Ensure clients receive high-quality, culturally competent legal services;
2. Coordinate detention visits for legal intakes and KYR presentations;
3. Provide legal services to unaccompanied children;
4. Mentor pro bono attorneys;
5. Supervise staff attorneys, interns, and paralegals;
6. Promote equity and inclusion.

Responsibilities

Representation

• Manage a caseload including cases in immigration courts, USCIS, and state courts, such as asylum, U visa, T visa, and others;
• Conduct legal screenings and follow-ups;
• Stay updated on legal developments and train staff;
• Supervise legal staff and mentor pro bono attorneys;
• Handle administrative case tasks and social services referrals.

Organizational Services

• Assist with program planning and compliance;
• Conduct legal intakes and KYR presentations at detention centers;
• Manage referrals, data entry, and internal workflows;
• Participate in community and stakeholder meetings;
• Contribute to organizational growth strategies.

Qualifications

• JD, 3+ years in immigration law (SIJS a plus);
• Experience with child clients preferred;
• Supervision experience is a plus;
• Fluent in written and spoken Spanish;
• Licensed or eligible to waive into Maryland or Virginia bar;
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel;
• Commitment to equity and inclusion;
• Clear background checks;
• Ability to work in a hybrid environment.

Role Details

• Full-time, exempt;
• Reports to: Managing Attorney or Program Director;
• Salary: $67,800–$76,850, with higher for more experience;
• Location: Washington, D.C. or Baltimore, MD, with travel;
• Work environment: Hybrid, with in-person requirements;
• Vaccination: Must be fully vaccinated and boosted.

Benefits

• Gym access, flexible hours, pre-tax benefits, health/dental/vision insurance, life and disability insurance, HSA, 403(b) matching, paid time off, and parental leave.

Application Process

Submit your resume, cover letter, and a writing sample. For accommodations, contact [e-mail].