Immigration Staff Attorney Afghan Support at Connecticut Institute For Refu

Bridgeport, Connecticut, United States -

Full Time

Start Date

Immediate

Expiry Date

02 Jul, 26

Salary

75000.0

Posted On

03 Apr, 26

Experience

2 year(s) or above

Remote Job

Yes

Telecommute

Yes

Sponsor Visa

Skills

Immigration law, Asylum law, TPS, Case management, Legal research, Client advocacy, Legal documentation, Public speaking, Trauma-informed care, Legal consultation, Case assessment, Community outreach, Legal representation, Policy analysis

Industry

Non-profit Organizations

Description

Description CIRI’s Afghan Legal Relief Project provides a unique and invaluable opportunity for a Staff Attorney to have a substantial impact on the lives of families and individuals, contribute to a national movement, and help shape immigration practices and policy in the U.S. Since September 2021, CIRI’s Refugee Services Program has resettled over 200 Afghans in Connecticut, providing financial maintenance and comprehensive case management, including employment, housing, education, health, and community navigation supports, with case management lasting up to five years. The next critical phase is assisting our new neighbors as they seek immigration relief through temporary or permanent status in the U.S. The Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants (CIRI) is the largest non-profit provider of affordable and impactful immigration legal services in the state of Connecticut. CIRI is accredited by the Department of Justice to train and employ legal representatives, increasing access to justice and the availability of competent legal services to immigrants. Each year, CIRI’s Immigration Legal Services (ILS) Program assists 2,500–3,500 individuals with adjustment of status, family reunification, DACA renewals, citizenship applications, victim-based relief (T and U visas, VAWA), asylum applications, and temporary forms of relief. Afghan evacuees/parolees are eligible for Temporary Protected Status (TPS), in addition to asylum and other relief based on individual circumstances. REPORTS TO: Chief Legal Program Officer of Immigration Legal Services LOCATION: Hybrid/Remote work schedule with travel to Bridgeport, New Haven and/or Hartford as needed. POSITION: Full-time, Temporary until 9/29/26 SALARY: $75,000 Annual POSITION SUMMARY: The Staff Attorney will be the primary legal provider for the Afghan Legal Relief Project, delivering direct immigration legal services to Afghan clients seeking humanitarian and family-based relief. This role works independently while collaborating closely with CIRI’s Refugee Services team to ensure holistic client support. The Staff Attorney may also engage with pro bono attorneys and volunteers to expand legal service capacity. ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: Provide direct immigration legal services, including legal consultations, case assessments, and representation for Afghan clients seeking relief such as asylum, TPS, and other humanitarian options. Prepare and file applications and supporting documentation for various forms of immigration relief. Represent clients in immigration interviews as appropriate, including asylum interviews and related advocacy. Manage a full caseload independently, ensuring timely and accurate case preparation and follow-up. Coordinate with CIRI’s Refugee Services team to support clients’ broader needs and ensure integrated service delivery. Collaborate with and support pro bono attorneys and volunteers, including case placement and guidance as needed. Conduct outreach, informational sessions, and presentations to educate clients and community partners about immigration options and eligibility. Maintain accurate and organized case files in compliance with CIRI policies and legal standards. Stay current on immigration laws, policies, and procedures, particularly those impacting Afghan clients, including changes related to TPS, asylum, and federal legislation. QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE: J.D. or LL.M. from an accredited law school and active bar membership in good standing in any U.S. jurisdiction. At least 2 years of immigration legal experience, with strong knowledge of asylum and TPS. Experience working with low-income immigrant populations and individuals who have experienced trauma. Ability to work independently, manage a full caseload, and prioritize competing demands. Strong communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills. Commitment to CIRI’s mission and serving refugee and immigrant communities.

Responsibilities

The Staff Attorney will serve as the primary legal provider for the Afghan Legal Relief Project, delivering direct immigration legal services such as asylum and TPS applications. They will also collaborate with the Refugee Services team to ensure holistic support and engage with pro bono volunteers to expand service capacity.