SIJS Attorney

About the Role:

The SIJS Attorney at Sanabria & Associates PLLC plays a critical role in advocating for unaccompanied immigrant children seeking Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS). This position involves providing expert legal counsel, preparing and filing petitions, and representing clients in immigration court and related proceedings. The attorney will work closely with vulnerable youth and their families to navigate complex immigration laws and ensure their protection under SIJS provisions. Success in this role directly impacts the lives of children by securing lawful status and access to essential services. The attorney will also collaborate with social workers, government agencies, and community organizations to support holistic client outcomes.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
• Admission to the state bar and in good standing.
• At least 2 years of experience practicing immigration law, with direct experience handling SIJS cases preferred.
• Strong knowledge of immigration law, particularly related to Special Immigrant Juvenile Status and removal defense.
• Bilingual proficiency in Spanish.
• Excellent written and oral advocacy skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working with unaccompanied immigrant children or vulnerable populations.
• Familiarity with child welfare systems and family court proceedings.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct comprehensive legal assessments to determine eligibility for SIJS and related immigration benefits.
• Prepare and file SIJS petitions, supporting documentation, and related immigration applications with USCIS and immigration courts.
• Represent clients in immigration court hearings, including bond hearings, removal proceedings, and SIJS adjudications.
• Advise and counsel clients and their families on immigration options, rights, and responsibilities throughout the legal process.
• Collaborate with social service providers, child welfare agencies, and community organizations to gather necessary evidence and support client cases.
• Maintain detailed case files and ensure compliance with all legal and ethical standards.
• Stay current with changes in immigration law, policies, and procedures affecting SIJS and immigrant youth.

Skills:

The SIJS Attorney will utilize their legal research and writing skills daily to prepare persuasive petitions and legal briefs that effectively advocate for clients' immigration relief. Strong interpersonal and communication skills are essential for building trust with vulnerable youth and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. Analytical skills are applied to assess complex legal and factual issues to develop strategic case plans. Fluency in a second language, such as Spanish, enhances communication with clients and community partners, improving case outcomes. Additionally, organizational skills are critical for managing multiple cases, meeting deadlines, and maintaining meticulous records in a fast-paced legal environment.