Federal Litigation & Appellate Attorney (Hiring Immediately)

PLSNY Immigration Unit attorneys represent incarcerated immigrants in New York State prisons and federal detention centers who are facing deportation. This role focuses on federal litigation and appellate advocacy, including challenging the lawfulness of immigration detention through habeas corpus petitions and related federal actions.

The attorney in this role will play a critical part in addressing prolonged and unlawful detention and advancing the rights of noncitizen clients impacted by the intersection of the criminal and immigration legal systems.

Key Responsibilities

Litigate immigration-related habeas corpus petitions in federal district courts

Challenge the legal basis of client detention, including prolonged or indefinite detention

Advocate against unconstitutional or impermissible conditions of confinement

Draft and argue motions, briefs, and appellate submissions in federal courts

Appear before federal judges and engage in high‑stakes litigation proceedings

Immigration Representation

Represent incarcerated noncitizen clients in removal proceedings and related matters

Develop legal strategies to mitigate immigration consequences of criminal convictions

Conduct legal research and analysis on complex “crimmigration” issues

Provide clear, strategic advice to clients regarding legal options and risks

Client Advocacy & Communication

Maintain respectful, trauma‑informed, and effective communication with clients

Provide timely updates and ensure clients understand the status of their cases

Work with detained individuals in correctional and detention settings

Work collaboratively with Immigration Unit attorneys and interdisciplinary staff

Contribute to case strategy discussions and litigation planning

Support broader advocacy efforts aligned with PLSNY’s mission

Travel as needed to courts, detention facilities, or partner locations

Qualifications

J.D. from an accredited law school

Admission to the New York State Bar (or another state bar) in good standing

Minimum of 3 years’ experience in immigration removal defense and/or federal litigation preferred

Experience appearing before federal courts or in similarly high‑pressure advocacy settings

Strong legal research, writing, and analytical skills

Ability to manage multiple cases and deadlines effectively

Ability to work respectfully and non‑judgmentally with diverse client populations

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with federal district court litigation in immigration matters

Background in “crimmigration” law

Fluency in Spanish or other languages

Demonstrated commitment to immigrant rights, civil rights, and social justice

Experience working with indigent or detained populations

This position involves a combination of legal office work, federal court appearances, and interaction with clients in correctional and detention settings. Travel may be required.

#J-18808-Ljbffr