Description

 The Litigation Associate will represent clients in immigration court, conduct legal research, prepare filings and briefs, coordinate with clients, and handle court appearances and hearings. This role involves substantial in-office presence and travel and demands effective client representation under time-sensitive conditions. The associate will work closely with partners and senior attorneys on case strategy, fact-finding, and motions practice.

Requirements

Responsibilities:
Appear in immigration court, asylum interviews, ICE check-ins, master calendar hearings, individual hearings, bond hearings, and related proceedings.
Draft pleadings, motions, briefs, responses, appeals, and other court documents.
Conduct legal research regarding immigration law, regulations, and case law; stay current on relevant legal developments.
Collect and analyze evidence, including affidavits, witness statements, medical records, and country condition reports.
Counsel clients, prepare them for hearings and interviews, and coordinate translation or interpreter services as needed.
Coordinate with partners and supervising attorneys on case strategy, timelines, and deadlines.
Travel and lodging as required for early morning court appearances outside of the Philadelphia metro area.
Maintain accurate case files, billing and time entries, and client communication logs.

Additional Duties for Immigration Law Firms:
Assist in organizing and maintaining client files, ensuring all documents are properly filed and easily accessible.
Participate in client intake and evidence collection for immigration cases.
Prepare clients for court hearings, asylum interviews, or ICE appointments.
Monitor immigration policy and case law developments to support firm compliance.
Assist with mentoring or training new associates or legal assistants when assigned.

Education and Experience:
Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school; licensed to practice law in the United States.
Prior litigation or immigration court experience preferred.
Strong legal writing and analytical skills; ability to prepare motions and briefs.
Proficiency in legal research software, Microsoft Word, and Excel.

Qualifications:
Excellent client communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to manage multiple cases and deadlines effectively.
Strong attention to detail, organization, and confidentiality.
Ability to work independently and in collaboration with supervising attorneys.
Flexibility to handle early morning or late-day travel for court appearances.
Language skills preferred but not required (Spanish, Portuguese, Arabic, etc.).

Work Conditions & Requirements:
Full-time, in-office role. Regular attendance at the Philadelphia office and physical presence for hearings are required.
Travel required for hearings, interviews, or court dates outside Philadelphia metro area, including overnight stays.
Court schedules may change frequently; flexibility and adaptability are essential.
Use of firm travel policy for reimbursement of travel, lodging, and meals when away from home city.

Performance Expectations:
Reliable appearance at all court hearings and interviews.
Timely submission of filings, motions, and briefs.
Consistent and professional communication with clients and colleagues.
Adherence to firm policies regarding attendance, travel, billing, and confidentiality.

Reports To: Managing Attorney 
Salary Range: Commensurate with experience