Managing Attorney, Immigration Law

Managing Attorney, Immigration Law Location: San Francisco, California Schedule: Full time, primarily in person, with one midweek day working from home Reports to: Firm Owner MW Talent has partnered with an established immigration law firm seeking a Managing Attorney to oversee client representation, case management, and daily office operations. This attorney will supervise approximately 10 to 15 legal support and administrative staff while maintaining direct responsibility for immigration matters and court appearances. The owner conducts initial consultations with prospective clients. After engagement, the Managing Attorney takes over case strategy, preparation, client communication, filings, hearings, and follow-up through resolution. Responsibilities Client Representation and Case Management • Manage existing and newly retained immigration matters from handoff through resolution. • Review client histories, assess eligibility and risks, and develop legal strategies. • Handle removal defense, asylum, family-based petitions, adjustment of status, naturalization, waivers, and related matters within the assigned caseload. • Represent clients in immigration court, including master calendar hearings, individual hearings, and other proceedings as required. • Prepare clients and witnesses for hearings and agency interviews. • Draft, review, and finalize applications, petitions, declarations, motions, briefs, and supporting evidence. • Review staff-prepared filings for accuracy, completeness, and legal sufficiency. • Respond to government notices, requests for evidence, and other case developments. • Maintain regular client communication and explain case status, options, and next steps. • Oversee document collection, outstanding requests, filing deadlines, and ongoing case follow-up. • Maintain complete case records and accurate information in the firm's case management system. Team Leadership and Office Operations • Supervise approximately 10 to 15 legal support and administrative staff. • Assign work, establish priorities, balance workloads, and monitor completion. • Train staff, review work quality, provide feedback, and address performance concerns. • Lead regular team meetings and establish clear expectations for client service and deadlines. • Oversee daily workflows and resolve delays in case preparation and communication. • Develop and improve procedures for client handoffs, document collection, file review, and submission. • Coordinate with office management staff to support daily operations. • Keep the owner informed of case progress, staffing needs, significant legal issues, and operational concerns. • Maintain confidentiality, professional standards, and appropriate boundaries for non-attorney staff. Qualifications • Juris Doctor and required admission to the State Bar of California. Must be an active member in good standing. • Substantial immigration law experience, with seven or more years preferred. • Demonstrated experience independently handling immigration court proceedings. • Strong knowledge of removal defense, asylum, and family-based immigration. • Proven staff management experience, with three or more years of supervision preferred. • Ability to manage client matters while leading a team and reviewing its work. • Strong legal research, writing, judgment, and client counseling skills. • Strong organization and follow-through across multiple cases and deadlines. • Proficiency with case management software, electronic filing, and document systems. • Availability to work primarily on site in San Francisco and travel for required court appearances and agency appointments. • Candidates outside California must already hold an active California law license in good standing and be willing to relocate to the San Francisco area. • Arabic and Spanish language proficiency are especially valued. Compensation and Benefits • Annual base salary of $180,000 to $220,000, based on relevant legal experience and management responsibilities. • Performance-based bonus opportunity. • Employer-paid health insurance coverage for the employee. • Retirement plan with a 3% employer match. • Paid time off in accordance with the firm's PTO policy. • Employer-paid State Bar dues. • Employer-paid malpractice coverage. • One midweek day working from home, coordinated around court appearances and client obligations.