Senior Paralegal, Defensive

Location: Fairfax or Charlottesville, VA; Silver Spring, MD; Newark or Haddonfield, NJ; IL, NY. Full-time, hybrid for the first 90 days with potential full-remote afterward (occasional in-office days a few times per year). Reports to the Director of Legal Operations in the Defensive department. FLSA status: Non-Exempt. Employees must reside within a commutable distance (typically 75 miles) of their assigned VA, MD, or NJ office; remote work is available for candidates based in IL or NY.

About the role

Murray Osorio PLLC is a fast-growing immigration law firm dedicated to making a positive impact on people’s lives. The firm represents clients and companies in courts, offices, and consular posts worldwide, specializing in removal defense, humanitarian applications, family-based immigration, criminal immigration, employment-based immigration, naturalization, and appellate and federal litigation. The Senior Paralegal, Defensive position is part of one of four legal teams. The ideal candidate will expand their knowledge of Removal Defense and serve as the first point of contact with clients in the preparation of their case before any Immigration Court across the country, working with various immigration agencies and third-party professionals. This role offers exposure to complex cases before the Immigration Court in a collaborative, supportive, and energetic workplace.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the preparation of several forms of relief (such as I-589s, 42A/B’s, I-601, I-485s, etc.) before the immigration court.
• Collect supporting evidence and conduct country conditions research to support the client’s case.
• Complete affidavits with clients and any witnesses.
• Assist in the preparation of simple and/or complex motions.
• Assist with the preparation of the exhibits list along with the exhibit packet for individual hearings.
• Responsible for e-filing through ECAS for allowed cases.
• Interpret cases as needed, such as the client’s individual hearing preparation.
• Maintain and update the case-management database.
• Maintain direct client contact (phone calls/emails).
• Schedule appointments for hearings, manage the calendar, and set deadlines.
• Work with the Legal Assistant Team to ensure filing arrives at the proper location.
• Develop effective working relationships and communicate with attorneys, staff, and clients.

Requirements

• Must be fluent in Spanish (reading, writing, speaking).
• High School Diploma/GED.
• Minimum of 2 years of work experience in immigration law.
• Knowledge of Immigration Court Procedures.
• Able to handle a high volume of work independently and in teams.
• Able to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong communication skills.
• Detail-oriented and highly organized.
• Enthusiasm to learn and take on new challenges.
• Excellent customer service skills.
• Proficiency with the Microsoft Office Suite.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience using Docketwise, Salesforce, Filevine, SharePoint, and Zoom.
• Working knowledge of Adobe Pro.
• Bachelor's/associate degree with paralegal studies (ABA approved).

Benefits

• Commitment to professional growth and continuous learning.
• Competitive compensation and benefits package.
• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance.
• 401(k) with company match.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Paid Parental Leave (available after one year of service).
• On-site and nearby parking options for employee convenience.

This role provides the opportunity to grow your administrative and legal career in a collaborative, supportive, and dynamic environment. You’ll gain exposure to a variety of immigration law cases while contributing to the efficiency and success of the operations team.