Staff Attorney (Special Immigrant Juvenile Status)

About the role

Project Rousseau is a nonprofit organization that empowers young people in communities with the greatest need to excel in higher education. Many of the young people we serve are homeless and/or asylum seekers. Project Rousseau works at the forefront of the humanitarian migrant crisis in New York City. Through Project Rousseau’s Immigration Legal Services, we help young people navigate the immigration system and pursue safety, stability, and opportunity. We believe every young person deserves the chance to pursue their educational goals with dignity and without fear. Our team provides high-quality legal representation and support as young people seek to understand their rights and build their futures. The Staff Attorney (Special Immigrant Juvenile Status) will represent immigrant youth in New York Family Court and related immigration matters. This is a full-time, on-site position based in Manhattan, New York at 1560 Broadway, New York, NY 10036. The attorney will represent young people in proceedings to obtain the Family Court findings and orders needed to pursue Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS), and will support clients through the related immigration process, including associated removal proceedings, if applicable.

Responsibilities

• Represent young people in New York Family Court proceedings related to SIJS, including seeking appropriate custody or guardianship orders and SIJS predicate findings.
• Develop case strategy and prepare petitions, motions, affidavits, proposed orders, and supporting evidence.
• Appear in Family Court, communicate with court personnel, and manage cases through resolution.
• Prepare clients and witnesses for court appearances and testimony, using trauma-informed and age-appropriate practices.
• Prepare and file I-360 SIJS petitions with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and related applications for immigration relief.
• Work with clients to gather records and supporting documentation and explain legal processes, options, and developments in clear, accessible language.
• Coordinate with caregivers, social workers, schools, and other service providers as appropriate.
• Maintain accurate case records, meet filing deadlines, and manage a caseload effectively.
• Participate in case consultations, training, and other team activities.

Qualifications

Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school. Active license and good standing with the New York State Bar.

Requirements

Demonstrated experience practicing in New York Family Court, including preparing and handling family law matters involving custody, guardianship, or related proceedings. Experience representing children, immigrant youth, or other clients in sensitive family circumstances is strongly preferred. Experience with SIJS or immigration law is preferred.

Skills

Strong interest in a comprehensive approach to meeting the needs of young people and their families. Strong legal writing, oral advocacy, and problem-solving skills. Excellent organizational skills, including time management, record-keeping, and the ability to manage multiple assignments and deadlines independently. Ability to communicate effectively and work collaboratively with young people, colleagues, court personnel, and community partners. Fluency in Spanish, French, or Pulaar is strongly preferred. Deep commitment to social justice and serving immigrant communities. Ability to handle complex and sensitive matters with discretion, empathy, and sound judgment.

Pay

Salary range: $72,500–$95,000 per year.

Schedule

Full-time, 35 hours per week. On-site expectation: work on-site at least four days per week.

Benefits

Employer contribution to an Individual Coverage Health Reimbursement Arrangement (ICHRA).