DESCRIPTION
SUMMARY:
The Removal Defense Director is a staff attorney position that will lead and oversee the implementation of the UFW Foundation’s removal defense project serving immigrant communities. This position will be based in Bakersfield, CA and is a full-time exempt position. The UFW Foundation seeks an individual with removal defense experience that can help the organization, in collaboration with partners, develop a service delivery model that will maximize the limited resources in rural communities and leverage relationships from urban centers. Efforts will be focused on supporting and providing legal support for individuals detained at the Mesa Verde Immigration Detention Center located in Bakersfield.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING: (This is not an exhaustive list)
● Development and implementation of organizational removal defense program;
● Development of community education materials regarding removal defense resources and Know Your Rights;
● Prepare and submit applications, legal briefs, and supporting documentation for immigration relief, including but not limited to: asylum, withholding of removal, relief under the Convention Against Torture, U visa, VAWA, and adjustment of status with applicable waivers, refugee waivers, and SIJS;
● Conduct Know Your Rights presentations to individuals in detention or immigration court;
● Representation and assistance of detained and non-detained individuals in removal
proceedings, including but not limited to bond hearings, and full removal defense
representation;
● Provide trainings and technical assistance to UFW Foundation staff, volunteers and partnero
organizations;
● Recruitment and coordination of pro bono and low bono attorney support;
● Preparing and submitting reports to program funders; and
● Other tasks as needed.
SUPERVISING RESPONSIBILITIES:
● May include supervision of support staff members, fellows, and interns as the project grows;
● Coordinating attorneys, including pro bono volunteers and non-attorney advocates.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS AND/OR QUALIFICATIONS:
● Bilingual, Spanish language;
● Licensed attorney in good standing;
● 3+ years of removal defense experience and strong knowledge of immigration remedies
required;
● Detail oriented and strong writing skills;
● Supervisory experience;
● Excellent interpersonal skills, including good communication skills, listening skills and attitude;
● Ability to work both independently and under supervision;
● Ability to work flexible hours, including some evenings and weekends;
● Ability to keep track of projects and deadlines, and communicate progress in real-time.
● Problem solving/analysis and results driven;
● Dedication to mission. A genuine interest in immigrant and farm worker rights.
● Si Se Puede (It Can Be Done) attitude. The embodiment of a personal spirit that promotes
confidence, courage and risk-taking.
● Valid driver’s license, access to an automobile, insurance, and willingness to drive to off-site
locations.
BENEFITS
Family medical, dental, and vision, 40 hours paid sick leave, and vacation available after probationary period of 90 days, plus 10 paid holidays per calendar year.
LEVEL OF LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY
Spanish
PROFESSIONAL LEVEL
None specified
MINIMUM EDUCATION REQUIRED
J.D.
HOW TO APPLY
mosorio@ufwfoundation.org