Staff Attorney Children's Protection Project, NIJC

Company: National Immigrant Justice Center
Location: Chicago
Posted on: February 13, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description About NIJC The National Immigrant Justice Center (NIJC) advances human rights and due process for immigrants, refugees and asylum seekers through direct legal services, impact litigation, advocacy, and public education. Headquartered in Chicago with offices in Washington, DC, Indiana, and San Diego, NIJC's team of 100 attorneys, paralegals, and professionals, along with 2,000 pro bono attorneys, is at the forefront of immigration reform. Summary: NIJC seeks human rights/immigration attorneys with all years of experience, including recent law graduates, to join our nationally recognized team. This position provides legal representation and counseling to detained and non-detained unaccompanied immigrant children before U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS) and the Chicago Immigration Court. The Staff Attorney also advocates for clients before other government administrative agencies and before other service agencies, as needed and/or as appropriate. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: Conducts preliminary intake of interviews, gathering all relevant facts for presentation in supervisory meetings. Assesses income eligibility and recommends appropriate referrals for those individuals not eligible for NIJC's services. Provides pro se support when appropriate. Develops and implements case strategies through independent research and writing as well as collaboration with colleagues. Prepares cases for hearings by drafting legal documents, engaging in negotiation, preparing clients for testimony, and presenting evidence. Remains current on immigration law, policies, and procedures. Develops and maintains professional relationships with the U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS), government and social service organizations, and community organizations. Maintains complete and accurate client records. Prepares timely statistical reports. Conducts quarterly case audits for presentation and review of the Supervisor. Participates in training on immigration procedures as assigned by the Supervisor. May conduct training sessions as assigned by the Supervisor. Participates in developing and implementing special projects. Identifies trends and recurring legal and social concerns. Recommends strategies for solutions and other needed advocacy. Qualifications: Education and/or Experience: Juris Doctorate Degree required. Experience working with low-income immigrants, children, and survivors of violence preferred. Language Skills: Fluency in English and Spanish is required. Excellent oral and written communication skills. Demonstrated competency in public speaking and strong interpersonal skills required. Additional non-English language skills are preferred. Competencies: Computer Skills : Proficiency in Microsoft Office. Reasoning Ability: Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form. How to Apply Please Include: Your resume A compelling cover letter, including the following: Why you are interested in this specific role and in working for NIJC How your unique skills and experience will enable you to make a significant impact on our team and help us achieve our mission. A specific, brief example of a project or accomplishment from your past that best demonstrates your relevant qualifications. Physical Abilities Statement The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Must be able to remain in a stationary position 50% of the time. The person in this position occasionally needs to move about the inside of the office to access filing cabinets, office machinery, etc. Constantly operates a computer and other office productivity machinery, such as a copy machine. It is the policy of NIJC not to discriminate against any applicant for employment, or any employee because of age, color, sex, disability, national origin, race, religion, or veteran status. By submitting your application, you acknowledge and consent to undergo a comprehensive background check as part of the employment process. This background check will be conducted in compliance with applicable state and federal laws.

Keywords: National Immigrant Justice Center, Orland Park , Staff Attorney Children's Protection Project, NIJC, Legal , Chicago, Illinois