Immigration Attorney (removal Defense)

Job Title Immigration Attorney (Removal Defense & Federal Litigation) Employment Type Full-Time | In-Person or Hybrid Locations Pasadena, CA | Santa Ana, CA About The Role We are seeking an experienced Immigration Attorney with a strong background in removal defense to join our team. This role focuses on immigration court litigation, including hearings, motion practice, and appeals, with removal defense forming the core of the position. As part of our continued growth, we are also expanding our federal litigation practice. Attorneys with experience in mandamus, habeas, or APA litigation—or a demonstrated interest in developing this area—will have the opportunity to contribute to and help shape this aspect of the firm's work. This is a strong fit for an attorney who is confident in removal defense and interested in taking ownership of their cases while expanding into federal litigation within a supportive and structured environment. Why Join Us Competitive Compensation, Growth Potential & Performance Incentives: We offer a base salary of $130,000 - $155,000, depending on experience, with additional earning potential for attorneys who take on advanced litigation work, including federal court matters. Performance-based bonuses are designed to recognize strong results and meaningful contributions. Our benefits package includes health, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) plan with employer contributions, HSA options, and paid time off Practical Flexibility: While court appearances, USCIS interviews, and client meetings require in-person attendance, we offer flexibility for drafting, research, and case preparation to support productivity and work-life balance High-quality, Meaningful Work: You will work on substantive removal defense cases that directly impact clients' lives. This is not volume-driven work—our focus is on thoughtful strategy and strong advocacy Leadership & Ownership: This role includes the opportunity to mentor and supervise paralegals and law clerks, take ownership of cases, and contribute to legal strategy. High-performing attorneys will play a meaningful role in shaping both case outcomes and the development of the team Strong Team Support & Infrastructure: You will be supported by an experienced team and structured workflows that allow you to focus on legal work rather than administrative burden. We value efficiency, accountability, and high-quality output Key Responsibilities Represent clients in removal proceedings before the Immigration Court, including Master Calendar and Individual Hearings Draft and litigate motions to reopen, reconsider, terminate, and other post-order relief Prepare and file appeals and briefs before the BIA Conduct legal research and develop case strategies Analyze records, including FOIA responses, to support case development Prepare clients and witnesses for hearings Appear at USCIS interviews and related proceedings as needed Supervise, mentor, and manage paralegals and law clerks, including reviewing work product, providing guidance, and ensuring deadlines and quality standards are met Oversee case preparation and workflow, maintaining organization, accuracy, and compliance across assigned matters Collaborate with team members to ensure efficient case management and strong client service Additional Responsibilities for Attorneys with Federal Litigation Experience Lead or support federal court matters, including mandamus, habeas, and APA actions Help develop internal processes and strategy for federal litigation cases Draft complaints, motions, and briefs in federal district court Qualifications J.D. from an accredited law school and active U.S. bar license Minimum 5 years of immigration law experience required Minimum 3+ years of removal defense experience (required) Experience handling Master Calendar and Individual Hearings independently Strong motion practice and appellate writing skills Ability to manage litigation matters with minimal supervision Demonstrated ability or willingness to mentor and supervise junior staff Excellent analytical, writing, and case strategy skills Bilingual proficiency in Spanish or Mandarin preferred but not required. Authorization to work in the United States (required) If you are an experienced immigration attorney committed to excellence in advocacy, strategic thinking, and client-centered representation, we encourage you to apply. #J-18808-Ljbffr