Staff Attorney : Immigration Program – Removal Defense

The Erie County Bar Association Volunteer Lawyers Project (VLP) is seeking full-time Staff Attorneys to join its Immigration Program, in our Batavia, NY office. We are interviewing now for a position that would ideally start in January 2026.

This office handles work, under the Office of New Americans (ONA) State contract, at the Buffalo Federal Detention Facility in Batavia. This is a public defender model program where we represent all detained people who are facing deportation and are not otherwise represented. This position will work out of our Batavia, NY office with the ability to work a hybrid remote / in-office schedule after the successful completion of the 3-month introductory period. Office culture values work / life balance with reasonable working hours and discourages weekend work. Generous PTO and benefits.

Duties / Responsibilities :

• handle individual caseload and represent clients before DOJ-EOIR, DHS, and BIA defending detained low-income immigrants who are subject to removal for a variety of reasons including criminal convictions, unlawful entry and visa overstays
• work collaboratively with Paralegals and Social Workers and act as an additional resource to them
• grant / data reporting
• special projects / community outreach and education as directed
• Local travel to and from the Buffalo Federal Detention Facility is required as well as occasional trips to the Buffalo office. Valid driver's license and regular access to a reliable vehicle are required.
• other duties may be assigned

Requirements / Skills - Required :

required data about the work in a timely and accurate manner

independently

Requirements / Skills - Preferred (not required) :

Those without previous experience but possessing the desire and / or language skills are encouraged to apply.

Salary / Benefits :

Pension contributions, and an Employee Assistance Program

Forgiveness program (DALF).

VLP is an equal-opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply. Employer recruits without regard to age, race, color, creed, religion, national origin, immigration or citizenship status, pregnancy-related condition, predisposing genetic characteristics, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital and familial status, domestic violence victim status, disability, military status, or protected veteran status.

For information on VLP, see