Associate Attorney - Entry Level Immigration Attorney (Removal Defense)

Job Overview The Cardiel Law Firm APC is seeking a motivated, compassionate, and client-centered Entry-Level Associate Attorney to join our immigration practice, with a primary focus on removal defense. This role is ideal for a newly licensed attorney or early-career attorney who is passionate about advocating for immigrant communities and is eager to build litigation and courtroom experience in immigration law.

The ideal candidate is bilingual, highly organized, and comfortable managing a dynamic caseload with support from an experienced legal team. Candidates licensed in California are strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Represent clients in removal defense matters before the Immigration Court and, when applicable, before USCIS.
• Review and file immigration applications, motions, briefs, declarations, and other legal documents.
• Develop a case strategy and clearly explain legal options to clients.
• Prepare clients for hearings, interviews, and testimony before USCIS and Immigration Court.
• Conduct legal research and draft persuasive written advocacy.
• Manage case files from intake through resolution, ensuring timely filings and accurate documentation.
• Communicate regularly with clients regarding case updates, deadlines, and expectations.
• Collaborate with legal assistants, paralegals, and firm leadership to ensure strong client service.
• Meet all court deadlines, filing requirements, and ethical obligations.
• Participate in trainings, team meetings, and ongoing professional development.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
• Active bar license required; California bar admission preferred.
• Bilingual fluency in English and Spanish required.
• Strong legal writing, research, and analytical skills.
• Demonstrated interest or experience in immigration law; familiarity with removal defense is a plus but not required
• Ability to handle multiple cases efficiently while maintaining attention to detail
• Excellent client communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage deadlines and competing priorities.

This is a full-time, exempt position based in California with hybrid/remote eligibility. Attorneys are expected to exercise sound professional judgment in managing workload, deadlines, and client needs while maintaining compliance with all legal and ethical obligations.

Pay: $75,000.00 - $85,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Los Angeles, CA 90010