Staff Attorney – Afghan Legal Relief Project (Temporary)

Salary: $75,000 annualized salary. Compensation will be prorated based on the employee's length of service in this temporary position, which ends June 30, 2027.
Schedule: Full-Time
Location: Hybrid/Remote with travel to Bridgeport, New Haven, and Hartford, CT, as needed
Temporary Position: Through June 30, 2027

Make a Meaningful Difference

The Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants (CIRI) is seeking a compassionate and dedicated Staff Attorney to join our Afghan Legal Relief Project. This position offers a unique opportunity to make a lasting impact on the lives of Afghan families rebuilding their futures in the United States while contributing to the delivery of high-quality immigration legal services.

Since September 2021, CIRI's Refugee Services Program has resettled more than 200 Afghan individuals and families throughout Connecticut, providing comprehensive case management and support. As these families move into the next phase of establishing permanent stability, this position plays a critical role in helping clients obtain immigration relief and secure lawful status.

CIRI is Connecticut's largest nonprofit provider of affordable immigration legal services. Our Immigration Legal Services Program assists approximately 2,500–3,500 individuals each year with adjustment of status, family reunification, citizenship, humanitarian relief, asylum, and other immigration matters. The Afghan Legal Relief Project expands this work by providing dedicated legal services to Afghan clients pursuing asylum, Temporary Protected Status (TPS), family-based immigration benefits, and other available forms of relief.

Position Summary

The Staff Attorney serves as the primary legal provider for the Afghan Legal Relief Project. The attorney will provide direct representation to Afghan clients, manage an independent caseload, and collaborate closely with CIRI's Refugee Services team to ensure clients receive coordinated, holistic support. The position may also work with pro bono attorneys and volunteers to expand legal service capacity.

Essential Responsibilities

• Provide legal consultations, case assessments, and direct representation for Afghan clients seeking immigration relief, including asylum, TPS, family-based petitions, and other humanitarian options. 
• Prepare, file, and manage immigration applications and supporting documentation. 
• Represent clients during immigration interviews and other proceedings, as appropriate. 
• Independently manage a full caseload while ensuring timely, accurate, and high-quality legal services. 
• Collaborate with CIRI's Refugee Services staff to coordinate comprehensive client support. 
• Assist with coordinating and supporting pro bono attorneys and legal volunteers. 
• Conduct community outreach, legal information sessions, and educational presentations regarding immigration options and eligibility. 
• Maintain complete, accurate, and confidential client records in accordance with legal and organizational standards. 
• Stay informed of changes in immigration laws, regulations, and policies affecting Afghan clients and humanitarian immigration programs. 

Qualifications

• J.D. or LL.M. from an accredited law school. 
• Active membership in good standing with the bar of any U.S. jurisdiction. 
• Minimum of two (2) years of immigration law experience. 
• Strong knowledge of asylum law, Temporary Protected Status (TPS), and other humanitarian forms of immigration relief. 
• Experience serving low-income immigrant populations and individuals who have experienced trauma preferred. 
• Ability to work independently while effectively managing a high-volume caseload. 
• Excellent organizational, written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills. 
• Strong attention to detail and sound legal judgment. 
• Demonstrated commitment to serving refugee and immigrant communities and advancing CIRI's mission. 

Why Join CIRI?

At CIRI, you'll join a mission-driven team dedicated to welcoming and supporting refugees and immigrants throughout Connecticut. Your work will directly impact individuals and families seeking safety, stability, and opportunity while contributing to a collaborative organization committed to equity, compassion, and justice.

This is a full-time, grant-funded temporary position ending June 30, 2027. Compensation will be prorated based on the employee's start date and length of employment in the position.