Application Guide

How to Apply for U.S. Litigation Staff Attorney/ Senior Staff Attorney

at International Refugee Assistance Project

🏢 About International Refugee Assistance Project

IRAP is a global legal aid and advocacy organization uniquely focused on empowering refugees and displaced people through direct legal services and systemic litigation. Working here means joining a mission-driven team that combines high-impact federal litigation with policy advocacy and pro bono partnerships, offering a rare opportunity to shape refugee law and policy.

About This Role

This role involves leading and managing all aspects of litigation, from case development to discovery and motions practice, primarily in federal court. As a staff attorney, you'll collaborate across departments and with pro bono firms, directly impacting the rights and safety of refugees through strategic lawsuits and advocacy.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might start with a team check-in on active cases, followed by drafting a motion or reviewing discovery responses. You could then meet with pro bono partners to strategize a case, and later interview a client via interpreter. Afternoons often involve researching legal issues, preparing for a hearing, or writing a policy memo in collaboration with the advocacy team.

🚀 Application Tools

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who International Refugee Assistance Project Is Looking For

  • A seasoned litigator with 3+ years of federal court experience, comfortable managing complex cases and supervising junior attorneys or paralegals.
  • Demonstrated commitment to immigrant or refugee rights, ideally with prior work for marginalized communities or using interpreters for client communications.
  • Strong written and oral advocacy skills, with the ability to represent IRAP externally to media, donors, and coalition partners.
  • Self-motivated and collaborative, able to work remotely while leading cross-departmental initiatives and engaging with pro bono counsel.

📝 Tips for Applying to International Refugee Assistance Project

1

Highlight specific federal court litigation experience, including case outcomes, motion practice, and any supervisory roles.

2

If you have worked with refugee or immigrant communities, detail that experience even if it's pro bono or clinical work.

3

Tailor your cover letter to IRAP's mission—mention any knowledge of current refugee crises or asylum law.

4

Include examples of collaborating with non-legal teams (e.g., policy or communications) to advance litigation goals.

5

Demonstrate willingness to travel or work flexible hours if needed for case deadlines or client meetings.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Your passion for refugee rights and alignment with IRAP's mission of empowering displaced people.", 'Concrete examples of federal litigation experience, especially in complex cases involving government defendants.', 'Ability to work with interpreters and culturally diverse clients, showing cultural competency.', 'Interest in cross-departmental collaboration and representing IRAP externally.']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review IRAP's current litigation docket and recent victories on their website or via news.
  • → Read their policy reports and know their stance on recent asylum changes or travel bans.
  • → Understand their organizational structure and how the litigation team interacts with legal services and policy.
  • → Familiarize yourself with key pro bono partners and how IRAP leverages those relationships.
Visit International Refugee Assistance Project's Website →

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe a federal case you litigated from start to finish; what was your role and the outcome?
2 How would you approach a case where a client's story is complicated or inconsistent?
3 How do you prioritize competing deadlines when managing multiple litigation projects?
4 Give an example of a time you worked with a pro bono partner or co-counsel; how did you ensure coordination?
5 What do you think is the biggest legal challenge facing refugees in the U.S. today, and how would IRAP address it?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Don't focus solely on immigration law—this role is about litigation skills, not just substantive law.
  • Avoid generic statements about 'helping people' without showing specific litigation experience.
  • Don't overlook the remote work aspect; demonstrate your ability to work independently and manage your own time.

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to International Refugee Assistance Project!

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