Ruvalcaba Hernandez Law Firm, PLLC Bilingual Immigration Attorney – Removal Defense & Federal Litigation San Antonio, TX · Full time

Apply for Bilingual Immigration Attorney – Removal Defense & Federal Litigation

Ruvalcaba Hernández Law Firm, PLLC, is a family-owned law firm specializing in immigration and nationality law. Founded in 2020, at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, by Carlos I. Hernández and Norman D. Ruvalcaba Maldonado, the firm began with very modest resources. At that time, Carlos had recently been laid off from his job, and Norman had been living in the United States for less than two years. Together, they had less than $500.

Determined to move forward, they used a stash of spare change to purchase their first printer and began operating the business from their apartment, meeting clients in the apartment complex business center. As their client base expanded, they moved into their first office, a small space that could barely accommodate a desk and a side table.

Over time, Carlos and Norman—now husbands—grew the firm and began hiring their first employees, several of whom remain with the company today. They are deeply grateful to those early team members who took a leap of faith, and to every current employee who contributes to the firm’s success. Their family has grown as well, now including beloved pets and a baby.

Both Carlos and Norman are immigrants—Carlos has lived in the United States since the age of 15, and Norman arrived less than two years before founding the firm. Having personally navigated the immigration process, they understand the unique challenges, concerns, and aspirations of their clients. This shared experience is the foundation of the firm’s values: hard work, fairness, respect, and a commitment to making a meaningful difference. Ruvalcaba Hernández Law Firm strives to provide the high level of service they wish they had received, setting themselves apart from other law firms in the community.

Ruvalcaba Hernández Law Firm, PLLC is seeking an in-person Staff Attorney with strong experience in removal defense to represent both detained and non-detained clients before immigration courts. The attorney should also be well-versed in family-based petitions, inadmissibility waivers, and humanitarian relief (VAWA/T/U/SIJ).

While the primary focus is removal defense, the Staff Attorney could also be asked to support the firm’s broader immigration practice as needed. We also value immigration-related federal litigation experience—including habeas corpus petitions, mandamus actions, denaturalization defense, and appeals. Federal litigation experience in other contexts (civil or criminal) is also valued, as it can be applied in the immigration arena. Candidates with litigation skills may be eligible for higher compensation.

We are a tight-knit and collaborative team working in a fast-paced environment, and we are committed to professional growth. This role offers the opportunity to grow into a Lead or Supervising Attorney track for the right candidate.

Responsibilities:

• Represent detained and non-detained clients in removal proceedings before Immigration Courts, the Board of Immigration Appeals, USCIS, Texas courts, and other relevant agencies.
• Handle custody redetermination (bond) hearings, including gathering documentation and presenting persuasive arguments for release.
• Conduct master calendar and individual hearings; draft and file motions to terminate, motions to reopen, cancellation of removal applications, asylum applications, and supporting briefs.
• Prepare and file a wide range of immigration applications, including adjustment of status, consular processing, inadmissibility waivers, I-751 waivers, naturalization, SIJS, and humanitarian relief.
• Support clients through detention visits, hearings, and USCIS interviews.
• Develop legal strategies, prepare clients and witnesses, and handle consultations (in person and telephonic).
• Review FOIA results, client declarations, and psychological evaluations for accuracy and completeness.
• Supervise, guide, and collaborate with paralegals and legal staff in a team-oriented environment.
• Stay current on immigration law and communicate key updates to staff and clients.
• Travel in and out of state as needed for hearings and interviews.

Requirements:

• J.D. from an accredited law school (Texas preferred but not required)
• Active bar license in good standing
• Spanish fluency required
• 2–5 years of immigration law experience preferred, but strong new attorneys with significant clinic/internship experience will be considered
• Federal litigation experience (immigration or non-immigration) highly valued
• Strong legal research and writing skills
• Excellent client communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to manage a high-volume caseload in a fast-paced setting
• Comfort with case management technology

Compensation & Benefits:

• $80,000 – $150,000+ annually, commensurate with experience
• Candidates with federal litigation skills may be eligible for higher compensation
• 401(k) with matching
• Dental, health, vision, and life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development stipend
• Professional membership dues paid by the firm
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Why Join Us?

This is a unique opportunity for an attorney who wants to litigate, grow, and lead in a collaborative environment while making a direct impact on immigrant communities. We offer not only courtroom experience but also a clear growth path toward leadership roles within the firm.

If you are ready to bring your skills, passion, and drive to our team, we encourage you to apply.

Language:

• Spanish (required)

License/Certification:

• Bar License (required)

Willingness to travel:

• 25% (required)