REMOVAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY (Houston)

About Us The Law Office of Shelle-Ann Simon, PLLC is a fast-growing immigration law firm based in Houston, Texas. We represent clients nationwide with a strong focus on humanitarian and complex immigration matters, including removal defense, VAWA, U visas, T visas, waivers, and adjustment of status. Our firm is known for high-touch advocacy, strong systems, and a collaborative team culture. We are seeking a Removal Defense Associate Attorney to join our team. This role is ideal for an attorney who is confident in court, client-facing, and ready to take ownership of hearings and interviews while being supported by a robust legal and paralegal team. Position Overview The Associate Attorney will primarily handle removal defense matters, including master calendar hearings, individual hearings, bond hearings, and related motions practice. The attorney will also represent clients at USCIS interviews and must be open to short-term travel when required. Hearings may be conducted remotely or in person, depending on jurisdiction. The role requires a strong commitment to advocacy, legal excellence, and creative problem-solving in support of immigrant communities. Key Responsibilities Represent clients in Immigration Court, including: Master Calendar Hearings Individual / Merits Hearings Bond Hearings Prepare and argue motions, including motions to terminate, suppress, reopen, and stay removal Prepare, file and argue claims for asylum, withholding of removal, Convention Against Torture (CAT), Cancellation of Removal (non-LPR and LPR), NACARA, and Adjustment of Status. Appear at USCIS interviews (AOS, I-751, VAWA-related matters, etc.) Provide clear legal strategy and guidance to clients Collaborate with paralegals and support staff to ensure filings are accurate and timely Maintain organized case notes and comply with firm systems and deadlines Travel as needed for hearings or interviews (typically short-term) Qualifications J.D. from an accredited law school Active license to practice law in any U.S. jurisdiction (Texas preferred, but not required) Demonstrated experience in removal defense Comfortable appearing before Immigration Judges Strong legal writing and oral advocacy skills Excellent client communication and professionalism Ability to manage deadlines and multiple cases independently Spanish fluency is a strong plus (but not required) Minimum of 3-5 years of removal defense practice. Work Environment & Schedule Hybrid and/or remote options available Must be available for in-person hearings or interviews as needed Supportive team structure with experienced paralegals and admin staff Clear systems, SOPs, and firm workflows in place Compensation & Benefits Competitive salary, commensurate with experience Performance-based bonuses PTO and paid holidays Professional growth opportunities within a rapidly expanding firm. Health and dental insurance through Blue Cross Blue Shield. Flexible Spending Account (FSA). Unlimited paid time off, including most federal holidays. 401(k) with employer match