Immigration Attorney

About the role

Barnes & Thornburg is seeking a highly motivated attorney to join our South Bend Office within the Immigration and Global Mobility Services practice group. This position involves working directly under the supervision of the Immigration Partners and collaborating with team members across the firm in a fast-paced environment. The attorney will be responsible for handling a wide range of business immigration cases for a diverse set of clients, including corporate employers, universities, healthcare systems, and financial institutions. The role requires managing a high volume of cases, overseeing case review and drafting processes, and providing excellent client service. The successful candidate will have a strong interest in immigration law, excellent research and writing skills, and the ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Exercise significant discretion in managing business immigration cases, applying legal research skills, formulating legal arguments, and identifying relevant case law to support case strategies.
• Independently manage large caseloads, prioritizing tasks efficiently in a fast-paced environment while maintaining high standards of accuracy and professionalism.
• Review, draft, and monitor immigration petitions and applications, ensuring compliance with current laws and regulations.
• Communicate professionally and responsively with clients, providing updates, answering questions, and ensuring deadlines are met without compromising quality.
• Work with a broad range of case types, including PERM labor certification and recruitment processes, nonimmigrant visas such as H-1B, L-1, TN, and E visas, as well as immigrant visas including EB-1, EB-2, and EB-3 categories.
• Collaborate closely with team members, paralegals, and support staff to ensure case accuracy, completeness, and timely submission.
• Maintain a high level of professionalism, customer service, and teamwork with clients and internal teams, fostering a positive and productive work environment.
• Conduct legal research on immigration laws, policies, and procedures, staying current with any changes that may impact client cases.
• Support the firm's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion by interacting respectfully and effectively with clients and colleagues from diverse backgrounds.
• Assist in overseeing case review processes with paralegals and support staff, providing guidance and ensuring quality control.
• Participate in firm meetings, training sessions, and professional development activities to stay updated on immigration law trends and best practices.
• Contribute to the firm's reputation by providing high-quality legal services and maintaining client satisfaction.
• Support the firm's efforts in business development and community engagement related to immigration law.
• Maintain accurate case documentation and records in accordance with firm policies and legal standards.
• Assist with internal and external audits or reviews related to immigration case management.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school and current state license in good standing.
• Between 1 and 3 years of experience preparing business immigration applications and handling related legal matters.
• Strong academic performance with excellent research, writing, analytical, and communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple cases simultaneously, prioritize tasks effectively, and work independently when required.
• Experience working with high-volume immigration case management, including reviewing and drafting petitions.
• Knowledge of immigration procedures, including PERM labor certification, nonimmigrant visas (H-1B, L-1, TN, E), and immigrant visas (EB-1, EB-2, EB-3).
• Ability to exercise sound judgment, exercise discretion, and handle sensitive client information professionally.
• Excellent client interaction skills, with a congenial personality and a passion for immigration law.
• Well-organized, detail-oriented, and capable of managing time efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work effectively with professionals from diverse cultural backgrounds, including in-house counsel and HR teams.
• Strong legal research skills and familiarity with relevant immigration laws and policies.
• Commitment to professionalism, customer service, and teamwork.
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities and deadlines while maintaining high-quality work.

Nice to have

• Experience working with high-volume immigration caseloads and supporting large client accounts.
• Familiarity with the legal aspects of employment-based immigration processes and compliance.
• Prior work experience with clients in the corporate, technology, university, financial, or healthcare sectors.
• Knowledge of ITAR regulations related to immigration and international mobility.
• Bilingual skills or experience working with international clients and diverse populations.
• Participation in professional organizations related to immigration law.

Skills & tools

• Strong legal research and writing skills, with the ability to analyze complex legal issues.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact effectively with clients and colleagues.
• Organizational skills to manage multiple cases and deadlines efficiently.
• Attention to detail to ensure accuracy and compliance in all filings.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a dynamic environment.
• Proficiency in legal case management software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to adapt to new technology tools and legal research platforms as needed.

Practical notes

• This is an on-site role based in South Bend; the position does not offer remote or hybrid options unless explicitly stated.
• The firm values a collegial and inclusive work environment, supporting professional growth and development.
• Resumes submitted by external agencies or recruiters will not be considered or compensated.
• The role involves working with a diverse client base, including corporate clients, universities, and healthcare organizations.
• The firm is committed to equal employment opportunity and promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of employment.
• The position may involve occasional travel or participation in firm events.
• The firm provides a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and professional development opportunities.
• The successful candidate will be expected to uphold the firm's standards of integrity, confidentiality, and client service excellence.