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Entry Level Immigration Attorney Jobs in California

Pearl Law Group

Global Case Assistant

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$20 - $26.50/hr

... Law Firms" (Immigration) by U.S. News and World Report/Best Lawyers. And Pearl Law Group ... This is an entry-level position that handles a wide variety of administrative functions.

Pearl Law Group

Global Case Assistant

San Francisco, CA

$20 - $26.50/hr

... Law Firms" (Immigration) by U.S. News and World Report/Best Lawyers. And Pearl Law Group ... This is an entry-level position that handles a wide variety of administrative functions.

All JobsImmigration Attorney JobsEntry Level Immigration Attorney JobsEntry Level Immigration Attorney Jobs in California

Entry Level Immigration Attorney information

See California salary details

$38K

$89K

$144.6K

How much do entry level immigration attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level immigration attorney in California is $89,042.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,600.00 and $95,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Immigration Attorney vs Paralegal in Immigration Law?

AspectEntry Level Immigration AttorneyParalegal in Immigration Law
CredentialsJuris Doctor (JD), State Bar Admission (or eligibility)Associate degree or paralegal certification
Work EnvironmentLaw firms, government agencies, NGOsLaw firms, legal departments, immigration clinics
ResponsibilitiesLegal research, client consultations, preparing legal documents, representing clientsDrafting forms, organizing case files, conducting research, supporting attorneys

Entry Level Immigration Attorneys and Paralegals in Immigration Law both work within the legal field, often in similar environments. Attorneys handle legal strategies and client representation, requiring a law degree and bar admission. Paralegals support attorneys with case preparation and document management, typically with a paralegal certification. While their roles overlap in research and document handling, attorneys have broader responsibilities including legal advice and court appearances.

What does an Entry Level Immigration Attorney do?

An Entry Level Immigration Attorney assists clients with immigration-related legal matters, such as visa applications, green cards, citizenship, and deportation defense. They provide legal advice, prepare and file paperwork, and represent clients in immigration court or before government agencies. Entry level attorneys often work under the supervision of more experienced lawyers while building their expertise in immigration law. Their role is crucial in helping individuals and families navigate complex immigration processes and stay compliant with changing regulations.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level immigration attorneys, and how can they overcome them?

Entry level immigration attorneys often encounter challenges such as managing a high caseload, navigating complex and evolving immigration laws, and communicating effectively with clients from diverse backgrounds. To overcome these, it's important to stay organized, seek mentorship from more experienced attorneys, and actively participate in professional development opportunities. Building strong communication skills and cultural competence will also help foster trust with clients and improve case outcomes. Many law firms and non-profit organizations provide structured training and resources to support new attorneys in adapting to these challenges.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Immigration Attorney, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Immigration Attorney, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, bar admission, and a solid understanding of immigration law and legal research. Familiarity with case management software, legal databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis, and document preparation tools is typically required. Strong communication, cultural sensitivity, and attention to detail are crucial soft skills for building client trust and managing complex cases. These skills and qualifications ensure effective advocacy, compliance with regulations, and successful outcomes for clients navigating the immigration process.

What Does an Entry-Level Immigration Attorney Do?

Entry-level immigration attorneys meet with clients and provide information on laws surrounding citizenship, visas, customs, and other immigration issues. As an entry-level attorney, research is one of your main duties. You also prepare and develop legal documents for clients and senior attorneys. Assisting senior attorneys in court as an associate, handling the paperwork, and providing client care are also critical responsibilities. You need exceptional organizational skills, as you must analyze large amounts of data and write articulate and accurate briefs on your findings. You travel to various locations to meet with clients and broker deals with prosecuting attorneys and judges.

More about Entry Level Immigration Attorney jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Immigration Attorney jobs in California? The most popular types of Immigration Attorney jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Immigration Attorney jobs in California? For Entry Level Immigration Attorney jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Immigration Attorney jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Immigration Attorney jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Immigration Attorney jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Immigration Attorney job openings:
Entry Level Immigration Attorney jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Immigration Attorney job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% Locum Tenens, 77% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,042 per year, or $42.8 per hour.
CCLS Staff Attorney - Legal Advice Line

CCLS Staff Attorney - Legal Advice Line

Central California Legal Services, Inc.

Fresno, CA • On-site

$71K - $92K/yr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Reports to
Directing Attorney
FLSA Status
Full-Time, Exempt (Union position)
Application Deadline
Until Filled
Salary
$71,194 to $92,703 per year
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
Central California Legal Services (CCLS) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that was founded in 1966 for the purpose of providing free civil legal services to low-income individuals. CCLS core counties include Fresno, Kings, Mariposa, Merced, Tulare, and Tuolumne. CCLS's health work also extends to San Luis Obispo, Monterey, San Benito, and Stanislaus counties. In Madera County, CCLS provides limited services to seniors and on health issues. CCLS has offices in Fresno, Merced, and Visalia, and satellite offices in Mendota and Los Banos. With nearly one hundred (100) employees, CCLS's work includes direct services that meet our clients' immediate needs, education, and advocacy.
JOB DESCRIPTION
CCLS seeks a staff attorney to join the Legal Advice Line (LAL) intake team. LAL allows individuals and groups in Central California to apply for and, if determined eligible, to receive legal advice regarding a wide range of legal issues. This opportunity would be excellent for an entry level staff attorney to gain general knowledge of several areas of law, in addition to gaining experience with intake processes and accompanying regulations common to non-profit and legal service offices. In-person work is preferred for this role, but CCLS will consider remote work, depending on experience.
Under the supervision of the LAL Directing Attorney, the staff attorney will work with the team to efficiently deliver high-quality legal information, advice, and referrals for civil legal issues in the areas of housing, immigration, senior citizen support, public benefits, health, consumer, basic estate planning, and family security.
Requirements
DUTIES
  • Responsible for effectively and efficiently answering questions from staff and confirming that legal advice provided by LAL staff is accurate and appropriate;
  • Assists in monitoring the LAL call flow and performance, call data reports, and the status of cases sent for follow-up;
  • Reviews LAL files for transfer and closing;
  • Reviews and revises advocate closing letters to ensure compliance with legal standards and the timely closure of LAL files;
  • Conducts initial applicant screening, performs conflict checks, and determines eligibility for services;
  • Ensures that LAL is providing appropriate referrals to applicants that are determined to be non-eligible;
  • Maintains electronic client case files, conveys legal advice and information consistent with established guidelines;
  • Assists the LAL Directing Attorney in research of complex legal issues and writes internal memorandums on their interpretation and provides guidance on those legal issues;
  • Participates in organizational projects such as developing and conducting client surveys to improve delivery of client services;
  • Participates in weekly LAL meetings for case review and substantive training;z
  • Organizes and mails appropriate correspondence and literature to clients, as needed;
  • Continuously improves their knowledge and ability to provide efficient, high-quality legal assistance;
  • Engages in community outreach as directed and as needed;
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS
  • Active member in good standing of the State Bar of California;
  • All levels of experience are welcome to apply;
  • Prior legal aid experience and/or a demonstrated commitment to access to justice for underserved communities is preferred;
  • Bilingual ability in Spanish or another language commonly spoken in the CCLS service area is highly preferred;
  • Ability to work under pressure and deal with stress while maintaining a professional and appropriate manner with callers and staff;
  • Ability to work quickly but accurately, multi-task, and meet short deadlines;
  • Ability to work both independently and cooperatively in a team environment; maintain a positive working relationship with team and other staff members;
  • Ability to interact with individuals and groups in a professional, courteous, and culturally competent manner.
  • Ability to quickly learn, obtain and maintain a detailed understanding of substantive law areas addressed by the Legal Advice Line;
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a detailed understanding of, and ensure compliance with, grantor requirements and CCLS policy and practices;
  • Ability to speak on the phone and take consecutive calls for up to two hours at a time without a break, multiple times per day; applicant must speak clearly and effectively, and be courteous with individuals seeking assistance in person and over the phone;
  • Ability to be punctual and reliable in attending work and keeping work commitments;
  • Competency/experience with PC systems and standard software (Microsoft Office, Access, Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint; ability to gain expertise in the current case file management system and Zoom call center platform;
  • Reliable transportation, a valid CA drivers' license with appropriate car insurance;
  • Commitment to CCLS' mission and core values.

Salary Description
$71,194 to $92,703 per year

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