Volunteer - Pro Bono Counsel

YMCA International Services is a unique branch of the Y of Greater Houston that seeks to meet the needs of Houston’s significant refugee and immigrant communities. We provide comprehensive programs that focus on building human assets and fostering self-sufficiency.

Functions

• Assist with initial client screenings and assist with intake interviews under the supervision of a YMCA staff attorney.
• Provide pro se assistance to clients, with all advice and filings reviewed by a staff attorney.
• Support staff attorneys in preparing immigration applications
• Assist in coordinating client services with case managers, supervising attorneys, and legal interns.
• Maintain and organize case files as directed, ensuring documents are complete and ready for staff attorney review.

Ideal Experience

• U.S. law license or awaiting BAR results, current and in good standing; Texas licensure is preferred.
• Fluency in an additional language is preferred.
• Experience in immigration law is preferred, significant law school experience may be considered.
• Advanced legal research.
• Strong communication skills, client-interviewing abilities, and an appreciation of multicultural experiences.
• Efficiently manage time and resources.
• Community minded-serving immigrants and being sensitive to the needs of low-income, culturally diverse clients served by the Y.
• Volunteer may be asked to assist staff in accompanying clients to USCIS interviews.