Legal Assistant, Immigrant Children & Youth Program

Description:

GHIRP is an immigration legal services organization with 501(c)(3) status that launched in October 2020, with a mission to build a resilient, diverse community by providing comprehensive representation and holistic legal services to immigrants in need. GHIRP is seeking a full-time legal assistant to support attorneys representing children and youth in immigration-related matters, including court proceedings, asylum, special immigrant juvenile status, and other legal relief. The applicant must be fluent in English and Spanish.

Prior experience working with Unaccompanied Children and/or Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) facilities is preferred, and the starting salary will be adjusted to compensate for said experience.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Conduct Know Your Rights (KYR) presentations, comprehensive legal screenings, and needs assessments of children and youth, under attorney supervision.
• Coordinate client services and assist in obtaining supporting documentation and completing immigration legal applications, under attorney supervision.
• Assist with Immigration Court dockets and representation.
• Maintain regular contact with clients, including providing updates on case status and court hearings or deadlines, and following up on case outcomes.
• Direct and assist clients in the acquisition of social services and benefits, including through referrals to the ICY Social Services Coordinator.
• Organize and maintain client files and data for reporting.
• Participate in regular peer and supervisor review meetings and trainings.
• Contribute to grant proposals, reports, and periodic communications materials.
• Participate in outreach activities and information sessions for immigrants and social service agencies. Outreach may require occasional evening and weekend events.
• Perform all other duties as needed and/or as directed by supervisor.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent experience. Candidates working toward completion of their Bachelor’s will also be considered.
• Fluency in English and Spanish.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office, including proficiency in Excel.
• Previous experience in immigration law, case management, or social services is preferred.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage time and resources.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills.
• Team player, highly self-motivated, responsive, and a good trouble-shooter.
• Commitment to serving immigrants and sensitivity to the needs of low-income, culturally diverse clients.
• Texas Driver's License; clean driving record; own vehicle with applicable auto insurance.
• Must be able to pass national and statewide background checks and submit to drug testing upon hire.

GHIRP has outstanding benefits including medical and dental insurance, retirement, life insurance, long-term disability leave, and paid time off. We currently require at least 3 days per week in the office, with the option to work from home 2 days a week.

Must be fluent in English and Spanish.