Address
Form of workYMCA International Services is a unique branch of the Y of Greater Houston and 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. The YMCA International Services seeks one Spanish-speaking attorney to educate non-detained respondents in removal (deportation) proceedings about the Immigration Court process through individual and group information sessions, pro se support and Friend of Court services.
- Provide intake, advice and counsel and robust pro se support support through workshops and Friend of Court services before the EOIR Immigration Court.
- Ensure contract compliance, including submitting monthly reports and ensuring that data is entered accurately and timely as required.
- Work closely with stakeholders, such as EOIR, DHS and/or ORR to maintain a positive working relationship, and ensure that participants' needs are met.
- Participate in trainings, calls and meetings with funders and technical assistance providers to stay up-to-date with new legal and programmatic developments.
- May require managing a caseload with complex immigration issues.
- Coordinate client services with case managers, supervising attorney, and legal interns.
- Organize and maintain client files and data for reporting purposes.
- Participate in regular peer and supervisor review meetings and legal trainings.
- Collaborate with other agencies, stakeholders, and service providers to procure client services and network with like-minded organizations.
- Provide mentorship and trainings in order to recruit and train pro bono attorneys.
- Perform all other duties as needed and/or as directed by supervisor including airport pickup of newly arrived refugees and food pantry distribution.
- Report suspicious and inappropriate behaviors and policy violations.
- Follow mandated abuse and incident reporting requirements.
- Meet timelines and deadlines related to supporting systems and employee compliance, i.e. Kronos Workforce Ready for review and approval of time sheets.
Requirements and Skills
- U.S. law license, current and in good standing; Texas licensure is preferred.
- Candidate must be fluent in Spanish and English.
- Experience in immigration law is preferred, significant law school experience may be considered.
- Advanced legal research and writing skills.
- Strong communication skills, client-interviewing abilities, and an appreciation of multicultural experiences.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage time and resources.
- Excellent organizational skills.
- Ability to work well with others, to work under pressure and handle a large volume of consultations, clients, and data, and highly self-motivated.
- Commitment to serving immigrants and sensitivity to the needs of low-income, culturally diverse clients.
- Texas Driver's License; clean driving record; own vehicle; applicable auto insurance. Candidate must be willing to commute to detention facilities and shelters (45 minutes to 1.5 hours away).
- Federal government clearance may be required for this position.
Outcomes
- Provide holistic, person-centered representation to clients, including timely assistance in the preparation of applications for benefits, relief, etc.
- Timely prepare and submit data for monthly and quarterly reports;
- Maintain an active caseload of approximately 40 clients per year;
- Meet monthly case goals for intake and filing of applications as set by direct supervisor.
The YMCA of Greater Houston provides the following:
- Highly competitive compensation
- Generous and flexible PTO
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Long term disability, basic life insurance, and other voluntary benefits
- 403 (B) retirement plan
- Free YMCA membership
- Annual bar dues, CLEs and substantive trainings, AILA membership
- Loan repayment assistance may be available
The YMCA of Greater Houston provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.
