Legal Assistant

Job Summary: The Legal Assistant will support the Immigration Attorneys to prepare various aspects of a client's immigration case. Legal Assistants also serve as interpreters in English and Spanish.

Responsibilities may include the following duties: Prepare applications for legal relief, conduct legal intakes, screening and assessing eligibility for legal relief, develop legal defense strategies, draft legal statements, and assist attorneys in document review and all aspects of case preparation. As a Translator/Interpreter, duties may include translation of legal forms, certificates, and declarations, as well as legal interpretation at court hearings, government interviews, and with pro bono attorneys. Legal Assistants will participate in relevant training and will provide specialized training to staff and external parties, including attorneys. Other tasks may include corresponding with clients and government officials by phone, email and in person; managing appointment schedules; filing deadlines and document collection; organizing, maintaining, and updating clients' case files and records in physical files and case management software; payment collection/invoicing (for non-pro bono cases); mailing as necessary; assisting with special projects, as necessary.

Direct Report To: Supervisor Supervises: No

FLSA STATUS: Non-Exempt

Duties/Responsibilities

Essential Job Functions:

• Provide direct assistance and support to up to 4 immigration attorneys and/or DOJ Representatives;
• Facilitate communication between the client and the legal provider, which includes: the delivery of interpretation and translation services as needed;
• Manage client communication from the point of intake throughout the case preparation process, which includes working with clients to gather and prepare case documentation and evidence;
• Maintain and organize current physical and electronic client files;
• Document and maintain records of client interactions, ensuring the consistent upkeep of accurate and comprehensive logs.
• Coordinate client referral to Social Services within our program or to other services provided by the organization;
• Assist and participate in special projects, immigration legal workshops, and relevant training. Legal Assistants are expected to provide specialized training to staff and external parties, including attorneys.
• Ensure compliance with program-related grant requirements;
• Ensure compliance with organization policies and procedures;
• Additional Administrative tasks to manage: payment collection/invoicing (for Low Bono cases); mailing; calendar and scheduling; office supplies; and a limited amount of phone calls.

Physical Requirements: Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer. Sitting, Standing, Walking, Talking, sitting at a desk, and working on a computer. Must be able to lift fifteen pounds at times. Physical Demands: Sedentary physical activity performing non-strenuous daily activities of an administrative nature.

1. Stand less than 33% of time on duty.
2. Walk less than 33% of the time on duty.
3. Sit between 33% and 66% of time on duty.
4. Use of hands to finger, handle or feel over 66% of time on duty.
5. Reach with hands or arms less than 33% of time.
6. Full ability to talk and hear.
7. Correctable vision required.
8. Able to lift/carry up to 15 lbs.

Minimum Educational and General Qualifications:

• Completely fluent in Spanish and English (written and oral) required.
• Bachelor's degree strongly preferred;
• Previous Administrative or office experience preferred;
• Strong interpersonal and culturally competent communication skills.
• Respect and sensitivity to people's needs, and a good understanding of immigrant issues.
• Ability to work independently and to self-manage a substantial workload with deadline pressures.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and multitasking.
• Must be able to effectively manage a large caseload in a fast-paced environment.
• Team player, must be able to function as part of a large team.
• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality regarding all cases and client information.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook, and ability to learn immigration database/software. The position also requires the regular use of scanners, fax machines, and other technology.
• Candidates must complete required background checks and clearances.