Law Graduate for Immigration Services (IDPL) - Citizenship
COMPANY DESCRIPTION
Instituto del Progreso Latino is a community organization whose mission is to contribute to the fullest development of Latino(a) immigrants and their families through education, training and employment that fosters participation in the changing U.S. society while preserving cultural identity and dignity. Founded in 1977 to help Latino’s learn basic skills, pass the civil service exam and obtain higher paying post office jobs, Instituto has grown to a flourishing educational center serving over 14,000 Chicago families per year.
POSITION DESCRIPTION
The Law Graduate for Immigration Services at Instituto del Progreso Latino will provide qualified assistance and support to legal staff and DOJ Representatives. This support includes filling out applications for TPS and asylum cases, reviewing N-400 forms as requested, and filing updates or follow up appointments for TPS, N-400, and adjustment of status, U visa, T Visa, VAWA, among other immigration matters. The Law Graduate for Immigration Services will interview clients and fill out the forms listed above under direct supervision of a qualified attorney. The Law Graduate who joins Instituto will be expected to assume the following responsibilities:
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Interview clients (predominantly Spanish speaking) to assist DOJ Accredited Application Specialist and Staff Immigration Attorneys determine eligibility for legal remedies.
- Assist in filling out applications such as TPS, Asylum, Change of Venue, N-400 as requested, and assure that applications are completely and correctly filled out, and have all needed supporting documentation.
- Prepare cases for interview or hearing, including drafting legal papers, conducting client advocacy, presenting evidence, etc. in accord with the Code of Professional Responsibility for the legal profession.
- Carry a volume of work as required by the department.
- Develop and implement case strategies.
- Collaborate with Staff Immigration Attorneys, other staff Law Graduates and DOJ Accredited Application Specialist on their immigration law caseload.
- Monitor changes to immigration law, regulations and policy. Prepare for significant changes in immigration law and their impact on client services.
- Represent Instituto at community functions, and at other events as requested; May conduct Know Your Rights presentations or in person and virtual community workshops.
- Provide intakes at off-site partnering organization immigration clinics, including downtown Chicago on a regular basis.
- Remain current on immigration law, policies and procedures.
- Remain current on implications of criminal and civil law as it applies to the representation of immigrants.
- Develop and maintain professional relationships with government and social service organizations and community organizations as necessary or as requested.
- Perform other responsibilities as assigned by supervisor.
QUALIFICATIONS, EXPERIENCE/EDUCATION
- Pass the Juris Doctorate Degree coursework.
- At least one year of internship or assisting attorneys with a preference in immigration and/or human rights law.
- Self-motivated and committed to civil liberties advocacy.
- Demonstrate ability to work cooperatively on a variety of projects with lawyers, other staff members, and diverse community organizations and coalitions.
- Demonstrate team-player with exemplary interpersonal skills in collaborating and communicating with others.
- Ability to succeed in a fast-paced nonprofit start-up environment.
- Fluency in Spanish strongly preferred.
- Must be able to work on site at Instituto del Progreso Latino or travel to downtown Chicago on a weekly basis.
- Excellent writing and analytical skills.
- Ability to communicate effectively in legal and non-legal settings with a wide range of individuals and organizations.
- Ability to read, analyze, and interpret professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations.
- Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals.
- Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, clients, customers, and the general public.
The above is intended to describe the general conditions of and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities and requirements.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Nature of work requires an ability to stand for long periods of time, speak during presentations in front of groups, and operate standard business office equipment. Requires ability to communicate and exchange information, collect, compile and prepare work documents, set-up and maintain work files.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Majority of work performed in a general office environment. Position requires availability for extended hours plus non-traditional hours may be required to perform job duties. Also requires participation and attendance at organization sponsored events and meetings.
Instituto del Progreso Latino is an Equal Opportunity Employer
