Essential Functions of the position are detailed below, and include any physical requirements below that.
l. Renders highly confidential direct immigration legal counseling assistance to clients concerning immigration matters with emphasis on Family Reunification, Naturalization, Violence against Women Act (VAWA), and U Visas, involving analysis and evaluation of data based on current U.S. Immigration and Naturalization laws as related to their cases. Gathers information about individual cases to determine eligibility, advises clients on securing necessary documents to complete the required immigration forms. Refers complex cases to primarily pro-bono or low bono immigration attorneys as appropriate with approval from the program director and after written authorization of release of information from client.
2. Prepares the necessary immigration forms required by the US immigration laws and regulations for clients eligible to receive the immigration benefit and provides guidance regarding process involved, observing the professional conduct- rules and procedures for practitioners under the National Accreditation by the Department of Justice (DOJ) which govern the professional conduct for attorneys and accredited representatives.
3. Accompanies and represent clients before the USCIS Chicago District office, Department of Homeland Security, State Department, Consulates and Embassies abroad.
4. Responsible for taking fingerprints.
5. Participates in the planning of confidential administrative and organizational matters at the request of the program director.
6. Gathers appropriate data regarding Immigration laws, regulations and court decisions. Responsible for monitoring and procurement of ongoing technical data and research analysis on significant developments of Citizenship and Immigration Laws.
7. Must be fluent in English and Spanish. Notarizes documents when needed.
8. Maintains up-to-date and accurate client files and databases, as required by agency/programmatic policies and procedures, professional standards, and external requirements of all relevant regulatory, licensing or accrediting bodies in the course of performing job expectations. Generate reports as required for funder and program compliance as needed.
9. Participates in community outreach and education related to immigration law and benefits available to immigrants.
PLEASE NOTE: Essential functions include all other duties and responsibilities as assigned.
Kneel and move from sitting, bending, kneeling or standing multiple times a day.
Push and pull objects up to pounds.
X Climb up and down up to 3 flights of stairs at a time.
X Lift up to 10 pounds.
Additional Requirements:
Other Requirements Comply with program and/or Agency requirements related to (check all that apply).
X Background check, including any program specific requirements.
Physical examination
TB Testing
Drug Testing
Driver's License and reliable transportation
Agency-specified automobile insurance
Additional Requirements:
Immediate Supervisor: Program Director, Immigration /Naturalization Services
Directly Supervises: N/A
Indirectly Supervises: N/A
Education and Experience Requirements:
Relevant Education:
Preferred: Master's Degree
Minimum: Bachelor's Degree
Relevant Experience:
Preferred: 5 Years Paralegal, social services or related field
Minimum: 2 Years Paralegal, social services or related field
Certification/Licensure:
Preferred: 40 hours domestic violence certificate
Minimum: