Description:

A Non-Profit Organization that 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 attorney to provide direct representation to non-citizens seeking benefits before USCIS and EOIR. This position will primarily serve who have experienced victimization such as assault, domestic violence, human trafficking, and other violent crimes. .

Duties /Responsibilities

Provide comprehensive intakes, advice and counsel and direct representation before USCIS.
Ensure contract compliance, including submitting monthly reports and ensuring that data is entered accurately and timely as required.
Work closely with stakeholders, such as USCIS, 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.
Attend outreach events to reach community members.
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.
Fluency in an additional language is preferred.
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 and annual case submission goals for intake and filing of applications as set by direct supervisor.