This position provides provides general paralegal support through intake, research, case review, documentation preparation and other related tasks to support general operations and the work of staff and pro bono attorneys. This posting is for a position with the Immigrant Children’s Protection Project, which represents and advocates for detained and non-detained immigrant children who face the possibility of deportation to a dangerous homeland. NIJC works with a strong network of pro bono attorneys to ensure that every child who comes before the Chicago immigration court has access to legal counsel.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conducts intake, as assigned.
• Conducts legal and factual research.
• Assesses cases to determine eligibility.
• Conducts interviews with clients and witnesses.
• Drafts applications, affidavits, letters and/or legal pleadings and prepares supporting documentation.
• Prepares materials for submission to Department of Homeland Security, Immigration Court, or other entities as appropriate.
• Reviews, analyzes and presents cases to supervisor.
• Conducts educational presentations.
• Remains current on immigration law, policies and procedures.
• Maintains complete, thorough, accurate and current records in an organized fashion in accordance with legal standards, rules and ethics.

Qualifications:

• Education and/or Experience: Bachelors degree with demonstrated experience working with immigrants, refugees and/or asylum seekers. At least one year of experience working with these populations preferred.
• Language Skills: Fluency in another language may be required. Ability to communicate articulately with internal and external audiences.
• Other Qualifications: Excellent writing, editing, organizational and computer skills required. Ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently and perform well under strict deadlines.