UNHCR Hired Lawyer (UHL)

Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by UNHCR, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, which was established in 195

• The organization is dedicated to protecting the rights and well-being of refugees, forcibly displaced communities, and stateless people. UNHCR operates in over 130 countries and has a workforce of more than 18,000 staff members. Its mission is to ensure that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another state, and to return home voluntarily, integrate locally, or resettle in a third country. UNHCR's Legal Services Project in Iran aims to provide legal assistance to refugees, particularly Afghan and Iraqi refugees, through various mechanisms including Dispute Settlement Committees (DSCs) and the engagement of Hired Lawyers (UHLs).

Job Overview:
The UNHCR Hired Lawyer (UHL) position is focused on providing legal advice and assistance to Afghan and Iraqi refugees and asylum seekers residing in Iran. The UHL will work either in their own office or at the UNHCR office, depending on the needs of the beneficiaries. The role involves not only offering legal counsel but also representing beneficiaries in courts and other legal settings when necessary. The UHL is expected to report on the legal situation of refugees, participate in Dispute Settlement Committee sessions, and engage in community-based projects aimed at enhancing legal services for refugees. The UHL will also be responsible for conducting legal awareness sessions and maintaining communication with UNHCR regarding the legal issues faced by refugees. This position requires a proactive approach to resolving legal matters and ensuring that beneficiaries are informed about their rights and the free nature of the legal services provided.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The UHL will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including but not limited to: providing legal advice and assistance to refugees, representing them in legal proceedings, reporting on the situation of beneficiaries, and participating in DSC sessions. The UHL will also be tasked with holding legal awareness sessions, intervening in cases of deportation, and maintaining good relationships with legal entities such as the Judiciary and Bar Association. Additionally, the UHL must ensure compliance with UNHCR's Code of Conduct, participate in training and meetings, and provide regular reports on their activities. The UHL is expected to act in the best interest of the beneficiaries while upholding the values and objectives of UNHCR.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of a Bachelor's Degree in Law and be a certified member of the Iranian Bar Association. They should have at least three years of relevant work experience in legal practice. The UHL must demonstrate a strong understanding of the legal framework surrounding refugees and asylum seekers in Iran, as well as the ability to navigate complex legal issues. Additionally, candidates should exhibit strong communication skills and a commitment to the principles of human rights and legal advocacy.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for this position is a Bachelor's Degree in Law. This foundational education is essential for understanding the legal principles and frameworks that govern the rights of refugees and asylum seekers. Candidates must also be certified members of the Iranian Bar Association, which indicates their qualification to practice law in Iran and their familiarity with the local legal system.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of three years of experience as a certified member of the Iranian Bar Association. This experience should include direct involvement in legal practice, particularly in areas relevant to refugee law and human rights. Candidates should have a proven track record of handling legal cases, providing legal advice, and representing clients in various legal settings. Experience working with vulnerable populations, such as refugees and asylum seekers, is highly desirable.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English is required for this position, as it is essential for communication with UNHCR and understanding legal documents. While proficiency in Persian (Farsi) is likely assumed given the location, additional languages that may be beneficial include Arabic, particularly for engaging with Afghan and Iraqi refugees, as well as any other languages spoken by the refugee community in Iran.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified under the UNOPS LICA8 category and is not home-based. The target start date for the role is January 1, 2026, and the application deadline is January 11, 202

• The position is full-time and involves direct engagement with refugee communities, requiring a commitment to uphold the values of the United Nations. Candidates should be aware that shortlisted applicants may be required to undergo a test and/or interview as part of the selection process. It is important to note that late applications will not be accepted.