Legal Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a prominent international humanitarian non-governmental organization (INGO) founded in 1933 at the behest of Albert Einstein. The IRC operates in over 40 countries and 29 cities across the United States, focusing on responding to the world's most severe humanitarian crises. The organization aims to restore health, safety, education, economic wellbeing, and empowerment to individuals affected by conflict and disaster. With a mission to deliver lasting impact, the IRC helps millions regain their dignity and hope, making it a significant force for humanity. The IRC employs a diverse workforce dedicated to positively impacting the lives of people worldwide, emphasizing solutions-driven approaches and passionate change-making.

Job Overview:
The Legal Assistant position within the IRC's immigration legal services program is designed to support legal practitioners in providing essential legal representation and advice to immigrants and their families. This role is crucial in helping clients navigate the complexities of immigration processes, including naturalization, adjustment of status, and family reunification. The Legal Assistant will work directly with clients to gather necessary documentation, assist in completing applications, and respond to inquiries regarding case statuses. This position is part-time, requiring 20-22.5 hours per week over a 12-month term, with the possibility of extension based on funding availability. The preferred working schedule is either Monday to Friday from 9 AM to 1 PM or Tuesday through Thursday from 9 AM to 5 PM. The role demands a commitment to maintaining client confidentiality and adhering to ethical practices as outlined in the IRC’s Immigration Program Policies Manual.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Legal Assistant will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including but not limited to: providing clients with information about immigration benefits available through USCIS, assisting clients in gathering necessary documents, and helping them complete applications. The role also involves responding to client inquiries regarding case statuses and submitting inquiries to USCIS and/or the Department of State (DOS). The Legal Assistant will process correspondence from USCIS and DOS, notify clients, assist in preparing responses to notices or evidence requests, and follow up with relevant parties. Maintaining accurate physical and electronic files, detailed case notes, and timely data entry is essential. The Legal Assistant will also represent the IRC in communications with clients, community members, and partners, manage phone calls and emails, schedule appointments, support events, and conduct outreach for legal services. Additionally, the role may involve pursuing Department of Justice accreditation, contingent upon program needs and budget availability.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Legal Assistant position must possess a Bachelor’s degree or relevant work experience. They should demonstrate success in working and communicating effectively in multicultural environments, particularly with Limited English Proficient populations. The ability to work effectively in a team setting while also taking independent initiative is crucial. Strong organizational skills and excellent attention to detail are required, along with proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook) and comfort with online software and programs. Excellent communication skills in written and spoken English are mandatory, while proficiency in Spanish is strongly preferred. A demonstrated commitment to immigrant rights, social justice, and/or human rights through work experience, volunteer service, or educational activities is also essential.

Educational Background:
The position requires a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent relevant work experience. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate possesses the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively assist clients in navigating the immigration process and to understand the legal frameworks involved.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have previous experience in immigration, legal, or social services, which is strongly preferred. Familiarity with immigration software and experience in data entry and management are considered advantageous. Additionally, experience in community-based outreach or work promoting immigrant rights will be beneficial for this role.

Languages:
Proficiency in written and spoken English is required for this position. Additionally, proficiency in Spanish is strongly preferred, as it will enhance communication with a broader range of clients and improve service delivery.

Additional Notes:
This is a limited-term, part-time position requiring 20-22.5 hours per week for a duration of 12 months, with the possibility of extension based on funding. The preferred schedule is either Monday to Friday from 9 AM to 1 PM or Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9 AM to 5 PM. The compensation for this role is set at a pay rate of $23.00 per hour. The working environment is primarily a standard office setting, with occasional opportunities for community outreach and participation in legal assistance events. The role may also require occasional weekend and/or evening work. The IRC offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid time off, medical, dental, and vision insurance, a retirement savings plan, and an Employee Assistance Program. The IRC is committed to equal opportunity employment and considers all applicants based on merit without regard to race, sex, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.