Staff Attorney

at  YMCA of Greater Houston

YMCA International Services is a unique branch of the Y of Greater Houston 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 two Spanish-speaking attorneys to provide direct representation to non-citizens seeking relief from removal before the EOIR detained immigration court(s).

REQUIREMENTS

• J.D. from ABA certified law school or international equivalent.
• State bar membership in good standing.
• Candidate must be fluent in Spanish and English.
• Experience in immigration law is preferred, preference given to candidates with litigation experience.
• Commitment to serving immigrants and sensitivity to the needs of low-income, culturally diverse clients.
• 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 is required for this position.

• Conduct comprehensive legal screenings and needs assessments of potential clients and evaluate their legal case.
• Provide direct representation to adults detained with the Department of Homeland Security. Prepare and file relief applications with EOIR Immigration Court(s) and/or with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
• Representation may include appointment under the National Qualified Representative Program (NQRP) and work with individuals deemed mentally incompetent.
• Manage annual caseload of 30-40 cases; cases may include complex “immigration” issues.
• Maintain client files in good order, including regular data entry and funder required reports.
• Perform legal research and provide advice on legal rights and remedies available to clients.
• Participate in trainings, calls and meetings with funders and technical assistance providers to stay up-to-date with new legal and programmatic developments.
• 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.
• 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.
• Position requires successful clearance of a background check.