IMMIGRATION UNIT PARALEGAL - BILINGUAL SPANISH -AFSCME 3696 (OFFICE OF THE PUBLIC DEFENDER)

Cook County • Chicago, IL

5d • $46,267 • Hybrid

About The Position

Under the supervision of the Immigration Unit Attorney Supervisor, provides case-specific advice to Assistant Public Defenders representing noncitizen clients, as required by the Supreme Court's decision in Padilla v. Kentucky. Supports the Unit's Padilla attorney's work and contemplated direct representation work through the organization of documents, the monitoring of deadlines and the management of checklists. Maintains, indexes and files documents for record keeping purposes. Organizes and maintains documents in paper and in office case management system. Maintains hotline and responds to communications from individuals seeking immigration unit representation. Works closely with mitigation specialists; case workers; mental health professionals; and community advocate, when appropriate. Performs other Immigration unit duties as assigned. This position will work solely on immigration related functions.

Requirements

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with an Associate’s degree.
• Two (2) years’ full-time work experience as a Paralegal.
• Must communicate in Spanish (both in verbal and written formats).
• Successful completion of a certified paralegal training program accredited by the American Bar Association.
• At the time of the interview, candidates may be required to complete an exercise demonstrating Spanish translation proficiency level.
• Extensive knowledge and use of legal research databases.
• Thorough knowledge of immigration and/or criminal law.
• General knowledge of record keeping and report preparation methods, practices and procedures.
• Strong skills utilizing Microsoft Word, Excel and Lexis-Nexis software and/or the latest software used for legal research.
• Skill conducting legal research methods utilizing both paper and electronic resources.
• Skill interviewing, obtaining facts and evaluating relevant information from clients and their families.
• Strong database management skills.
• Ability to clearly articulate through written documents concise analysis of assigned case material.
• Ability to communicate effectively with tact and courtesy and to conduct oneself in a professional manner.
• Ability to be able to work on multiple projects under tight deadlines.
• Ability to organize and prioritize caseloads, calendar, and work assignments.
• Ability to gather information and communicate Office procedures.
• Ability to work independently.
• Ability to identify relevant judicial decisions, statutes, and other pertinent material.
• Detail-oriented with the ability to multi-task.
• Strong organizational skills.
• Commitment to maintaining confidentiality of attorney-client relationship.
• Excellent oral communication and writing skills.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship.

Responsibilities

• Provides case-specific advice to Assistant Public Defenders representing noncitizen clients.
• Supports the Unit's Padilla attorney's work and contemplated direct representation work through the organization of documents, the monitoring of deadlines and the management of checklists.
• Maintains, indexes and files documents for record keeping purposes.
• Organizes and maintains documents in paper and in office case management system.
• Maintains hotline and responds to communications from individuals seeking immigration unit representation.
• Works closely with mitigation specialists; case workers; mental health professionals; and community advocate, when appropriate.
• Performs other Immigration unit duties as assigned.
• Works solely on immigration related functions.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, and Vision
• Basic Term Life Insurance
• Pension Plan
• Deferred Compensation Program
• Employee Assistance Program
• Paid Holidays, Vacation, and Sick Time
• Voluntary Benefits
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF)
• Hybrid work environment which allows employees telecommuting and flexible scheduling options.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree