Legal Clerk

GMHC•New York, NY

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

Under the Supervision of an admitted attorney, the Legal Clerk (Legal Immigration) supports the provision of immigration legal services for low-income clients living with or affected by HIV. Working under the supervision of licensed attorneys, this position assists with client intake, legal documentation, case preparation, and program support activities that help ensure clients receive timely and culturally responsive legal services. The Legal Clerk contributes to GMHC’s mission by supporting access to justice through trauma-informed and culturally competent legal services tailored to the needs of GMHC’s client population. The Legal Clerk will work as part of an integrated model of care that centers client autonomy, encourages cross-departmental collaboration, and affirms the dignity and rights of individuals living with or affected by HIV.

Requirements

Demonstrated interest in immigration law, public interest law, or legal services for underserved communities.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively with clients, colleagues, and community partners.
Ability to manage multiple tasks, maintain organized case documentation, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced service environment.
Demonstrated cultural competency in working with diverse populations, including LGBTQ+ individuals, low-income communities, immigrants, racial minorities, and people living with disabilities.
Fluency in both English and Spanish sufficient to meet the linguistic needs of GMHC’s client population.
Currently enrolled in a Juris Doctor (J.D.) Program at an accredited law school.
Coursework or academic concentration related to immigration law, human rights law, or public interest law.
Microsoft Office and Excel Proficiency
Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including:
Data tracking and analysis for case management and program performance.
Creating and maintaining spreadsheets to monitor client progress and service deliverables.
Using formulas, pivot tables, and data validation tools to ensure documentation accuracy,
Basic proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including:
Outlook for email communications, calendar coordination, and client scheduling.
Word for drafting legal documentation, formal correspondence, and grant-related reporting.
PowerPoint for preparing outreach, training, or public education presentations.
Case Management Systems and Data Entry
Experience using electronic case management or client documentation systems such as Clio, TREAT, AWARDS, AIRS, eCOMPAS, or similar platforms.
Immigration Case Tracking Systems
Familiarity with or ability to learn immigration-related case tracking tools and online government portals, including:
USCIS Case Status Online.
EOIR (ECAS/Portal) systems.
DHS or Department of State case status tools
Ability to retrieve and document case updates and government communications to support legal case preparation.
Documentation, Compliance, and Confidentiality
Strong documentation practices to maintain accurate case records, service notes, and supporting documentation.
Ability to follow established protocols related to client confidentiality, HIPAA requirements, and organizational documentation standards.
Attention to detail in maintaining records that support program reporting, compliance requirements, and audit readiness.

Nice To Haves

Prior internship, volunteer experience, or coursework related to immigration law or legal services.
Experience working with nonprofit organizations, community-based service providers, or legal clinics serving vulnerable populations.
Experience supporting immigration filings such as asylum, naturalization, adjustment of status, or employment authorization applications.
Familiarity with trauma-informed approaches to legal services.
Knowledge of interdisciplinary service models that integrate legal, medical, and social services to support holistic client care.

Responsibilities

Assist with conducting client intake and legal needs assessments under the supervision of licensed attorneys.
Support the preparation of immigration filings and related documentation, including applications for asylum, employment authorization, naturalization, adjustment of status, and other immigration matters as appropriate.
Provide pro se assistance to clients on routine immigration matters under attorney supervision.
Assist with preparing documentation and supporting materials for immigration filings and case records.
Provide client-centered referrals and follow-up support to help ensure continuity of care and access to appropriate services.
Support the preparation and delivery of legal education and outreach presentations for clients and community members regarding immigration rights and available legal services.
Assist with outreach activities and coordination with community-based health and human service providers to facilitate referrals and service access.
Support walk-in clients and assist with scheduling and managing immigration-related appointments.
Maintain accurate and timely records of client services, case documentation, and service notes using internal databases and case management systems.
Assist in ensuring client files are complete and documentation meets funder and program reporting requirements.
Support the preparation of internal reports and data tracking related to program deliverables and service outcomes.
Contribute to ongoing data quality and documentation practices to help maintain program compliance and audit readiness.
Collaborate with legal and non-legal staff across programs to support coordinated client services.
Participate in team meetings, case discussions, and professional development opportunities to support learning and program operations.