Paralegal

Catholic Charities Of Central New Mexico•Albuquerque, NM

11d

About The Position

The Paralegal provides administrative, case management, and case preparation support for the Center for Immigration & Citizenship Legal Assistance (CICLA). The role supports immigration legal services through client intake, information gathering, document collection, file maintenance, immigration form preparation, case tracking, and client communications. The Paralegal works under the supervision of DOJ Accredited Representatives and follows agency policies, ethical standards, and DOJ Recognition & Accreditation Program requirements. The position helps immigrant individuals and families access legal services by providing organized, compassionate, and culturally responsive support in alignment with Catholic Charities’ mission and values. It also supports program reporting, grant documentation, legal clinics, citizenship workshops, community outreach, and educational activities. Legal questions, eligibility determinations, requests for legal advice, and case strategy decisions must be referred to authorized practitioners.

Requirements

High School Diploma or GED required.
Bilingual English/Spanish.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and case management databases required.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and manage sensitive client information.
Ability to pass a comprehensive background check.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, including the ability to manage multiple cases and deadlines.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills and commitment to exceptional client service.
Ability to work effectively with diverse populations, including immigrants, refugees, and vulnerable communities.
Collaborative approach, sound judgment, and ability to maintain confidentiality.
Knowledge of case management, records maintenance, and document preparation practices.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while maintaining accuracy and professionalism.
Commitment to Catholic Charities’ mission and to serving the community with dignity and respect.

Nice To Haves

At least two years of experience in immigration legal services, legal support, case management, human services, or a related field; listed as preferred.
Experience preparing immigration applications and supporting documentation.
Experience working with immigrant, refugee, and vulnerable populations.
Associate Degree in Paralegal Studies, Legal Studies, Human Services, Social Services, or a related field.
Paralegal Certificate.
Equivalent combinations of education, training, and experience may be considered.

Responsibilities

Conduct client intake interviews and gather information for immigration matters.
Assist clients with intake questionnaires and collection of required documentation.
Communicate with clients about appointments, documentation requests, and authorized case updates.
Schedule consultations, follow-up appointments, and client meetings.
Prepare draft immigration forms, application packets, and supporting documentation for practitioner review.
Draft correspondence, affidavits, declarations, cover letters, and other supporting documents.
Organize and assemble filing packets and supporting evidence.
Maintain accurate case notes and documentation in the agency’s case management system.
Create, organize, and maintain electronic and physical client files.
Monitor filing deadlines, biometrics appointments, interviews, Requests for Evidence, and other case milestones.
Track case progress and follow up on pending matters in a timely manner.
Receive, review, and process incoming client correspondence and government notices.
Refer matters requiring legal analysis, legal questions, eligibility determinations, requests for legal advice, and case strategy decisions to a DOJ Accredited Representative or other authorized practitioner.
Assist with program reporting, outcome tracking, data collection, and grant reporting requirements.
Support legal clinics, citizenship workshops, community outreach events, and educational activities.
Maintain client confidentiality and comply with agency policies and ethical standards.
Interact professionally and with cultural sensitivity with clients, staff, volunteers, partners, and the public.
Promote Catholic Charities’ mission, vision, and values in daily work.
Perform other duties as assigned.