ProBAR - ICH Legal Assistant TX-CA

The American Bar Association (ABA) was founded on a commitment to advance the rule of law in the United States and beyond by providing practical resources for legal professionals, conducting law school accreditation, developing model ethics codes and more. Today, the ABA remains a member-based organization that works to ensure access to justice for all, a fair legal process, and respect for the rule of law at home and across the globe.

The ABA is committed to service and refining the standards that guide the legal profession. ABA staff are provided multiple types of continuing education and career development opportunities. Your work will help eliminate bias, enhance diversity, and advance the rule of law throughout the US and around the world.

The ABA recognizes the value staff contribute to our success through a generous benefits package that protects their health and their financial security.  The ABA’s wide array of benefit offerings include 401(k), medical, dental, vision, flexible spending accounts, health spending accounts, supplemental life and disability insurance, prepaid legal programs, and a complimentary membership to the American Bar Association, which offers additional benefits.

Flexible/hybrid work arrangements may be available for residents of CA, DC, IL, IN, IA, MD, MI, MN, TX, VA, and WI.  Residency requirements may apply. ABA employees are eligible to apply for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF). 
 

The Legal Assistant provides administrative and legal support to the office, such as preparation of routine reports, translating documents, responding to e-mails and information requests, preparing court exhibits for attorneys or accredited representatives, and case file organization.

Through our Immigration Court Helpdesk Program (ICH), a national program funded and overseen by the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR), ProBAR provides legal orientation services for pro se respondents with pending removal proceedings in the Rio Grande Valley. This includes individuals with cases before the Harlingen Immigration Court, as well as individuals in the community who are not currently in proceedings.

The Organization

ProBAR empowers immigrants through high-quality legal information, representation, and connections to services. ProBAR serves immigrants in the Rio Grande Valley and Houston regions with a particular focus on the legal needs of adults and unaccompanied children in federal custody. Founded in 1989 as a project of the American Bar Association, ProBAR’s primary office is located in Harlingen, TX with a field office in Houston, TX. For more information about ProBAR, please visit our website: https://abaprobar.org/

Job Summary / General Purpose of Job

Accountable for providing administrative and legal support to the office, such as typing, filing, preparation of routine reports, translating documents, scheduling appointments, answering, and screening phone calls, respond to e-mails & information requests, preparing court exhibits for attorneys or accredited representative, and case file organization as needed. This position will require regular involvement with individuals living in difficult circumstances and who may have experienced trauma.

Essential Job Functions and Responsibilities (listed in order of importance and/or time spent)

• Answers phone calls and screens callers to give appropriate information, referral, or assignment on the database.
• Responsible for the data entry of all services provided under the Legal Orientation Program.
• Provides administrative support and assistance to assigned legal staff. Prepares legal filings, and documents (e.g., immigration applications, correspondence, translations, etc.) as directed. Enters case activity data and maintains the data integrity of the case management systems.
• Assists with referral of clients to pro bono counsel as directed. Conducts and assists with coordination and tracking of other legal services, as necessary.
• Accesses, processes, and ensures the confidentiality and control of client information.
• Performs other related duties as required.

Required Education, Qualifications, Experience

• Possession of a high school diploma or GED.
• One year experience using legal terminology, legal document formatting, and assisting with court filings.
• Fluent in English and Spanish in written and spoken forms.
• Intermediate proficiency with online research and Microsoft Office products (Word, Excel, OneDrive, teams)
• Must be familiar with conducting virtual meetings, training, and observations on software such as Zoom, Teams, etc.
• Must have reliable internet and phone connection.
• Must be able to pick up on client verbal and non-verbal cues.
• Must have reliable transportation to travel between office and off-site work locations.
• This position requires the ability to travel to and enter detention facilities. In accordance with the federal policies and contractor funding requirements, clearance of federal background checks will be required for this position.

Preferred Education, Qualifications, Experience

• Possession of an associate’s or higher degree from an accredited U.S. institution in paralegal studies, criminal justice, political science, or related field and 1 year work experience.
• Prior work experience with children, particularly from Central America and including Indigenous language- speaking populations.
• Prior volunteer, community, or work experience regarding immigration or detention.
• Prior non-profit experience, particularly involving immigration detention.

Physical Requirements

Typical office setting with frequent visits to immigration detention facilities and immigration court. Continuously operates a computer and other office machinery, such as telephone, copy machine, and computer printer.

Travel

As a normal course of business, this job will typically require travel of less than 15% of the time.

The Benefits and Incentives Offered

• Medical and prescription insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Voluntary life insurance
• Short- and long-term disability insurance
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Prepaid Legal Plan
• 401 (k)
• Paid company holidays
• Personal time off
• Vacation time off
• PSLF participant
• Sign on bonus offered*
• Relocation Stipend offered for in state and out of state relocation*

*Restrictions apply. Availability is subject to grant funding and may periodically change.

The Location

ProBAR’s primary location is in the Rio Grande Valley, a thriving region that boasts a rich culture, affordable cost of living, subtropical climate, and beautiful natural areas to enjoy. Recent growth has brought the RGV unprecedented investments in higher education and scientific research. Three local airports connect RGV residents to destinations around the country while Mexico is only a short drive away. The region’s delicious food, world-class nature parks, and the beaches of South Padre Island provide ample opportunities to relax and recharge!

Our Houston field office is located in the Uptown District, that showcases the vibrant urban lifestyle in the heart of Houston. The Uptown District is home to The Galleria, Texas’ largest shopping center. In addition to being a pedestrian friendly city, you can get around with ease on the MetroRapid Silver Line.

The Application Process

Submit an online application including your cover letter and resume.

The Salary

The starting hiring range for this position is $37,674.00 - $43,290.00 based on relevant experience and education.