Paralegal

Description

ORGANIZATIONAL PROFILE

Ayuda is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing direct legal, social and language access services, education, and outreach to low-income immigrants in the Washington, DC metropolitan area. Since 1973, Ayuda has provided critical services on a wide range of issues, in the process acquiring nationally recognized expertise in several fields including immigration law, language access, domestic violence and human trafficking. Ayuda has office locations in Washington, DC, Silver Spring, MD and Fairfax, VA. 

WHY YOU WANT THIS PARALEGAL POSITION?

Because, just like everyone at Ayuda, you believe:

· In seeing communities where all immigrants succeed and thrive in the United States.

· In the overall success of our organization and all our programs.

· That families should be healthy and safe from harm.

· That all people should have access to professional, honest, and ethical services, regardless of ability to pay or status in this country.

· That diversity and equality make this country better.

WHAT WILL THIS PARALEGAL JOB ENTAIL?

Assist attorneys in representing clients seeking immigration relief, including: 

· Meet with clients to prepare declarations, forms, and other evidence under attorney supervision.

· Develop expertise with Ayuda's case management system, LegalServer, and assist with grant reports as well as training new staff members on using the system consistent with Ayuda's policies and procedures.

· When requested, accompany clients for critical appointments and appearances that do not require an attorney.

Assist with Ayuda’s efforts to help newly-arrived migrants by coordinating efforts between attorneys and pro bono partners, communicating with local nonprofits regarding emerging needs, and maintaining data and case stories needed for grant deliverables. 

Requirements

HOW DO YOU KNOW IF YOU CAN DO THIS PARALEGAL JOB?

Eligibility: Must be legally able to work in the United States and maintain proper work authorization throughout employment. Must be able to meet the physical requirements of the position presented in a general office environment. Satisfactory results from a background check to include criminal history and a search of the employee’s name against a national registry of sex offenders. 

Education/Experience/Skills:

· Experience working with low-income immigrants, even on a volunteer basis, required.

· One year of experience working as a legal assistant or paralegal at an immigration legal services provider serving low-income immigrants preferred. 

· Desire to work with interdisciplinary team in representing the best interest of the client.

· Fluent in English and Spanish. 

· Ability to travel to Ayuda offices in DC or Maryland, as well as the ability to meet with arriving migrants at respite centers or shelters, as needed. 

· Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

· Outstanding interpersonal skills.

· Ability to be flexible, excellent time-management and organizational skills.

· Adaptable to shifting priorities.

· Demonstrated capacity to work independently and collaboratively.

SALARY AND BENEFITS: 

The anticipated salary for this position is $50,000 - $58,000 , commensurate with experience. We are proud of the benefits we can offer that include: 

· Platinum-level medical insurance plan 100% employer-paid 

· Dental and vision insurance 100% employer paid 

· Long-term disability insurance 100% employer paid 

· Life and AD&D insurance 100% employer paid 

· Pre-tax 401(k) with Employer match on first 3% of salary 

· 21 days per year until year 3, 27 per year in years 3-7 and 33 days per year after 7 years employment 

· New employees begin with 8 days of Health & Wellness (sick) leave and accrue an additional 5 hours per pay period plus emergency medical leave up to 12 weeks per year 

· 12 weeks paid parental leave/family leave 

· 27 days paid holidays and staff wellness days, including Winter Break the last week of the year 

· Job-related professional development fees (including annual state bar dues and professional memberships) 

· Flexible work schedules 

This position is exempt for overtime purposes. 

Employees with federal student loan debt may be eligible to apply for Public Service Loan Forgiveness through the Department of Education.  For more information, go to https://myfedloan.org/borrowers/special-programs/pslf.   

TO APPLY:

Please apply with resume and cover letter.  Writing samples may be requested.

Applications will be considered on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Apply early for full consideration. No phone calls, please.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYMENT STATEMENT:

Ayuda is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability. 

We believe that a diversity of experiences, opinions, and backgrounds is integral to achieving our mission and vision. We celebrate diversity and seek to leverage the passion, energy, and ideas of a culturally diverse team.

Salary : $50,000 - $58,000