Bilingual Detention Project Paralegal — Immigration Relief

National Immigrant Justice Center; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

The National Immigrant Justice Center is seeking a detention project paralegal in Chicago to support detention intake, case screening, and filing activities for detained non-citizens. This role requires strong legal research and writing skills, and the ability to work with multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.

You will conduct country-conditions research, prepare affidavits, and assist attorneys in assembling filings, while coordinating with staff and pro bono attorneys.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree with demonstrated experience working with immigrants, refugees and/or asylum seekers.
• Regular Spanish communication with clients (spoken and written).
• Excellent writing, editing, organizational and computer skills.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently under strict deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Detention intake, case screening and case support duties.
• Conduct intake interviews with detained non-citizens and family members.
• Perform legal and country-conditions research to assess claims.
• Staff weekly phone intake hotline and respond to voicemails.
• Prepare case acceptance packets and closing letters for attorneys.
• Prepare immigration filings with attorneys and gather supporting documents.
• Assist attorneys in pre-hearing statements and trainings.
• Organize and scan closed case files and manage mail from ICE custody.

Skills

Legal research

Spanish language

Writing

Multitasking

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

The National Immigrant Justice Center is seeking a detention project paralegal in Chicago to support detention intake, case screening, and filing activities for detained non-citizens. This role requires strong legal research and writing skills, and the ability to work with multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.

You will conduct country-conditions research, prepare affidavits, and assist attorneys in assembling filings, while coordinating with staff and pro bono attorneys.