Legal Assistant, Project Corazon

We are seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented Legal Assistant to join our Project Corazon team. The Legal Assistant will play a crucial role in supporting our attorney and staff in providing high-quality services to our clients. This position offers an exciting opportunity to make a difference in the lives of vulnerable individuals and contribute to meaningful legal work.

Specific job responsibilities will vary over time and may include:

Research & Document Preparation

• Assist in preparation of engagement letters, immigration applications, motions, and other legal documents necessary for client representation.
• Review and edit documents for accuracy and completeness.
• Conduct thorough research to gather relevant information, including personal backgrounds, supporting documentation, and additional evidence needed for client cases.
• Organize and maintain detailed case files with all necessary information and evidence.

Client Communication & Support

• Act as the primary point of contact for clients, answering inquiries and providing regular updates on case progress.
• Coordinate and schedule client interviews to collect essential information and documentation.
• Assist attorneys during client meetings and hearings, providing administrative and logistical support.
• Help develop educational materials and resources to inform clients and community members about their legal rights and processes.

Bilingual Communication & Document Review:

• Utilize bilingual proficiency in Spanish and English to assist with translating client documents and communications.
• Provide interpretation services for attorneys and staff as needed, ensuring accurate communication with clients.
• Review applications and other legal documents with clients in Spanish to ensure understanding and accuracy.

Coordination & Collaboration:

• Manage volunteer databases, including orienting and assigning volunteers to specific tasks and tracking their assignments.
• Collaborate with partner organizations and volunteers to enhance the legal services offered by Project Corazon.
• Work closely with attorneys, paralegals, and support staff to ensure efficiency and effectiveness in case management.
• Assist with record-keeping, case tracking, and maintaining organized documentation.
• Attend meetings with clients, partners, and government agencies, taking detailed notes and assisting with follow-up actions.
• Support event planning and execution, including logistics and coordination.

REQUIREMENTS:

The ideal candidate will have top-notch interpersonal skills, judgment, and the ability to work and thrive in a fast-paced environment. We need someone who can work independently with a strong sense of urgency and take initiative to identify and resolve challenges. Must have access to a quiet workspace (home office or other space) with high-speed internet and the ability to take calls and/or video conferences during working hours.

Required qualifications include:

• Bilingual in English and Spanish
• Must be located in the Rio Grande Valley region
• Must have a car and a valid U.S. driver's license and be willing to travel to immigration detention centers, shelters, community spaces, and other locations in the Rio Grande Valley and Laredo as needed. (gas/mileage reimbursed by L4GG)
• Be able to pass a background check in order to obtain ICE clearance to enter immigration detention centers.
• Flexible and responsive to changes in immigration law and policy, with a strong passion for immigrants' rights and social justice.
• Ability to work autonomously as well as collaborate and work well with a team
• Exceptionally strong written and verbal communication skills
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Proficient in using Google tools, Adobe, Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint for document preparation and case management.
• Experience using Mac computers
• Exceptional technology comfort and competence including willingness to embrace new tools and self-train using provided resources as needed
• Consistent attention to detail
• Strong ability to prioritize, meet deadlines, and escalate issues as appropriate

Desired qualifications include:

• Experience with any or all of the following digital tools: Airtable, Asana, GrooveHQ, Slack