ProBAR empowers immigrants through high-quality legal education, representation, and connections to services. ProBAR serves immigrants in the Rio Grande Valley border region 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 office is located in Harlingen, TX. For more information about ProBAR, please visit our website: https://ambar.org/probar
Job Summary/ General Purpose of Job
Accountable for providing group orientations, individual orientations and workshops to detained immigrants through the Legal Orientation Program (LOP) under the supervision of an attorney or accredited representative. Paralegal will also oversee their own caseload of pro se detainees that need assistance.
Essential Job Functions and Responsibilities (listed in order of importance and/or time spent)
• Provides group orientations, individual orientations and workshops to detained individuals at detention centers, under the supervision/clearance of an attorney, and as coordinated with a Senior Paralegal.
• Provides pro se assistance to detained individuals including preparing applications for relief in immigration court, translation of documents and country conditions research.
• Assists with referral of clients to pro bono counsel as directed. Conducts and assists with coordination and tracking of other legal services as necessary.
• Oversees client case files and monitors case activities and maintains the data integrity of case management systems.
• Accesses, processes, and ensures the confidentiality and control of client information.
• Answers phone calls and provide information regarding the caller’s needs.
• Must be familiar with conducting virtual meetings, training, and observations on software such as Zoom, Teams, etc.
• Performs other related duties as required.
Required Education, Qualifications, Experience
• Possession of an Associates degree from an accredited institution in paralegal studies, criminal justice, political science or related field, or two years’ experience as a paralegal.
• Fluent in English and Spanish in written and spoken forms.
• Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Office products and Google tools.
• Must be able to pick up on client verbal and non-verbal cues.
• Must have reliable transportation to travel to off-site work locations.
• Must be insurable and have an acceptable driving record.
• Must have reliable internet and phone connection.
• This position will require the ability to enter detention facilities.
Preferred Education, Qualifications, Experience
• Possession of a bachelor’s or higher degree in paralegal studies, criminal justice, political science or a related field, and one year of work experience as a paralegal.
• Possession of a current certificate of completion of an ABA-approved paralegal program.
• Prior work experience with Central America populations and including Mayan 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 at immigration detention facilities and immigration court. Continuously operates a computer and other office machinery, such as telephone, copy machine, and printer.
Extent of Travel
As a normal course of business, this job will typically require travel less than 15% of the time.
Benefits Offered
· Medical insurance
· Prescription insurance
· Dental insurance
· Vision Insurance
· Voluntary life insurance
· Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
· 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
In addition to competitive pay and employment benefits, ProBAR takes pride in taking care of its employees. There are abundant development opportunities including onsite, offsite, and online training and workshops. ProBAR has also created its own initiatives like paid time off for self-care, staff-led wellness programs, and counseling. Working for the ABA connects you to an extensive network of dedicated professionals, and ProBAR’s work at the border gives a unique perspective on immigration law.
The Location:
ProBAR is located 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!
COVID-19 Response:
ProBAR leadership has responded proactively to support the health and wellbeing of our staff and the individuals we serve. We are currently providing the majority of our legal services remotely while telecommuting. During this period of remote work, we continue to accept applications and interview for open positions. Timelines for hiring may be a bit more extended than usual so that we can ensure everyone’s safety as new staff members transition and join the team, but we encourage interested candidates to apply and begin the process today.
The Application Process:
Visit the job posting and submit an online application including your cover letter and resume.
