Case Manager, Detained Adult Program
Who We Are:
The Capital Area Immigrants’ Rights (CAIR) Coalition is the only non-profit organization in the Washington, D.C. area focused exclusively on providing legal assistance to adult and child immigrants detained by the government in the Capital Region. The Detained Adult Program (DAP) works with hundreds of adults who are detained by ICE each year, providing information, support and legal representation. We provide trauma-sensitive, person-centered services, and deeply value the autonomy of the people we work with in detention as they navigate the fundamentally inhumane immigration system.
Position Summary:
The DAP Case Manager will work closely with DAP legal staff to support the rights and well-being of detained and released immigrant clients, many of whom have mental health diagnoses, cognitive impairments, trauma backgrounds, and unmet social service needs. The primary focus of the Case Manager will be preparing for and executing safe releases of our clients from detention, assisting with clients’ transitions to the community, and providing essential case management to clients regarding basic needs such as housing, mental/medical health care, and other forms of requested advocacy on the part of both the attorney and the client. While this position focuses on engaging with clients for their non-legal needs, the Case Manager will also work alongside the legal staff to provide Social Services related documentation to the court or other governmental and non-governmental entities in support of the legal case.
General Duties and Responsibilities [1]:
Case Management:
- Support an average caseload of 10-20 clients in detention and post-release;
- Support legal staff in resolving their detained clients’ social service needs;
- Coordinate and implement post-release plans for clients, building on clients’ existing resources, strengths, and autonomy to help them with their self-identified goals;
- Competently execute safe releases from detention, and provide time-limited services to clients to support their transition to the community;
- Engage in long-term support for a small portion of non-detained clients;
- Enter all client-related notes into case management systems and maintain confidentiality.
Community Advocacy:
- Build and maintain relationships with myriad community partners including volunteer networks, organizers and service providers, both locally and nationally;
- Identify opportunities for social services networking and capacity building;
- Attending conferences, community events, and other outreach opportunities to support in professional development of the Social Services Department.
Programmatic Support:
- Along with the other Case Managers, assist in coordinating psychological and medical evaluations for DAP clients, building and maintaining professional relationships with the evaluators and supporting on identifying new opportunities for collaboration;
- Maintain and update the online social service database;
- Assist in equitable distribution of social service grants;
- Work collaboratively across a small team of social services staff to create and implement systems to improve program efficiency and service to clients;
- Assist in grant requirements such as reporting and spend-downs, to support social services funding streams;
- Create and give existing trainings on social services to colleagues within the organization.
Other Responsibilities:
- Communicate coverage needs to team and provide coverage to others during their periods of low bandwidth;
- Collaborate with other program staff to provide support outside the social services team, as needed;
- Ensure all administrative aspects of the position are carried out in an increasingly independent manner, including timekeeping, file upkeep, and database upkeep;
- Periodically provide in-court advocacy for clients alongside legal advocates, by explaining Post-Release Plans and other social-service aspects relevant to the client’s legal case;
- Provide support in the design and growth of the social services program through the creation of best practices, feedback solicitation, and staff development.
[1] This list is illustrative and not intended to be a complete classification of all job functions or tasks.
Qualifications and Experience:
- Demonstrated interest in upholding the rights and dignity of detained immigrants, particularly those with mental health diagnoses;
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and/or experience, preference for a degree in social work, counseling or related field;
- Ability to build and maintain relationships with stakeholders;
- Ability to multi-task, work in a fast-paced environment, and triage client emergencies;
- Ability to work well independently with limited supervision;
- Availability to work occasional weekend/evening hours to accommodate client needs or engage in community advocacy, within expected 35-40 hour workweek or during authorized overtime hours;
- Proficiency in Spanish and valid driver’s license;
- Strong preference for applicants with knowledge of immigration system and knowledge of local community organizations and resources;
- Preference for applicants with proficiency in Office 365 and LegalServer.
Our Work Environment
CAIR Coalition’s Detained Adult Program is a highly collaborative work environment. Each team lead works directly with a focused team, but all colleagues are interconnected through, for example, case workshops or staff-run committees.
DAP staff has been a source of expertise in the highly complex and ever-changing immigration system. They have persisted through administration changes, policy shifts, and attacks on the rights and freedoms of immigrants through project-focused cohorts that arise to address challenges or to brainstorm and implement affirmative strategies.
We center impacted people in our advocacy and media. We embrace the movement in our work while also staying focused on the practicalities we trained for, as well as where we are most useful in this movement. We grow our reach and skill set when resources permit and there is passion. We do not limit our push or dreams for this world based on the limits we know but try to imagine how to navigate around them.
We value our brain trust and are constantly finding ways to ensure that we maintain and grow, in ways that acknowledge those with expertise but also set new advocates for success.
What Else You Should Know:
Position Type
Full-time, non-exempt
Reports To
Social Services Coordinator
Timeline
Applications will be accepted and offers made on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
Salary
$50,000-$56,250
In 2018 CAIR Coalition implemented a compensation framework to be more straightforward, transparent, and provide assurance of internal equity. The compensation model we use is based on an individual's position and years of relevant work experience to avoid salary discrepancies and to reduce the risk of racial, gender, or other forms of bias affecting a candidate's salary.
Location
This position will be based at our Baltimore, MD or Washington, DC office. Due to business related travel expectations, it is recommended candidates live within 30-miles of their assigned primary office.
Telework
CAIR Coalition operates a hybrid work environment where staff are asked to work from their assigned office one day a week.
COVID-19 Vaccination:
All employees are required to be fully vaccinated and boosted against COVID-19. To be fully vaccinated means having completed the full dosages required for the type of vaccine obtained as designated by the CDC. If boosters are subsequently recommended by the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) then employees will be required to receive the booster within thirty (30) days of their eligibility to access the boosters.
Benefits
CAIR coalition’s benefits package includes:
- Free gym access located in Washington, D.C or Baltimore, MD (dependent on employee’s primary office);
- Flexible working hours after successful completion of trainings and with approval of supervisor;
- Pre-tax commuter benefits for those living in the DMV;
- Subsidized health, dental insurance, and vision insurance (CAIR Coalition pays a very high rate of the insurance package, for which we can provide additional information);
- An annual data reimbursement of $300
- life insurance valued at $50,000, as well as long and short term disability;
- the option to set up a Flexible Spending Account; and
- the option to set up a 403(b) account (the equivalent of a 401(k) account for non-profits) which the organization has the option, for all employees on an annual basis, to match at a certain percentage after one year of continuous employment.
Paid time off includes:
- 23 personal days per calendar year
- Up to 20 days of sick time per calendar year
- 7 hours of volunteer time
- Federal holidays
- Winter break closure
- 12 weeks of parental leave
How to Apply:
Submit your resume, a cover letter that explains your interest in this role, and a writing sample with your Paylocity application.
EEO Statement
Capital Area Immigrants’ Rights (CAIR) Coalition is an equal opportunity employer. In accordance with anti-discrimination law, it is the purpose of this policy to effectuate these principles and mandates. CAIR Coalition prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. CAIR Coalition conforms to the spirit as well as to the letter of all applicable laws and regulations.
Anti-Racism Statement:
https://www.caircoalition.org/cair-coalitions-statement-becoming-anti-racist-organization
Managing Attorney, Detained Adult Program
Who We Are:
CAIR Coalition fights every day alongside immigrant children and adults who are detained and facing deportation. We provide legal and social services to immigrants in the Capital Region and beyond. The Detained Adult Program (DAP) works with hundreds of adults who are detained by ICE each year, providing information, support and legal representation. We provide trauma-sensitive, person-centered services, and deeply value the autonomy of the people we work with in detention as they navigate the fundamentally inhumane immigration system.
Position Summary:
A direct representation managing attorney in the Detained Adult Program focuses on ensuring that program staff provide excellent and efficient services to clients, implementing long-term plans for the program, providing direct legal services to immigrant adults, and supervising junior staff with a focus on professional development.
General Duties and Responsibilities [1]:
Representation:
- Provide oversight and management of significant aspects of the program in coordination with the program directors and other managers.
- Take on direct legal representation of detained clients in removal proceedings before immigration courts in Maryland, Virginia and remote locations (virtually or in-person), USCIS, ICE and local federal or state courts. This includes representation in cases such as: Bond, Asylum, Withholding of Removal, Protection under the Convention Against Torture, Special Immigrant Juvenile Status, U-Visas, T-Visas, and Cancellation of Removal, as well as appeals and other corollary litigation.
- Ensure that the program is kept abreast of new developments in the law and that junior staff are adequality trained on the law.
- Provide oversight and mentoring to staff and senior attorneys and paralegals on direct representation cases, including supervision and assistance of (i) case strategy, (ii) trial preparation, and (iii) case load management.
- Provide expert mentoring to outside attorneys representing detained immigrants on a pro bono basis.
- Manage a caseload of in-house direct representation and pro bono mentorship cases to ensure timely completion and submission of all filings, forms, etc.
- Prepare Post Release Plans and social service plans, in coordination with social services staff.
- Research, engage, and prepare experts on health, behavioral health, and country conditions.
Detention Facility Visits:
- Conduct oversight of visits to government detention facilities.
- Conduct individual intakes and client meetings, including trial preparation, with immigrants at the detention facilities, and support and supervise junior staff in the same. Provide and supervise junior staff in providing necessary follow-up after intakes to evaluate eligibility for relief, including performing research, securing criminal/juvenile delinquency records and obtaining additional information from family and community members.
Organizational Services:
- Work with program management to set long-term program plans.
- Coordinate with all internal DAP Programs (e.g., LOP, social services) to ensure all programs are kept abreast of developments and clients.
- Interface with leadership of other CAIR Coalition programs to ensure cross-program information and strategy sharing.
- Oversee the inputting and accuracy of data and case information into shared databases in a timely fashion for program staff.
- Assist other program staff in completion of their workload during high-work/low-bandwidth periods.
- Take part in stakeholder relationship activities, including in-person and remote meetings with community groups, governmental bodies and representatives, detention center staff, and other legal service providers.
- Lead internal CAIR Coalition committees and working groups to lend a voice to the growth and strategy of the organization.
- Undertake own administrative functions, including for casework (e.g., preparation of all aspects of filings). CAIR Coalition attorneys do not have dedicated paralegals for assistance on all cases and non-attorney staff time is also dedicated to other programmatic responsibilities.
[1] This list is illustrative and not intended to be a complete classification of all job functions or tasks.
Our Work Environment
CAIR Coalition’s Detained Adult Program is a highly collaborative work environment. Each team lead works directly with a focused team, but all colleagues are interconnected through, for case workshopping or staff-run committees.
DAP staff has been a source of expertise in the highly complex and ever-changing immigration system. They have persisted through administration changes, policy shifts, and attacks on the rights and freedoms of immigrants through project-focused cohorts that arise to address challenges or to brainstorm and implement affirmative strategies.
We center impacted people in our advocacy and media. We embrace the movement in our work while also staying focused on the practicalities we trained for, as well as where we are most useful in this movement. We grow our reach and skill set when resources permit and there is passion. We do not limit our push or dreams for this world based on the limits we know but try to imagine how to navigate around them.
We value our brain trust and are constantly finding ways to ensure that we maintain and grow, in ways that acknowledge those with expertise but also sets up new advocates for success.
Competencies Required:
Legal Proficiency
The employee demonstrates a mastery of immigration law and legal procedure and can deploy innovative and thoughtful approaches to assisting clients. The employee stays abreast of developments in the law and ensures that their supervisees are trained in new developments.
Client and Programmatic Proficiency
The employee proficiently helps to manage all programmatic obligations. The employee proficiently manages their caseloads and the caseloads of the staff they supervise. The employee skillfully supervises their staff and ensures that staff are in a position to grow professionally.
Administrative
The employee ensures that all administrative aspects of their position (and their supervisees’ positions), attendant to the provision of services to clients, are carried out without managerial intervention, including timekeeping, file upkeep, database upkeep, etc.
Qualifications Required:
- JD and active license to practice law;
- Relevant experience in immigration law, including removal defense;
- Written and oral Spanish proficiency strongly preferred;
- Relevant experience in supervision and project management.
- It is expected that the candidate will need to travel for work-related business. As a result, the candidate must possess a valid driver's license and be comfortable operating a vehicle upon hiring. This role requires travel, but qualified individuals with disabilities may be accommodated in a reasonable manner under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
What Else You Should Know:
Position Type
Full-time, exempt
Supervisory Responsibility
Responsible for directly supervising a limited number of staff on a direct representation team (generally senior staff and/or staff carrying out key program functions, may be attorneys, paralegals or administrative staff) and providing overall team leadership and back up support to other supervisors on the team.
Reports To
Deputy program director for the Detained Adult Program
Timeline:
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
Salary
This is a full-time exempt position. The salary range is $79,500-$109,000.
Signing Bonus
We are offering a signing bonus due to the skillset required for this position and the length of time the position has been open. A 5% sign-on bonus will be pid to the employee based on their base annual salary at the time of accepting the employment offer.
Travel
This position may require travel during the COVID-19 pandemic, in accordance with all CAIR Coalition safety protocols.
Position Location
This position will be based from the Baltimore, MD or Washington, DC office. Due to business related travel expectations, it is recommended candidates live within 30-miles of their assigned primary office.
Telework
All CAIR Coalition staff, interns, and volunteers whose positions are not fully remote are working a hybrid-work model in compliance with CAIR Coalition’s COVID-19 policies. Due to the duties and responsibilities of the Managing Attorney role, this position will follow a hybrid-work model and may be required to live within 30 miles of their assigned primary office.
COVID-19 Vaccination:
All employees are required to be fully vaccinated and boosted against COVID-19. To be fully vaccinated means having completed the full dosages required for the type of vaccine obtained as designated by the CDC. If boosters are subsequently recommended by the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) then employees will be required to receive the booster within thirty (30) days of their eligibility to access the boosters.
Benefits:
- CAIR coalition’s benefits package includes:
- Free gym access located in Washington, D.C. and/or Baltimore, MD;
- Flexible working hours after successful completion of trainings and with approval of supervisor;
- Pre-tax commuter benefits for those living in the DMV;
- Subsidized health, dental insurance, and vision subsidized health, dental insurance, and vision insurance (CAIR Coalition pays a very high rate of the insurance package, for which we can provide additional information);
- An annual data reimbursement of $240
- life insurance valued at $50,000, as well as long and short term disability;
- the option to set up a Flexible Spending Account; and
- the option to set up a 403(b) account (the equivalent of a 401(k) account for non-profits) which the organization has the option, for all employees on an annual basis, to match at a certain percentage after one year of continuous employment.
Paid time off includes:
- 23 personal days per calendar year
- Up to 20 days of sick time per calendar year
- 7 hours of volunteer time
- Federal holidays
- Winter break closure
- 12 weeks of parental leave
How to Apply:
Submit your resume, a cover letter that explains your interest in this role, and a writing sample with your Paylocity application.
https://recruiting.paylocity.com/Recruiting/Jobs/Details/1705212
Capital Area Immigrants’ Rights (CAIR) Coalition is an equal opportunity employer. In accordance with anti-discrimination law, it is the purpose of this policy to effectuate these principles and mandates. CAIR Coalition prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. CAIR Coalition conforms to the spirit as well as to the letter of all applicable laws and regulations.
Anti-Racism Statement:
https://www.caircoalition.org/cair-coalitions-statement-becoming-anti-racist-organization
Paralegal, Detained Adult Program- Direct Representation/Legal Orientation Program
Who We Are:
The Capital Area Immigrants’ Rights (CAIR) Coalition is the only non-profit organization in the Washington, D.C. area focused exclusively on providing legal assistance to adult and child immigrants detained by the government in the Capital Region. The Detained Adult Program (DAP) works with hundreds of adults who are detained by ICE each year, providing information, support and legal representation. We provide trauma-sensitive, person-centered services, and deeply value the autonomy of the people we work with in detention as they navigate the fundamentally inhumane immigration system.
Our Work Environment
CAIR Coalition’s Detained Adult Program is a highly collaborative work environment. Each team lead works directly with a focused team, but all colleagues are interconnected through, for example, case workshopping or staff-run committees.
DAP staff has been a source of expertise in the highly complex and ever-changing immigration system. They have persisted through administration changes, policy shifts, and attacks on the rights and freedoms of immigrants through project-focused cohorts that arise to address challenges or to brainstorm and implement affirmative strategies.
We center impacted people in our advocacy and media. We embrace the movement in our work while also staying focused on the practicalities we trained for, as well as where we are most useful in this movement. We grow our reach and skill set when resources permit and there is passion. We do not limit our push or dreams for this world based on the limits we know but try to imagine how to navigate around them.
We value our brain trust and are constantly finding ways to ensure that we maintain and grow, in ways that acknowledge those with expertise but also sets up new advocates for success.
Position Summary:
The Direct Representation paralegal in the LOP Liaison role will serve as the liaison between the Legal Orientation Program (LOP) and the Direct Representation Program for individuals detained in LOP Facilities [1] who are eligible for representation under one of our direct rep contracts. [2] Approximately 50% of the role will be dedicated to the LOP-facing and systems organization tasks, while the other 50% will resemble the traditional Direct Representation Paralegal role.
[1] The Detained Adults’ Program (DAP) currently serves Farmville Detention Center in Farmville, VA and Caroline Detention Facility in Bowling Greene, VA under the LOP contract.
[2] DAP’s current representation contracts serve detained individuals who are residents of Maryland and DC and individuals found to be incompetent under the National Qualified Representative Program (NQRP). The Direct Rep Program also supports the non-contract representation of certain individuals eligible for our services under various fellowships.
Responsibilities will include:
LOP Liaison Responsibilities (Approximately 50%):
- Create and maintain systems for LOP follow-ups identified as potentially eligible for direct representation contract services, and liaise with intaking direct rep paralegals to ensure proper placement on direct rep pipeline;
- Create and maintain systems that ensure the efficient and prompt transition of in-house support from LOP & intaking paralegals to the Direct Rep Point of Contact when a case assignment is made;
- Be a source of knowledge for LOP regarding nuances of the direct rep program, and vise-versa;
- Regularly attend LOP Intake Review;
- Assist on LOP trips and take on LOP follow-ups on an as-needed basis.
Direct Representation Responsibilities (Approximately 50%):
- Support attorneys representing detained and released clients in various immigration court and administrative proceedings, including bond; asylum, withholding of removal and protection under the Convention Against Torture; cancellation and waivers; EADs; and others.
- Assist with client and witness declarations, case preparation, drafting filings, and country conditions research;
- Conduct detention facility visits and client meetings in multiple locations as needed;
- Support the detention hotline by providing coverage for hotline shifts on a rolling basis;
- Engage in administrative tasks, such as database maintenance and reporting to funders;
- Contribute to CAIR Coalition's training and advocacy efforts as required;
- Collaborate with social services staff to prepare and execute post-release and social services plans.
Other Responsibilities
- Communicate coverage needs to team and provider coverage to others during their periods of low bandwidth;
- Actively participate in the design and growth of the paralegal program through the creation of best practices, feedback solicitation, and staff development;
- Provide support in onboarding or mentoring junior staff, including seasonal supervision of undergraduate interns dependent upon departmental needs;
- Provide support on departmental administrative tasks and needs.
What Else You Should Know:
Position Type
Full-time, non-exempt
Reports To
Designated Managing Paralegal
Timeline
Applications will be accepted and offers made on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
Salary
$47,500-$54,500
In 2018 CAIR Coalition implemented a compensation framework to be more straightforward, transparent, and provide assurance of internal equity. The compensation model we use is based on an individual's position and years of relevant work experience to avoid salary discrepancies and to reduce the risk of racial, gender, or other forms of bias affecting a candidate's salary.
Location
This position will be based at our Washington, DC office. Due to business related travel expectations, it is recommended candidates live within 30-miles of their assigned primary office.
Telework
All CAIR Coalition staff, interns, and volunteers are working a hybrid-work model (in person and virtual/remote) as long as they are in compliance with CAIR Coalition's COVID-19 policies. Due to the duties and responsibilities of certain positions, certain staff members will be required to live within 30 miles of their assigned primary office.
COVID-19 Vaccination:
All employees are required to be fully vaccinated and boosted against COVID-19. To be fully vaccinated means having completed the full dosages required for the type of vaccine obtained as designated by the CDC. If boosters are subsequently recommended by the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) then employees will be required to receive the booster within thirty (30) days of their eligibility to access the boosters.
Benefits
CAIR coalition’s benefits package includes:
- Free gym access located in Washington, D.C or Baltimore, MD (dependent on employee’s primary office);
- Flexible working hours after successful completion of trainings and with approval of supervisor;
- Pre-tax commuter benefits for those living in the DMV;
- Subsidized health, dental insurance, and vision insurance (CAIR Coalition pays a very high rate of the insurance package, for which we can provide additional information);
- An annual data reimbursement of $300
- life insurance valued at $50,000, as well as long and short term disability;
- the option to set up a Flexible Spending Account; and
- the option to set up a 403(b) account (the equivalent of a 401(k) account for non-profits) which the organization has the option, for all employees on an annual basis, to match at a certain percentage after one year of continuous employment.
Paid time off includes:
- 23 personal days per calendar year
- Up to 20 days of sick time per calendar year
- 7 hours of volunteer time
- Federal holidays
- Winter break closure
- 12 weeks of parental leave
How to Apply:
Submit your resume, a cover letter that explains your interest in this role, and a writing sample with your Paylocity application. https://recruiting.paylocity.com/recruiting/jobs/Details/2059370/Capita…
EEO Statement
Capital Area Immigrants’ Rights (CAIR) Coalition is an equal opportunity employer. In accordance with anti-discrimination law, it is the purpose of this policy to effectuate these principles and mandates. CAIR Coalition prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. CAIR Coalition conforms to the spirit as well as to the letter of all applicable laws and regulations.
Anti-Racism Statement:
https://www.caircoalition.org/cair-coalitions-statement-becoming-anti-racist-organization
Requirements
Competencies Required:
- Legal Proficiency: Have a strong understanding of legal concepts for client intake and casework in both the LOP and Direct Representation programs.
- Client Proficiency: Effectively communicate legal and procedural concepts to clients with empathy and appropriately prioritize tasks and resources.
- Administrative: Execute administrative tasks independently, including intake logging and database management.
Qualifications and Experience:
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience;
- Demonstrated interest in immigrants’ rights;
- Ability to multi-task, work in a fast-paced environment, and triage client emergencies;
- Ability to work well independently with limited supervision;
- Availability to work occasional weekend/evening hours to accommodate client needs within expected 35-40 hour workweek or during authorized overtime hours;
- Proficiency in Spanish and valid driver’s license;
- Strong preference for candidates with experience in immigration law or working with individuals in detention.
- Preference for applicants with proficiency in Office 365 and LegalServer.
Direct Representation Paralegal, Detained Adult Program
Who We Are:
The Capital Area Immigrants’ Rights (CAIR) Coalition is the only non-profit organization in the Washington, D.C. area focused exclusively on providing legal assistance to adult and child immigrants detained by the government in the Capital Region. The Detained Adult Program (DAP) works with hundreds of adults who are detained by ICE each year, providing information, support and legal representation. We provide trauma-sensitive, person-centered services, and deeply value the autonomy of the people we work with in detention as they navigate the fundamentally inhumane immigration system.
Position Summary:
A paralegal on a direct representation team in the Detained Adult Program focuses on (i) working with detained people and their attorneys throughout the course of removal proceedings, including assisting with paperwork and case preparation, and (iii) supporting the program’s provision of services as a whole, including through intakes and administrative tasks such as database maintenance and reporting to funders.
General Duties and Responsibilities [1]:
Client Services:
- Supports attorneys representing detained and released clients before immigration courts in Maryland, Virginia and remote locations (virtually), USCIS, ICE and local state courts. This includes representation in the following types of cases: Bond, Asylum, Withholding of Removal, Protection under the Convention Against Torture, Special Immigrant Juvenile Status, U-Visas, T-Visas, and Cancellation of Removal. Support includes assistance in developing client and witness declarations, coordination, drafting and preparing filings, country conditions research, and input in case strategy.
- Assists in completing intakes and provides follow up after intakes to evaluate eligibility for relief from removal, including legal research, securing criminal records, and obtaining additional information from family and other community members.
- Conducts detention facility visits in Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Georgia, for intake and client meetings, and other regions as needed where people are detained.
- Assists with the staffing of the detention hotline and oversight of volunteers for jail visits, the jail hotline, or translation/interpretation volunteer work, as needed.
- Carries out administrative tasks, including database maintenance and reporting to funders.
- Actively engages in CAIR Coalition’s training and advocacy efforts, as needed.
- Interfaces with social services staff, where needed, in preparation and execution of post release and social services plans.
Organizational Services:
- Ensures the inputting and accuracy of data and case information into shared databases in a timely fashion.
- Assists other program staff in completion of their workload during high-work/low-bandwidth periods.
- Takes part in stakeholder relationship activities, including in-person and remote meetings with community groups, governmental bodies and representatives, and other legal service providers.
- Engages with internal CAIR Coalition committees and working groups to lend a voice to the growth and strategy of the organization.
[1] This list is illustrative and not intended to be a complete classification of all job functions or tasks.
How to Apply:
Submit your resume and respond to our screening questions with your Paylocity application.
Our Work Environment:
CAIR Coalition’s Detained Adult Program is a highly collaborative work environment. Each team lead works directly with a focused team, but all colleagues are interconnected through, for example, case workshops or staff-run committees such as Equity and Inclusion Committee.
DAP staff has been a source of expertise in the highly complex and ever-changing immigration system. They have persisted through administration changes, policy shifts, and attacks on the rights and freedoms of immigrants through project-focused cohorts that arise to address challenges or to brainstorm and implement affirmative strategies.
We center impacted people in our advocacy and media. We embrace the movement in our work while also staying focused on the practicalities we trained for, as well as where we are most useful in this movement. We grow our reach and skill set when resources permit and there is passion. We do not limit our push or dreams for this world based on the limits we know but try to imagine how to navigate around them.
We value our brain trust and are constantly finding ways to ensure that we maintain and grow, in ways that acknowledge those with expertise but also set up new advocates for success.
What Else You Should Know:
Position Type
Full-time, non-exempt
Reports To
Designated supervisory-level attorney such as Senior Attorney, Managing Attorney, or Managing Paralegal
Timeline
Applications will be accepted and offers made on a rolling basis until the position is filled
Salary
$47,500-$54,500
Salary is commensurate with experience per CAIR Coalition salary scale.
Location
This position will be based at our Baltimore, MD or Washington, DC office. Due to business related travel expectations, it is recommended candidates live within 30-miles of their assigned primary office.
Telework
All CAIR Coalition staff, interns, and follow a hybrid work model.
COVID-19 Vaccination:
All employees are required to be fully vaccinated and boosted against COVID-19. To be fully vaccinated means having completed the full dosages required for the type of vaccine obtained as designated by the CDC. If boosters are subsequently recommended by the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) then employees will be required to receive the booster within thirty (30) days of their eligibility to access the boosters.
Benefits:
CAIR Coalition’s benefits package includes:
- Free gym access located in Washington, DC or Baltimore, MD (dependent on employee’s primary office);
- Flexible working hours after successful completion of trainings and with approval of supervisor;
- Pre-tax commuter benefits for those living in the DMV;
- Subsidized health, dental insurance, and vision subsidized health, dental insurance, and vision insurance (CAIR Coalition pays a very high rate of the insurance package, for which we can provide additional information);
- An annual data reimbursement of $300
- Life insurance valued at $50,000, as well as long and short term disability;
- The option to set up a Flexible Spending Account; and
- The option to set up a 403(b) account (the equivalent of a 401(k) account for non-profits) which the organization has the option, for all employees on an annual basis, to match at a certain percentage after one year of continuous employment.
Paid Time Off:
- 23 personal days per calendar year
- Up to 20 days of sick time per calendar year
- 7 hours of volunteer time
- Federal holidays
- Winter break closure
- 12 weeks of parental leave
How to Apply:
Submit your resume, a cover letter that explains your interest in this role, and a writing sample with your Paylocity application. https://recruiting.paylocity.com/recruiting/jobs/Details/2063674/Capital-Area-Immigrants-Rights-Coalition/Direct-Representation-Paralegal-Detained-Adult-Program
EEO Statement:
Capital Area Immigrants’ Rights (CAIR) Coalition is an equal opportunity employer. In accordance with anti-discrimination law, it is the purpose of this policy to effectuate these principles and mandates. CAIR Coalition prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. CAIR Coalition conforms to the spirit as well as to the letter of all applicable laws and regulations.
Anti-Racism Statement:
https://www.caircoalition.org/cair-coalitions-statement-becoming-anti-racist-organization
Requirements
Competencies Required:
Legal Proficiency
The employee understands legal concepts at a level to allow for meaningful contribution to client intake, follow-up, and casework with moderate supervision. The employee is working towards self-sufficiency in client-facing legal activities and will demonstrate increasing understanding of how to prepare legal filings.
Client and Programmatic Proficiency
The employee adequately presents legal and procedural concepts to detained individuals and clients with moderate supervision, including working with clients and their families/support community throughout the course of a case. The employee will develop trauma-informed interviewing and rapport building skills. The employee adequately prioritizes time and resources.??
Administrative
The employee ensures that all administrative aspects of their position, attendant to the provision of services to clients and program reporting, are carried out without managerial intervention, including intake logging and case tracking, file upkeep, database upkeep, etc.
Qualifications Required:
- Written and oral Spanish proficiency required;
- Driver’s license required, or ability to work with team on transportation to remote locations;
- Strong candidates will have experience working in the immigrant community, particularly in immigration law, and/or experience working with people in detention.
Paralegal, Detained Children's Program
Who We Are:
CAIR Coalition fights every day alongside immigrant children and adults who are detained and facing deportation. We provide legal and social services to immigrants in the Capital Region and beyond.
The Detained Children’s Program provides legal orientation and screening to migrant children detained in the Maryland and Virginia region. We also offer free legal services to children released from Office of Refugee Resettlement custody to the greater Washington/DC Baltimore region.
Role Description:
A paralegal in the Detained Children’s Program works collaboratively with legal and social services staff to:
- coordinate and participate in visits to detention centers for the purpose of conducting know your rights presentations and legal screenings with detained children;
- support attorneys in providing legal services to unaccompanied immigrant children, including assisting with paperwork and case preparation; and
- contribute to the program’s provision of services as a whole, including administrative tasks such as database maintenance and reporting to funders.
- ensure clients receive high-quality, culturally competent legal services while detained and after release
General Duties and Responsibilities[1]
Client Services:
- Participates in the preparation and breakdown of detention facility visits.
- Conducts detention facility visits in Virginia and Maryland, as needed, for the provision of know your rights presentations, intakes, and follow-up conversations with immigrant children.
- Prepares case summaries and contributes to case evaluation including teamwide case reviews, research, securing records, and obtaining additional information from family members to assist with relief assessments and pro bono placement.
- Conducts administrative tasks, including database maintenance and reporting to funders.
- Supports attorneys representing detained and released clients before USCIS, Baltimore, Arlington Immigration, and Hyattsville Immigration Courts and local state courts in Maryland, DC, and Virginia. This includes representation in the following types of cases: Asylum, Withholding of Removal, Protection under the Convention against Torture, Special Immigrant Juvenile Status, U-Visas and T-Visas, in addition to limited social services assistance.
Organizational Services:
- Ensures the timely and accurate entry of case information into shared databases.
- Assists other program staff in completion of their workload during high-work/low-bandwidth periods.
- Assists with stakeholder relationship activities.
- Engages with internal CAIR Coalition committees and working groups to lend a voice to the growth and strategy of the organization.
1 This list is illustrative and not intended to be a complete classification of all job functions
Our Work Environment:
CAIR Coalition’s Detained Children’s Program (DUCs) is a highly collaborative work environment. We are committed to providing high-quality, trauma-informed legal and social services, and a culture of professional growth and support for staff. Although aspects of our work are completed in smaller teams, we work towards integrated and client-focused services across the program by embracing interconnectivity. We strive to create systems that provide structure while actively fostering innovation and adaptability. Supervisors in our program share a commitment to teaching, mentorship, and work life balance.
Competencies Required:
Legal Proficiency
The paralegal demonstrates an understanding of basic eligibility for types of immigration relief to allow for meaningful contribution to client intake, follow-up, and casework with moderate supervision. The LA works towards self-sufficiency in client-facing activities and demonstrates an advancing knowledge of trauma-informed practices. The LA demonstrates an understanding of legal information versus legal advice. The LA demonstrates an increasing understanding in the preparation of legal filings under attorney supervision.
Client and Programmatic Proficiency
The LA will skillfully and clearly present legal information and know your rights presentations to detained children and clients with moderate supervision. The LA has, and continually improves upon, trauma-informed interviewing and rapport building skills. The LA will demonstrate effective time and resources management.
Administrative
The LA will ensure that all administrative aspects attendant to the provision of services to clients and jail visits are carried out with moderate supervision, including facility visit preparation and breakdown, file, and database upkeep, etc.
Qualifications Required:
- Written and oral Spanish fluency required.
- 1 year of professional experience, strongly preferred.
- Experience in immigration law and/or working with clients; ideally children, preferred.
- It is expected that the candidate will need to travel for work-related business. As a result, the candidate must possess a valid driver's license and be comfortable operating a vehicle upon hiring. This role requires travel, but qualified individuals with disabilities may be accommodated in a reasonable manner under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
- Favorable results on background check including driving record, Child Protection Registry, and state and federal criminal records.
What Else You Should Know:
Position Type
Non-Exempt Full-Time
Supervisory Responsibility
None
Reports To
Staff Attorney
Timeline
Deadline to Apply: Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
Salary
$47,500- $51,350 commensurate with experience
Location
This position will be based from the Washington, D.C. or Baltimore, M.D. Office.
Telework
All CAIR Coalition staff, interns, and volunteers are working remotely. However, due to the duties and responsibilities of certain positions, certain staff members will be required to live within 30 miles of their assigned primary office. Staff have the option to work from the office following a hybrid model, as long as they are in compliance with CAIR Coalition's COVID-19 policies.
COVID-19 Vaccination:
All employees are required to be fully vaccinated and boosted against COVID-19. To be fully vaccinated means having completed the full dosages required for the type of vaccine obtained as designated by the CDC. If boosters are subsequently recommended by the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) then employees will be required to receive the booster within thirty (30) days of their eligibility to access the boosters.
Benefits
- CAIR coalition’s benefits package includes:
- Free gym access located in Washington, D.C.;
- Flexible working hours after successful completion of trainings and with approval of supervisor;
- Pre-tax commuter benefits for those living in the DMV;
- Subsidized health, dental insurance, and vision subsidized health, dental insurance, and vision insurance (CAIR Coalition pays a very high rate of the insurance package, for which we can provide additional information);
- An annual data reimbursement of $240
- life insurance valued at $50,000, as well as long and short term disability;
- the option to set up a Flexible Spending Account; and
- the option to set up a 403(b) account (the equivalent of a 401(k) account for non-profits) which the organization has the option, for all employees on an annual basis, to match at a certain percentage after one year of continuous employment.
Paid time off includes:
- 23 personal days per calendar year
- Up to 20 days of sick time per calendar year
- 7 hours of volunteer time
- Federal holidays
- Winter break closure
- 12 weeks of parental leave
How to Apply:
Submit your resume and a cover letter that explains your interest in this role with your Paylocity application.
EEO Statement:
Capital Area Immigrants’ Rights (CAIR) Coalition is an equal opportunity employer. In accordance with anti-discrimination law, it is the purpose of this policy to effectuate these principles and mandates. CAIR Coalition prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. CAIR Coalition conforms to the spirit as well as to the letter of all applicable laws and regulations.
Anti-Racism Statement:
https://www.caircoalition.org/cair-coalitions-statement-becoming-anti-racist-organization
Program Associate, Detained Children's Program
Who We Are:
The Capital Area Immigrants’ Rights (CAIR) Coalition is the only non-profit organization in the Washington, D.C. area focused exclusively on providing free legal assistance to child and adult immigrants detained by the government in the Capital Region.
The Detained Children’s Program provides legal orientation and screening to detained migrant children in the Maryland and Virginia region. We also offer free legal services to children released from Office of Refugee Resettlement custody to the greater Washington/DC Baltimore region.
Role Description:
A Program Associate in the Detained Children’s Program travels regularly to DC and Baltimore offices to fulfill role responsibilities and works collaboratively with the team to:
- Contribute to the implementation of contractual requirements;
- Maintain databases and report to funders;
- Manage centralized phone line and email inbox, respond to general inquiries, and maintain communications with clients;
- Help with expense reporting; and
- Assist with detention visit preparation and breakdown, as needed.
General Duties and Responsibilities [1]:
Operations and Administration
- Enter client information into shared databases and complete data reporting requirements.
- Maintain filing system and storage room, including organization of paper files, creating paper files when needed, and periodic mass archiving of files across the program.
- Communicate and record case assignments to staff and complete document and database audits to ensure accuracy of case information.
- Assist attorneys with day-to-day administrative tasks, as needed, including preparing and mailing filings.
- Helping with organization and other administrative work related to onboarding new staff.
- Assisting with maintaining the children’s conference room and coordinating with social services when supplies are low.
- Manage team calendars.
Client Services
- Manage centralized phone line and email inbox for general program and client inquiries.
- Close cases and provide referrals for children we cannot represent.
- Assist with scheduling in-person meetings and coordinating office spaces.
- Notarize documents, as needed, for case filings.
- When staffing is low, participate in the preparation and breakdown of facility visits.
- Help maintain communication with clients, track hearings, and update database with relevant case information.
- Assist attorneys with case filings by printing documents, scanning copies, and delivering filings to local courts, as needed.
Organizational Services:
- Assist with program’s expense reporting and credit card reconciliation.
- Support DUCs leadership in organizing program-sponsored events, such as funder site visits or team retreats.
[1] This list is illustrative and not intended to be a complete classification of all job functions or tasks.
Competencies Required:
Client and Legal Proficiency
The Program Associate will demonstrate an understanding of legal information versus legal advice and trauma-informed practices. The Program Associate will provide timely and professional responses to community and client inquiries and/or direct them to appropriate staff members.
Programmatic Proficiency
The Program Associate properly prioritizes tasks and projects with minimal oversight. The Program Associate demonstrates understanding and proficiency with internal team systems and policies and a growing understanding of the underlying contractual obligations. The Program Associate demonstrates independence in management of assignments and projects and sound judgment in determining whether and how to raise issues with their supervisor and team leadership.
Administrative
The Program Associate will ensure all administrative aspects of the job are carried out with a high level of attention to detail and without managerial intervention, including timekeeping, file and database upkeep, and communications with clients and potential clients.
Qualifications Required:
- At least one year of relevant professional experience strongly preferred, ideally at a firm or organization providing legal services.
- Written and oral Spanish fluency required.
- Driver’s license required.
- Excellent written and spoken communication skills.
- Competency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and database management, familiarity with LegalServer preferred.
- Detail-oriented with strong organizational and time-management skills and with the ability to prioritize and maintain deadlines.
- Ability to become certified as a notary public.
- Commitment to principles of equity and inclusion.
- Favorable results on background check including driving record, Child Protection Registry, and state and federal criminal records.
Our Work Environment:
CAIR Coalition’s Detained Children’s Program (DUCs) is a highly collaborative work environment. We are committed to providing high-quality, trauma-informed legal and social services and a culture of professional growth and support for staff. Although aspects of our work are completed in smaller teams, we work towards integrated and client-focused services across the program by embracing interconnectivity. We strive to create systems that provide structure while fostering innovation and adaptability. Supervisors in our program share a commitment to teaching, Mentorship, and work life balance.
What Else You Should Know:
Position Type
Full-time, non-exempt
Timeline
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the role has been filled.
Salary
The salary range for this position is $47,500- $53,000 based on the salary scale prescribed by CAIR Coalition and commensurate with the level of experience. A higher salary may be offered to candidates with 4+ years of relevant experience.
Location
This position will be based from our Washington, D.C. or Baltimore, MD office.
Telework
All CAIR Coalition staff, interns, and volunteers are working a hybrid-work model (in person and virtual/remote) as long as they are in compliance with CAIR Coalition's COVID-19 policies. Due to the duties and responsibilities of certain positions, certain staff members will be required to live within 30 miles of their assigned primary office.
COVID-19 Vaccination:
All employees are required to be fully vaccinated and boosted against COVID-19. To be fully vaccinated means having completed the full dosages required for the type of vaccine obtained as designated by the CDC. If boosters are subsequently recommended by the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) then employees will be required to receive the booster within thirty (30) days of their eligibility to access the boosters.
Benefits
- CAIR coalition’s benefits package includes:
- Free gym access located in Washington, D.C or Baltimore, MD (dependent on employee’s primary office);
- Flexible working hours after successful completion of trainings and with approval of supervisor;
- Pre-tax commuter benefits for those living in the DMV;
- Subsidized health, dental insurance, and vision subsidized health, dental insurance, and vision insurance (CAIR Coalition pays a very high rate of the insurance package, for which we can provide additional information);
- An annual data reimbursement of $240
- life insurance valued at $50,000, as well as long and short term disability;
- the option to set up a Flexible Spending Account; and
- the option to set up a 403(b) account (the equivalent of a 401(k) account for non-profits) which the organization has the option, for all employees on an annual basis, to match at a certain percentage after one year of continuous employment.
Paid time off includes:
- 23 personal days per calendar year
- Up to 20 days of sick time per calendar year
- 7 hours of volunteer time
- Federal holidays
- Winter break closure
- 12 weeks of parental leave
How to Apply:
Submit your resume, a cover letter that explains your interest in this role, and a writing sample with your Paylocity application.
EEO Statement
Capital Area Immigrants’ Rights (CAIR) Coalition is an equal opportunity employer. In accordance with anti-discrimination law, it is the purpose of this policy to effectuate these principles and mandates. CAIR Coalition prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. CAIR Coalition conforms to the spirit as well as to the letter of all applicable laws and regulations.
Anti-Racism Statement:
https://www.caircoalition.org/cair-coalitions-statement-becoming-anti-r…
Program Director, Detained Adult Program
Who We Are
The Capital Area Immigrants’ Rights (CAIR) Coalition is the only non-profit organization in the Washington, D.C. area that is exclusively focused on providing legal assistance to adult and child immigrants detained by the government in the Capital Region.
The Detained Adult Program (DAP) works with hundreds of adults who are detained by ICE each year, providing information, support, and legal representation. We provide trauma-sensitive, person-centered services, and deeply value the autonomy of the people we work with in detention as they navigate the fundamentally inhumane immigration system.
Position Summary:
The Program Director of the Detained Adult Program plans, administers, and oversees the Detained Adult Program. The Director ensures effective implementation of the program and compliance with CAIR Coalition’s contracts with ACACIA and other funding agreements. The Program Director provides direct supervision to senior staff such as managing attorneys, managing paralegals, and deputy program directors and supports the team in implementing the program's jail visit and representation services. The Program Director is a member of the leadership and executive team. These teams are responsible for making final decisions on issues that impact significant liability or risk for the organization.
General Duties and Responsibilities [1]:
Responsible For Management of All Program Staff.
- Responsibly delegates to Deputy Program Directors (DPDs) to manage the program to ensure a healthy, cooperative work environment and support where needed.
- Maintains accurate job descriptions for contracts and reports.
- Provides supervision, training, guidance, and feedback for direct reports.
- Conducts regular check-ins and annual performance reviews for direct reports, supporting professional growth.
- Conducts regular programmatic meetings to maintain open communication with all staff in the program and act on feedback regarding implementing new systems.
Works With the Directors of Other Departments to Maintain Quality Representation Services
- Works with the Litigation Director in supervising and developing litigation strategy for all cases handled in-house and pro bono.
- Works with the Litigation Director to identify and foster impact litigation cases and issues.
- Works with the Litigation Director to develop and maintain accurate case systems that:
- Adequately track the quality of client representation.
- Track case progress.
- Holds junior staff accountable for work completed.
- Contains accurate case information.
- Works in coordination with the Pro Bono Coordinator to oversee the recruitment, training and mentoring of pro bono attorneys representing detained adult immigrants.
- Works with the leadership team to further the organization’s mission externally and manage daily operations.
- Meets regularly with members of the leadership team to assist in the organization's decision making in terms of internal policies and operations.
- Works with the leadership team to align program services and goals with the organization’s mission.
- Involved in the organization's strategic planning and its implementation within the program.
- Attend Board and Legal Action Committee meetings, as necessary, to report on the program's progress and request input.
- Attends other external events as the face of the program and if needed, the organization.
- Stays abreast of all challenges within the jail, caselaw and court changes feedback regarding implementing new systems.
[1] This list is illustrative and not intended to be a complete classification of all job functions or tasks.
Competencies Required:
Inclusive Leadership Competency
- Exercises authority without asserting dominance: Approaches leadership with a mindset of “power with” rather than “power over” and regularly includes others in planning and decision-making:
Models and inspires accountability.
Inspires and motivates others to act and meet goals.
- Delegates skillfully:
Holds the team accountable and acknowledges growing edges (in self and others).
Uses coaching, training, and feedback to develop others and support problem-solving.
- Sees mistakes as learning opportunities:
Seeks and engages well with feedback.
Applies best practices in equitable management.
Legal and Programmatic Competency
- Leads the effective management of the program's jail, client, and in-office obligations to ensure that clients receive zealous representation, funding obligations are met, and that the program collaborates effectively within the organization and with peer groups.
- Monitors progress on goals and evaluates outcomes.
- Provides input to the budgeting process to the Deputy Program Directors (DPDs), and Deputy Director (DD), and supports in monitoring program expenditures.
- Anticipates and responds to key changes in the environment by forming plans in consultation with the Deputy Director (DD) and Deputy Program Directors (DPDs), and others as necessary.
- Supports Securing funding for these programs by leveraging stakeholder relationships and consulting on processes.
- Writes clear messaging on deliberation and decision making of processes to DAP staff in consult with Deputy Director (DD) and Deputy Program Directors (DPDs).
- Supports in Setting Best Practices and Expectations.
- Identify challenges proactively that are occurring and rectify them in appropriate timeliness.
- Sets Long-term vision considering input and feedback from department staff.
- Works under the guidance of the DD to provide the governing board and funders with regular updates and reports.
- Provides direct input for grant and contract applications related to services.
- Ensures that the program is in compliance with all government contracts and foundation grant requirements.
Qualifications
- A JD is not required but is preferred.
- 6-8+ years of program management, immigration policy, or related experience at increasing levels of responsibility.
- Minimum 3 years of supervisory experience.
- Experience working in a multilateral institution, government, non-profit organization, or academia.
- Experience managing litigation teams in a diverse and inclusive environment.
- Outstanding interpersonal, problem-solving, and mentoring skills.
- Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and work well under pressure.
- Ability to communicate, coordinate, negotiate, and build effective collaborations across cultures, classes, perspectives, roles, and levels of professional responsibility.
- Demonstrate a high level of collaboration, collaboration in decision-making, and teamwork.
- Experience in program and grant management.
- Spanish-language fluency is a plus.
- A driver’s license is preferred as the role may require travel.
Additional Role-Specific Details:
Position Type:
Exempt, full-time
Salary:
In 2018 CAIR Coalition implemented a compensation framework to be more straightforward, transparent, and provide assurance of internal equity. The compensation model we use is based on an individual's position and years of relevant work experience to avoid salary discrepancies and to reduce the risk of racial, gender, or other forms of bias affecting a candidate's salary.
The salary range for this role is: $91,200-$130,000.
Recruitment Timeline:
Applications will be received on a rolling basis until the role has been filled. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
Position Location:
The position can be based from CAIR Coalition Washington, DC or Baltimore, MD office.
Operating Status:
CAIR Coalition operates a hybrid work environment where staff are asked to work from the office one day per week.
Travel:
This position may require travel to CAIR Coalition offices or facilities.
COVID-19 Vaccination:
All employees are required to be fully vaccinated and boosted against COVID-19. To be fully vaccinated means having completed the full dosages required for the type of vaccine obtained as designated by the CDC. If boosters are subsequently recommended by the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) then employees will be required to receive the booster within thirty (30) days of their eligibility to access the boosters.
Benefits
CAIR coalition’s benefits package includes:
- Free gym access located in Washington, D.C or Baltimore, MD (dependent on employee’s primary office);
- Flexible working hours after successful completion of trainings and with approval of supervisor;
- Pre-tax commuter benefits for those living in the DMV;
- Subsidized health, dental insurance, and vision insurance (CAIR Coalition pays a very high rate of the insurance package, for which we can provide additional information);
- An annual data reimbursement of $300
- life insurance valued at $50,000, as well as long and short term disability;
- the option to set up a Flexible Spending Account; and
- the option to set up a 403(b) account (the equivalent of a 401(k) account for non-profits) which the organization has the option, for all employees on an annual basis, to match at a certain percentage after one year of continuous employment.
Paid time off includes:
- 23 personal days per calendar year
- Up to 20 days of sick time per calendar year
- 7 hours of volunteer time
- Federal holidays
- Winter break closure
- 12 weeks of parental leave
To Apply:
Complete the job application in its entirety. Be sure to upload a cover letter, resume, and writing sample. Please include a cover letter demonstrating your interest in working for CAIR Coalition and explaining your experience in managing teams of advocates.
EEOC Statement:
Capital Area Immigrants’ Rights (CAIR) Coalition is an equal opportunity employer. In accordance with anti-discrimination law, it is the purpose of this policy to effectuate these principles and mandates. CAIR Coalition prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. CAIR Coalition conforms to the spirit as well as to the letter of all applicable laws and regulations.
At CAIR Coalition, we embrace the fact that talented individuals come from diverse backgrounds and life experiences. We believe that diversity in all dimensions of the organization supports and bolsters the innovative thinking essential to our success. CAIR Coalition values your unique perspectives, skills, and potential, and we are committed to providing equal opportunities for growth and development. If you are passionate about CAIR Coalition's mission and are excited to contribute your talents to our team, we encourage you to submit your application. Candidates from traditionally underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply. If you are a candidate with a disability and require accommodation to apply for this position, please contact us at HR@caircoalition.org.
Anti-Racism Statement:
https://www.caircoalition.org/cair-coalitions-statement-becoming-anti-racist-organization
Senior Attorney, Detained Adult Program
Who We Are:
CAIR Coalition fights every day alongside immigrant children and adults who are detained and facing deportation. We provide legal and social services to immigrants in the Capital Region and beyond.
Position Summary:
A Senior Attorney in the Detained Adult Program focuses on (i) the provision of direct legal services under a universal representation model to immigrant adults held in facilities in Virginia and Maryland, (ii) the supervision of staff attorneys and legal assistants (also including supervision of interns and fellows); and (iii) the mentoring of pro bono attorneys. This position is based in our Baltimore, Maryland office and will work primarily with our Maryland focused universal representation project/public defender model. This project provides legal representation to detained immigrants regardless of their criminal history and immigration procedural postures.
Our Work Environment:
CAIR Coalition’s Detained Adult Program (DAP) is a highly collaborative work environment. We work in smaller focused teams around various direct representation and legal orientation projects, but all DAP colleagues are interconnected through case workshopping, appeals management, advocacy initiatives, and staff-run committees.
DAP staff have been a source of expertise in the highly complex and ever-changing immigration system. We have persisted through administration changes, policy shifts, and attacks on the rights and freedoms of immigrants through collaborations that arise to address challenges or to brainstorm and implement affirmative strategies.
We center impacted people in our advocacy and media. We embrace the movements to bring universal representation, an end to detention, and meaningful due process to the U.S. immigration system in our work, which also staying focused on the practical work we are trained to do and where we are most useful in this space. We grow our reach and skill set when resources permit and there is interest!
General Duties and Responsibilities:
Representation:
- Manages caseload of direct legal representation of detained clients in removal proceedings primarily before the Arlington and/or Baltimore Immigration Courts. This includes representation types such as Asylum, Withholding of Removal, Protection under the Convention against Torture, Special Immigrant Juvenile Status, U-Visas, T-Visas, and Cancellation of Removal.
- Provide direct supervision to staff attorneys on direct representation cases, including supervision and assistance of (i) case strategy, (ii) trial preparation, and (iii) case load management.
- Provide expert mentoring to outside attorneys representing detained immigrants on a pro bono basis.
- Assist other program staff in completion of their workload during high-work/low bandwidth periods.
- Participates in stakeholder relationship activities.
- Engages with internal CAIR Coalition committees and working groups to lend a voice to the growth and strategy of the organization.
- Written and oral Spanish fluency strongly preferred, but experienced supervisors will be considered with no Spanish language.
- Driver’s license required.
Competencies Required:
Legal Proficiency
The Senior Attorney demonstrates a solid understanding of legal concepts at a level that allows them to provide services to clients with limited supervision. The Senior Attorney clearly and skillfully employs the law in written and oral presentations and assists junior staff in doing the same. The Senior Attorney has taken on multiple hearings or interviews for clients with limited supervision. The Senior Attorney is able to competently supervise Staff Attorneys on client interaction matters and legal strategy, research, and writing. The Senior Attorney demonstrates cultural competency and trauma-informed practices.
Client and Programmatic Proficiency
The Senior Attorney competently handles, and supervises, all required programmatic obligations (staff supervision, program reporting requirements, intake, follow-up, relief eligibility memos for pro bono placement, etc.). The Senior Attorney manages their supervision responsibilities and in-house and pro bono mentoring caseload to allow for proper prioritization and thoughtful use of time and resources. The Senior Attorney supervises junior staff to ensure programmatic efficiency and efficacy. The Senior Attorney exercises sound judgment and decision-making skills and identifies when issues must be elevated to management.
Administrative
The Senior Attorney ensures that all administrative aspects of their position (and of their supervisees’), attendant to the provision of services to clients, are carried out without managerial intervention, including timekeeping, file upkeep, database upkeep, etc.).
Qualifications Required:
- JD and 3-5 years of relevant experience in immigration law.
- Must be licensed to practice law and in good standing with a state bar.
- Written and oral Spanish fluency strongly preferred, but experienced supervisors will be considered with no Spanish language.
- It is expected that the candidate will need to travel for work-related business. As a result, the candidate must possess a valid driver's license and be comfortable operating a vehicle upon hiring. This role requires travel, but qualified individuals with disabilities may be accommodated in a reasonable manner under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
What Else You Should Know:
Salary
Commensurate with experience working in legal services. The salary range is $67,800-$96,500.
Travel
This position may require travel during the COVID-19 pandemic, in accordance with all CAIR Coalition safety protocols.
Position Location
Baltimore, MD or Washington, DC
Telework
All CAIR Coalition staff, interns, and volunteers are working a hybrid-work model (in-person and virtual/remote) as long as they are in compliance with CAIR Coalition's COVID-19 policies. Due to the duties and responsibilities of certain positions, certain staff members will be required to live within 30 miles of their assigned primary office.
Benefits:
CAIR Coalition’s benefits package includes (a) subsidized health, dental insurance, and vision insurance (CAIR Coalition pays a very high rate of the insurance package, for which we can provide additional information); (b) life insurance valued at $50,000, as well as long and short term disability; (d) the option to set up a Flexible Spending Account (beginning January 1, 2022); and (d) the option to set up a 403(b) account (the equivalent of a 401(k) account for nonprofits) which the organization has the option, for all employees on an annual basis, to match at a certain percentage after one year of continuous employment.
Paid Time-Off:
- 23 personal days per calendar year
- Up to 20 days of sick time per calendar year
- 7 hours of volunteer time
- Federal holidays
- Winter break closure
To Apply:
Complete the application in its entirety. Be sure to upload a cover letter, resume, and writing sample focused on an immigration related legal issue.
EEO Statement
Capital Area Immigrants’ Rights (CAIR) Coalition is an equal opportunity employer. In accordance with anti-discrimination law, it is the purpose of this policy to effectuate these principles and mandates. CAIR Coalition prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, homeless status, or any other characteristic protected by law. CAIR Coalition conforms to the spirit as well as to the letter of all applicable laws and regulations.
Senior Attorney, Detained Children's Program
Who We Are:
CAIR Coalition fights every day alongside immigrant children and adults who are detained and facing deportation. We provide legal and social services to immigrants in the Capital Region and beyond.
The Detained Children’s Program provides legal orientation and screening to detained migrant children in the Maryland and Virginia region. We also offer free legal services to children released from Office of Refugee Resettlement custody to the greater Washington/DC Baltimore region.
Our Work Environment:
CAIR Coalition’s Detained Children’s Program (DUCs) is a highly collaborative work environment. We are committed to providing high-quality, trauma-informed legal and social services and a culture of professional growth and support for staff. Although aspects of our work are completed in smaller teams, we work towards integrated and client-focused services across the program by embracing interconnectivity. We strive to create systems that provide structure while fostering innovation and adaptability. Supervisors in our program share a commitment to teaching,?mentorship, and work life balance.
Position Summary:
A Senior Attorney in the Detained Children’s Program works collaboratively with staff and leadership to:
- ensure clients receive high-quality, culturally competent legal services while detained and after release;
- participate in visits to detention centers for the purpose of conducting legal intakes and Know Your Rights (KYR) presentations to detained children,
- provide direct legal services to unaccompanied immigrant children;
- mentor pro bono attorneys providing legal services to unaccompanied immigrant children;
- supervise legal assistants, interns, and staff attorneys (depending on experience level); and
- promote a team culture of equity and inclusion.
General Duties and Responsibilities:
Representation:
- Manage a caseload including representation of both detained and released clients. This includes representation before the local immigration courts, USCIS, and state courts in the following types of cases: Asylum, Withholding of Removal, protection under the Convention against Torture, Special Immigrant Juvenile Status, U visas, and T visas.
- Participate in legal screenings and follow-up interviews to determine eligibility for legal relief and facilitation of case placement with in-house or pro bono attorneys.
- Support the program’s efforts to remain abreast of new developments in the law and to train staff on immigration and relevant aspects of family law.
- Supervise legal assistants, interns, and staff attorneys on aspects of case work. Supervision of other attorneys is dependent on experience.
- Provide expert mentoring to pro bono attorneys from law firms handling children’s immigration cases.
- Undertake own administrative tasks, including for casework (e.g., preparation and submission of filings, file maintenance, and recordkeeping), and social services referrals.
Organizational Services:
- Assist program leadership with the implementation of long-term program plans and contract / grant compliance.
- Facilitate and/or participate in regular facility visits for the purpose of conducting legal intakes and KYR presentations for detained children.
- Ensure a smooth operation of administrative aspects of the program such as processing referrals and the internal case placement process.
- Ensure the timely and accurate entry of case information into shared databases.
- Assist other program staff in completion of their workload during high-work/low- bandwidth periods.
- Participate in stakeholder relationship activities, including trainings and meetings with community groups, government agencies, detention center staff, and other legal service providers.
- Engages with internal CAIR Coalition committees and working groups to participate in the growth and strategy of the organization.
Competencies Required:
Legal Proficiency
The Senior Attorney demonstrates a solid understanding of legal concepts, allowing them to provide competent and client-centered services with limited supervision. The Senior Attorney effectively advocates through written and oral work and assists junior staff in doing the same. The Senior Attorney has experience litigating and preparing for hearings or interviews for clients with limited supervision. The Senior Attorney competently supervises aspects of the work of staff attorneys, legal assistants and interns on client relationships and legal strategy, research, and writing. The Senior Attorney demonstrates cultural competency and trauma-informed practices.
Client and Programmatic Proficiency
The Senior Attorney competently handles, and supervises, all required program obligations (including KYRs, legal intakes, follow-up interviewing, case placement, direct representation services, and pro bono mentorship). The Senior Attorney manages their in-house and pro bono mentoring caseload to allow for appropriate prioritization and thoughtful use of time and resources. The Senior Attorney supervises junior staff to ensure programmatic efficiency and efficacy. The Senior Attorney exercises sound judgment and decision-making skills and identifies when issues must be elevated to leadership.
Administrative
The Senior Attorney ensures that all administrative aspects of their position (and that of their supervisees) are carried out without managerial intervention, including timekeeping, file maintenance, database entries, etc.
Qualifications Required:
- JD and 3-5 years relevant experience in immigration law (SIJS experience a plus).
- Experience working with child clients preferred.
- Prior supervision experience preferred but not required.
- Written and oral Spanish fluency.
- Must be licensed to practice law in Maryland or Virginia, eligible to waive into the Maryland or Virginia bar, or willing to sit for the next scheduled bar exam.
- It is expected that the candidate will need to travel for work-related business. As a result, the candidate must possess a valid driver's license and be comfortable operating a vehicle upon hiring. This role requires travel, but qualified individuals with disabilities may be accommodated in a reasonable manner under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
- Commitment to principles of equity and inclusion.
- Favorable results on background check including driving record, Child Protection Registry, and state and federal criminal records.
- Ability to work remotely temporarily but fulfill job responsibilities in-person as required.
What Else You Should Know:
Position Type
Full-time exempt
Supervisory Responsibility
Yes
Reports To
Managing Attorney
Timeline
Deadline to Apply: Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
Salary
$67,800-$83,750
Location
This position will be based from the Washington, D.C. or Baltimore, M.D. Office.
Telework
All CAIR Coalition staff, interns, and volunteers are working a hybrid-work model (in-person and virtual/remote) as long as they are in compliance with CAIR Coalition's COVID-19 policies. Due to the duties and responsibilities of certain positions, certain staff members will be required to live within 30 miles of their assigned primary office.
COVID-19 Vaccination:
All employees are required to be fully vaccinated and boosted against COVID-19. To be fully vaccinated means having completed the full dosages required for the type of vaccine obtained as designated by the CDC. If boosters are subsequently recommended by the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) then employees will be required to receive the booster within thirty (30) days of their eligibility to access the boosters.
Benefits
- CAIR coalition’s benefits package includes:
- Free gym access located in Washington, D.C.;
- Flexible working hours after successful completion of trainings and with approval of supervisor;
- Pre-tax commuter benefits for those living in the DMV;
- Subsidized health, dental insurance, and vision subsidized health, dental insurance, and vision insurance (CAIR Coalition pays a very high rate of the insurance package, for which we can provide additional information);
- An annual data reimbursement of $240
- life insurance valued at $50,000, as well as long and short term disability;
- the option to set up a Flexible Spending Account; and
- the option to set up a 403(b) account (the equivalent of a 401(k) account for non-profits) which the organization has the option, for all employees on an annual basis, to match at a certain percentage after one year of continuous employment.
Paid time off includes:
- 23 personal days per calendar year
- Up to 20 days of sick time per calendar year
- 7 hours of volunteer time
- Federal holidays
- Winter break closure
- 12 weeks of parental leave
How to Apply:
Submit your resume and a cover letter that explains your interest in this role with your Paylocity application.
EEO Statement
Capital Area Immigrants’ Rights (CAIR) Coalition is an equal opportunity employer. In accordance with anti-discrimination law, it is the purpose of this policy to effectuate these principles and mandates. CAIR Coalition prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, homeless status, or any other characteristic protected by law. CAIR Coalition conforms to the spirit as well as to the letter of all applicable laws and regulations.
Anti-Racism Statement:
https://www.caircoalition.org/cair-coalitions-statement-becoming-anti-r…;
Staff Attorney, Detained Adult Program
Who We Are:
CAIR Coalition fights every day alongside immigrant children and adults who are detained and facing deportation. We provide legal and social services to immigrants in the Capital Region and beyond.
Position Summary:
A staff attorney in the Detained Adult Program focuses on: (i) screening individuals for program eligibility and immigration relief, (ii) managing a caseload of direct legal services to immigrant adults held in facilities in Virginia, Maryland and outside the DMV region, (iii) maintaining client and stakeholder information up to date in the organization’s database, (iv) advocating with stakeholders and community representatives for program and clients, and (v) the mentoring of pro bono attorneys.
General Duties and Responsibilities [1]:
Representation:
- Manage a caseload of in-house direct legal representation of detained clients in removal proceedings before the Arlington and/or Baltimore Immigration Courts and out-of-state courts via remote appearance as needed. This includes representation in cases such as Asylum, Withholding of Removal, Protection under the Convention against Torture, Special Immigrant Juvenile Status, Board of Immigration Appeals, U-Visas, T- Visas, and Cancellation of Removal. An average staff attorney’s docket consists of four trial level cases going to individual hearing and other removal defense cases.
- Provide expert mentoring to outside pro bono attorneys representing detained immigrants on a pro bono basis.
- Prepare Post Release Plans and social service plans, in coordination with social services staff.
- Research, engage, and prepare experts on health, behavioral health, and country conditions.
Detention Facility Services:
- Conduct government detention center visits as needed to prepare clients for their immigration hearings.
- Conduct individual intakes with immigrants at the detention facilities or remotely. Provide necessary follow-up after intakes to evaluate program eligibility and eligibility for relief, including performing research, securing criminal/juvenile delinquency records and obtaining additional information from family and community members.
Organizational Services:
- Ensure the inputting and accuracy of data and case information into shared databases in a timely fashion.
- Assist other program staff in completion of their workload during high-work/low- bandwidth periods.
- Take part in stakeholder relationship activities, including in-person and telephonic meetings with community groups, governmental bodies and representatives, and other legal service providers.
- Conduct trainings and stakeholder meetings with detention center staff.
- Engage with internal CAIR Coalition committees and working groups to lend a voice to the growth and strategy of the organization.
- Undertake own administrative functions, including for casework (e.g., preparation of all aspects of filings). CAIR Coalition attorneys do not have dedicated paralegals for assistance on cases and non-attorney staff time is dedicated to client-facing tasks (e.g, jail visits).
Program-Specific Duties and Responsibilities:
Members of the Detained Adult program, in addition to the responsibilities above, also:
- Coordinate with all internal DAP Programs (e.g., LOP, NQRP, Safe Cities) to ensure all programs are kept abreast of developments and clients.
Our Work Environment
CAIR Coalition’s Detained Adult Program is a highly collaborative work environment. Each team lead works directly with a focused team, but all colleagues are interconnected through case workshopping or staff-run committees.
DAP staff has been a source of expertise in the highly complex and ever-changing immigration system. They have persisted through administration changes, policy shifts, and attacks on the rights and freedoms of immigrants through project-focused cohorts that arise to address challenges or to brainstorm and implement affirmative strategies.
We center impacted people in our advocacy and media. We embrace the movement in our work while also staying focused on the practicalities we trained for, as well as where we are most useful in this movement. We grow our reach and skill set when resources permit and there is passion. We do not limit our push or dreams for this world based on the limits we know but try to imagine how to navigate around them.
We value our brain trust and are constantly finding ways to ensure that we maintain and grow, in ways that acknowledge those with expertise but also sets up new advocates for success.
Competencies Required:
Legal Proficiency
The Staff Attorney demonstrates a developing understanding of legal concepts at a level that allows them to provide services to clients with moderate supervision. The Staff Attorney clearly and skillfully employs the law in written and oral presentations with limited supervision and input from supervisors. The Staff Attorney contributes substantively to case assessment discussions. The Staff Attorney is working towards self-sufficiency in client hearings, interviews, and legal research and writing.
Client and Programmatic Proficiency
The Staff Attorney satisfactorily handles all required in-jail and in-office programmatic obligations (intake, follow-up, case summaries, case development, etc.) with limited supervision. The Staff Attorney manages their in-house and pro bono mentoring caseload to allow for proper prioritization and thoughtful use of time and resources.
Administrative
The Staff Attorney ensures that all administrative aspects of their position, attendant to the provision of services to clients, are carried out without managerial intervention, including timekeeping, file upkeep, database upkeep, etc.
Qualifications Required:
- JD and 1 -3 years of relevant experience with at least one year of immigration law preferred.
- Certification: Licensed to practice law or expecting attorney bar exam results in the fall of 2022.
- Written and oral Spanish fluency strongly preferred.
- Ability to manage a docket of detained removal defense cases.
- Strong trial advocacy skills preferred.
- It is expected that the candidate will need to travel for work-related business. As a result, the candidate must possess a valid driver's license and be comfortable operating a vehicle upon hiring. This role requires travel, but qualified individuals with disabilities may be accommodated in a reasonable manner under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
What Else You Should Know:
Position Type:
Full-time, exempt
Supervisory Responsibility:
This position does not include primary supervision of other staff. However, may involve the supervision of legal assistants or interns depending on case specific needs.
Reports To:
DAP Managing Attorney
Timeline:
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Start date TBD.
Salary:
$61,500 - $75,800
Salary is commensurate with experience per CAIR Coalition salary scale.
Location
This position will be based from the Washington, D.C. or Baltimore, M.D. Office. Due to business related travel expectations, it is recommended candidates live within 30-miles of their assigned primary office.
Telework
All CAIR Coalition staff, interns, and volunteers are working a hybrid-work model (in-person and virtual/remote) as long as they are in compliance with CAIR Coalition's COVID-19 policies. Due to the duties and responsibilities of certain positions, certain staff members will be required to live within 30 miles of their assigned primary office.
COVID-19 Vaccination:
All employees are required to be fully vaccinated and boosted against COVID-19. To be fully vaccinated means having completed the full dosages required for the type of vaccine obtained as designated by the CDC. If boosters are subsequently recommended by the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) then employees will be required to receive the booster within thirty (30) days of their eligibility to access the boosters.
Benefits
CAIR coalition’s benefits package includes:
- Free gym access located in Washington, D.C.;
- Flexible working hours after successful completion of trainings and with approval of supervisor;
- Pre-tax commuter benefits for those living in the DMV;
- Subsidized health, dental insurance, and vision subsidized health, dental insurance, and vision insurance (CAIR Coalition pays a very high rate of the insurance package, for which we can provide additional information);
- An annual data reimbursement of $240
- life insurance valued at $50,000, as well as long and short term disability;
- the option to set up a Flexible Spending Account; and
- the option to set up a 403(b) account (the equivalent of a 401(k) account for non-profits) which the organization has the option, for all employees on an annual basis, to match at a certain percentage after one year of continuous employment.
Paid time off includes:
- 23 personal days per calendar year
- Up to 20 days of sick time per calendar year
- 7 hours of volunteer time
- Federal holidays
- Winter break closure
- 12 weeks of parental leave
How to Apply:
Submit your resume, a cover letter that explains your interest in this role, and a writing sample with your Paylocity application.
EEO Statement
Capital Area Immigrants’ Rights (CAIR) Coalition is an equal opportunity employer. In accordance with anti-discrimination law, it is the purpose of this policy to effectuate these principles and mandates. CAIR Coalition prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. CAIR Coalition conforms to the spirit as well as to the letter of all applicable laws and regulations.
Anti-Racism Statement:
https://www.caircoalition.org/cair-coalitions-statement-becoming-anti-racist-organization
Staff Attorney, Detained Children's Program
Who We Are:
CAIR Coalition fights every day alongside immigrant children and adults who are detained and facing deportation. We provide legal and social services to immigrants in the Capital Region and beyond. The Detained Children’s Program provides legal orientation and screening to detained migrant children detained in Maryland and Virginia. We also offer free legal services to children released from Office of Refugee Resettlement custody to the greater Washington/DC Baltimore region.
Role Description:
- A Staff Attorney in the Detained Children’s Program works collaboratively with staff and leadership to:
- provide high-quality, culturally competent direct legal services to detained and released unaccompanied immigrant children,
- coordinate and carry out visits to detention centers for the purpose of conducting legal intakes and Know Your Rights presentations to detained children,
- mentor pro bono attorneys providing legal services to unaccompanied immigrant children,
- contribute to the success of the program, building a culture of collaboration and learning, and
- promote a team culture of equity and inclusion.
General Duties and Responsibilities[1]:
Representation:
- Manage a caseload, with supervision, of direct legal representation of detained and released clients in removal proceedings before local state and immigration courts and USCIS in the following types of cases: Asylum, Withholding of Removal, Protection under the Convention against Torture, Special Immigrant Juvenile Status, U-Visas, and T-Visas.
- Participate in client intake and follow-up to determine eligibility for legal relief, facilitation of case placement with in-house or pro bono attorneys, and social services referrals.
- Remain abreast of new developments in the law by actively participating in legal trainings, reviewing written resources, and conducting legal research.
- Supervise legal assistants and interns on aspects of their work.
- Mentor pro bono attorneys from area law firms handling immigration cases, as needed.
- Handle own administrative tasks for casework (e.g., preparation and submission of filings, file maintenance, and recordkeeping).
Organizational Services:
- Participate in regular facility visits for the purpose of conducting legal intakes and know your rights (KYR) presentations for detained children.
- Ensure the timely and accurate entry of case information into shared databases.
- Assist other program staff in completion of their workload during high-work/low- bandwidth periods.
- Participate in stakeholder relationship activities, including meetings with community groups, government agencies, and other legal service providers
- Engage with internal CAIR Coalition committees and working groups to participate in the growth and strategy of the organization.
[1] This list is illustrative and not intended to be a complete classification of all job functions or tasks.
Our Work Environment:
CAIR Coalition’s Detained Children’s Program (DUCs) is a highly collaborative work environment. We are committed to providing high-quality, trauma-informed legal and social services and a culture of professional growth and support for staff. Although aspects of our work are completed in smaller teams, we work towards integrated and client-focused services across the program by embracing interconnectivity. We strive to create systems that provide structure while fostering innovation and adaptability. Supervisors in our program share a commitment to teaching, mentorship, and work life balance.
Competencies Required:
Legal Proficiency
The Staff Attorney demonstrates a developing understanding of legal concepts at a level that allows them to provide client-centered services to clients with moderate supervision. The Staff Attorney clearly and skillfully employs the law in written and oral presentations with limited input from supervisors. The Staff Attorney is working towards self-sufficiency in hearings, interviews, and legal research and writing.
Client and Programmatic Proficiency
The Staff Attorney satisfactorily handles all required programmatic obligations (including KYRs, legal intakes, follow-up interviewing, case placement, and direct representation services) with limited supervision. The Staff Attorney manages their in-house and pro bono mentoring caseload to allow for appropriate prioritization and thoughtful use of time and resources. The Staff Attorney demonstrates a growing understanding of cultural competency and trauma-informed practices. The Staff Attorney demonstrates sound judgment and decision-making skills and identifies when issues must be elevated to a supervisor.
Administrative
The Staff Attorney ensures that all administrative aspects of their position are carried out with minimal managerial support, including timekeeping, file maintenance, and database entries.
Qualifications Required:
- JD and 0-3 years relevant experience in immigration law (family law experience helpful but not required)
- Must be licensed to practice law in Maryland or Virginia, eligible to waive into the Maryland or Virginia bar, or willing to sit for the next scheduled bar exam
- Written and oral Spanish professional proficiency required; fluency preferred
- It is expected that the candidate will need to travel for work-related business. As a result, the candidate must possess a valid driver's license and be comfortable operating a vehicle upon hiring. This role requires travel, but qualified individuals with disabilities may be accommodated in a reasonable manner under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
- Favorable results on background check including driving record, Child Protection Registry, and state and federal criminal records
- Ability to work remotely temporarily but fulfill job responsibilities in-person as required.
What Else You Should Know:
Position Type
Full-time, exempt
Supervisory Responsibility
Opportunity to supervise paralegals
Reports To
Senior Attorney
Timeline
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
Salary
$61,500- $82,000 commensurate with experience
Location
This position will be based from the Washington, D.C. or Baltimore, M.D. Office.
Telework
All CAIR Coalition staff, interns, and volunteers are working a hybrid-work model (in-person and virtual/remote) as long as they are in compliance with CAIR Coalition's COVID-19 policies. Due to the duties and responsibilities of certain positions, certain staff members will be required to live within 30 miles of their assigned primary office.
COVID-19 Vaccination:
All employees are required to be fully vaccinated and boosted against COVID-19. To be fully vaccinated means having completed the full dosages required for the type of vaccine obtained as designated by the CDC. If boosters are subsequently recommended by the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) then employees will be required to receive the booster within thirty (30) days of their eligibility to access the boosters.
Benefits
CAIR coalition’s benefits package includes:
- Free gym access located in Washington, D.C.;
- Flexible working hours after successful completion of trainings and with approval of supervisor;
- Pre-tax commuter benefits for those living in the DMV;
- Subsidized health, dental insurance, and vision subsidized health, dental insurance, and vision insurance (CAIR Coalition pays a very high rate of the insurance package, for which we can provide additional information);
- An annual data reimbursement of $240
- life insurance valued at $50,000, as well as long and short term disability;
- the option to set up a Flexible Spending Account; and
- the option to set up a 403(b) account (the equivalent of a 401(k) account for non-profits) which the organization has the option, for all employees on an annual basis, to match at a certain percentage after one year of continuous employment.
Paid time off includes:
- 23 personal days per calendar year
- Up to 20 days of sick time per calendar year
- 7 hours of volunteer time
- Federal holidays
- Winter break closure
- 12 weeks of parental leave
How to Apply:
Submit your resume, a cover letter that explains your interest in this role, and a writing sample with your Paylocity application.
EEO Statement
Capital Area Immigrants’ Rights (CAIR) Coalition is an equal opportunity employer. In accordance with anti-discrimination law, it is the purpose of this policy to effectuate these principles and mandates. CAIR Coalition prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, homeless status, or any other characteristic protected by law. CAIR Coalition conforms to the spirit as well as to the letter of all applicable laws and regulations.
Anti-Racism Statement:
https://www.caircoalition.org/cair-coalitions-statement-becoming-anti-racist-organization
