Administrative Associate
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.
What you will Do
You will oversee ensuring smooth logistics and operations of onboarding, offboarding, data entry in accounting, and administration of the Operations team.
General Duties and Responsibilities1:
IT
- In coordination with Tech Impact and the HR Associate, assists with administrative IT onboarding and offboarding of staff and interns.
- Serves as the liaison with IT vendors regarding upkeep and maintenance of the office's phone, copier, fax machine, and other office equipment.
Accounting
- Prepare monthly credit card expense report for the Operations Manager.
- Uploads invoices to CAIR Coalition’s bill payment platform, bill.com.
- Updates and maintains vendors in bill.com
- Assist with the annual audit
Administrative
- Maintains and stocks printer room areas.
- Maintains inventory list of key cards for the Washington D.C. and Baltimore, MD office.
- Assists in preparation of monthly reports for the Detained Adult Program (DAP) and Detained Unaccompanied Program (DUCs)
- Open and distribute mail for the Baltimore and Washington D.C. Office.
- Gather information from staff on visitors expected in the Baltimore and Washington, D.C. Building each week and provide information to building security.
Other
- Takes on special projects as requested
- Assists with the office move scheduled to end on November 1, 2021.
What Else You Should Know:
Timeline:
Applications are due on August 10, 2021. The hiring manager will schedule initial interviews for the week of August 16. The start date for this position is September 7, 2021.
Salary
This is a full-time non-exempt position. The annual salary for this position is $46,600.
Travel
This position is required to work from the Washington, DC office on Tuesdays and Fridays. Travel to the Baltimore, MD office will be required on the second Tuesday of every month.
Position Location
Washington, DC
Telework
This is a full-time in-person position. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, all CAIR Coalition staff are currently working remotely. It is anticipated that staff will work from their respective offices on November 1, 2021. This date is subject to change.
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, 2021); 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
Requirements
- One to two years of administrative, bookkeeping, and technology managements is preferred.
- Demonstrated database management skills with ability to produce reports.
- Experience working in nonprofits is not required but is ideal
- Drivers license required.
- Excellent written and spoken communication skills.
- Strong organization and time management skills with the ability to prioritize and maintain deadlines.
- Strong desire to contribute to a team environment.
- Self Motivated.
- Willingness to take on practical and ad-hoc tasks and effectively face challenges as they arise.
How to Apply:
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.
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 free legal assistance to child and adult immigrants detained by the government in the Capital Region.
Position Summary
The Case Manager works in partnership with CAIR Coalition attorneys to safeguard the rights and dignity of all detained immigrants and provide critical case management for the National Qualified Representation Program (NQRP) clients with mental health diagnoses or other indicia of incompetency. This position engages with clients to advocate for their non-legal needs, with a specific focus on ensuring clients’ releases from detention are safely executed. The case manager serves three primary functions:
Case management: Coordinates and implements post-release plans for clients;
Community advocacy: Builds relationships with myriad community partners, detention center/jail staff, and volunteers;
Program coordination: Coordinates psychological evaluations across all of the Detained Adult Program and handles the stakeholder relationships with the evaluators.
General Duties and Responsibilities
- Assist CAIR Coalition attorneys in anticipating client needs upon release and incorporate appropriate resources into a post-release plan that is submitted to the court;
- Create and maintain relationships with social service providers in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area who can assist with housing, social services, mental health services, and substance abuse counseling for immigrants recently released from detention;
- Facilitate clients’ release from detention centers and implement the post-release plan;
- Maintain and update online social service database, and manage social service grants;
- Coordinate psychological and medical evaluations for clients;
- Support legal staff in resolving their detained clients’ social service needs;
- Enter all client-related notes into case management systems and maintain confidentiality;
- Collaborate with social service professionals on other CAIR Coalition teams to assist in the development of the social work program;
- 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.
What Else You Should Know:
Salary
Commensurate with experience working in legal services. The starting salary with one year of experience in legal services is $43,600.
Travel
This position may require travel during the COVID-19 pandemic, in accordance with all CAIR Coalition safety protocols.
Position Location
Washington, DC
Telework
This is a full-time in-person position. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, all CAIR Coalition staff are currently working remotely. It is anticipated that staff will work from their respective offices on November 1, 2021. This date is subject to change.
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, 2021); 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
Requirements
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree required, preference for a degree in social work, counseling or related field;
- Demonstrated interest in immigrants’ rights and assisting clients with mental health diagnoses;
- 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 release needs.
- Required: Proficiency in Spanish and valid driver’s license;
- Preferred: Proficiency in Microsoft Sharepoint and Salesforce; knowledge of immigration system; and knowledge of local community organizations and resources
To Apply:
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.
Fairfax Legal Assistant, 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 free legal assistance to child and adult immigrants detained by the government in the Capital Region.
Position Summary:
A legal assistant in the Detained Adult Program focuses on (i) the coordination and execution of visits to detention centers for the purpose of conducting know your rights presentation and intakes with detained adults, (ii) working with clients 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.
Interviews:
Interviews for this position will take place virtually between June 30, 2021- July 06, 2021 with a decision being made shortly after. New applications may not be considered.
General Duties and Responsibilities1:
Client Services:
- Participates in preparation and breakdown of detention facility visits.
- Conducts detention facility visits throughout Virginia and Maryland (normally 2-4 full visit days per month, including one overnight visit), for the provision of know your rights presentations and intake/follow-up.
- Assists with the recruitment and training of volunteers for jail visits, the jail hotline, or translation/interpretation volunteer work.
- Participates in intake review, additional case research, and preparing cases for pro bono placement.
- 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 administrative tasks, including database maintenance and reporting to funders.
- Actively engages in CAIR Coalition’s training and advocacy efforts, as needed.
- Interface with social services staff, where needed. Preparation of Post Release Plans and social service plans, in coordination with social services staff.
Organizational Services:
- Ensure the inputting and accuracy of data and case information into shared databases in a timely fashion.
- Help with the transfer of clients to other internal programs (e.g., NQRP, Lab, Safe Cities) and facilitation of pro bono attorney communications with detained clients.
- 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.
- Engage 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
Program-Specific Duties and Responsibilities:
Members of the Detained Adult Program, in addition to the responsibilities above, also:
- Provide pro se assistance to detained adults.
- Interfacing with the community of support for clients in advance of their case.
- Help with the transfer of clients to other internal programs (e.g., NQRP, Lab, Safe Cities).
- Engage with experts and social services on NQRP cases.
What Else You Should Know:
Salary
Commensurate with experience working in legal services. The starting salary with one year of experience in legal services is $43,600.
Travel
This position may require travel during the COVID-19 pandemic, in accordance with all CAIR Coalition safety protocols.
Position Location
Washington, DC
Telework
This is a full-time in-person position. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, all CAIR Coalition staff are currently working remotely. It is anticipated that staff will work from their respective offices on November 1, 2021. This date is subject to change.
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, 2021); 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
Competencies Required:
Legal Proficiency
The Legal Assistant will demonstrate understanding of basic relief eligibility to allow for meaningful contribution to client intake, follow-up, and casework with moderate supervision. The Legal Assistant works towards self-sufficiency in client-facing activities and demonstrates an advancing knowledge of trauma-informed practices. The Legal Assistant will demonstrate understanding of legal information versus advice. The Legal Assistant will demonstrate increasing understanding of preparing legal filings.
Client and Programmatic Proficiency
The Legal Assistant will skillfully and clearly present legal and proceeding concepts to detainees and clients with moderate supervision, including working with clients and their families/support community throughout the course of a case. The Legal Assistant will develop trauma-informed interviewing and rapport building skills. The Legal Assistant adequality prioritizes time and resources.
Administrative
The Legal Assistant ensures that all administrative aspects of their position, attendant to the provision of services to clients and jail visits, are carried out without managerial intervention, including jail visit preparation and breakdown, file upkeep, database upkeep, etc.
Qualifications Required:
- Written and oral Spanish fluency strongly preferred.
- Driver’s license required
How to Apply:
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.
Legal Assistant, Detained Adult Program (NQRP)
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.
Position Summary:
A legal assistant in the National Qualified Representation Program (NQRP) of theQRP Detained Adult Program (DAP) focuses on (i) working closely with attorneys and clients to prepare legal cases (ii) ensuring the completion of programmatic administrative duties; (iii) assisting with case preparation, paperwork, and data input and (iv) supporting the team’s provision of services as a whole.
NQRP is a federally-funded program that provides representation to individuals detained in ICE custody who are found to be incompetent by an Immigration Judge. Therefore, the client-facing duties of this legal assistant position will involve consistent interaction with individuals who have been diagnosed with a serious mental illness, intellectual disability, traumatic brain injury, and other serious health conditions.
General Duties and Responsibilities:
Client Services:
- Engage with clients and witnesses to gather information, assist attorney in developing legal theory, and draft witness statements;
- Obtain relevant criminal records, immigration records, and court documents from former attorneys, online databases, jails, and various agencies;
- Prepare documents to fax and mail to clients, monitor electronic fax inbox for NQRP correspondence;
- Electronically compile and print documents for filing evidence and prepare exhibits for submission to the court and other adjudicating agencies;
- Prepare immigration forms with clients to be submitted to court or other adjudicating agencies;
- Update Salesforce and SharePoint databases to reflect communication with clients, notes on cases, correspondences received, and other required fields;
- Research and prepare extensive country conditions evidence;
- Collect and analyze client’s medical records;
- Engage with case experts (i.e psychological and country conditions experts);
- Interface with Case Manager and Social Services Staff to prepare Post Release Plans and Social Services Plans.
Organizational/Administrative Services
- Ensure the inputting and accuracy of data and case information into shared databases in a timely fashion;
- Ensure the timely organization of physical and electronic case files;
- Directly support the Managing Attorney and Senior Legal Assistant in departmental organization, in particular:
- Ensuring case files are timely updated with received written and electronic correspondences;
- Assist in responding to community correspondence with the affected population and community stakeholders;
- Handle certain relationships and responsibilities with stakeholders, such as the Asylum Office, U-Visa Certifiers, jail staff and certain community organizations
- 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.
- Engage with internal CAIR Coalition committees and working groups to lend a voice to the growth and strategy of the organization.
- DAP voicemail, Adult account, Mail*, Office faxes and Tempfax*, U visa certifier database*, Ayuda Language Bank* (VS: See what it entails in the table below)
What Else You Should Know:
Salary
Commensurate with experience working in legal services. The starting salary with one year of experience in legal services is $43,600.
Travel
The legal assistant position may require some travel to the Washington D.C. and/or Baltimore MD office, and/or court during the COVID-19 pandemic. Staff will be expected to enter ORR facilities and state, or immigration courts should client-needs demand them before November 1, 2021. CAIR Coalition will provide its employees with personal protective equipment (PPE) per our COVID-19 policies.
Position Location
Washington, D.C.
Telework
This is a full-time in-person position. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, all CAIR Coalition staff are currently working remotely. It is anticipated that staff will work from their respective offices on November 1, 2021. This date is subject to change.
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, 2021); 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
- 1 day of volunteer time
- Federal holidays.
- Winter break closure
Requirements
Competencies Required:
Legal Proficiency
The Legal Assistant will demonstrate understanding of basic immigration relief to allow for meaningful casework with supervision. The Legal Assistant works towards self-sufficiency in client-facing activities and demonstrates an advancing knowledge of trauma-informed practices. The Legal Assistant will demonstrate increasing understanding of preparing legal filings.
Client and Programmatic Proficiency
The Legal Assistant will skillfully and clearly present some legal and proceeding concepts to detainees and clients with moderate supervision, including working with clients and their families/support community throughout the course of a case. The Legal Assistant will develop trauma-informed interviewing and rapport building skills. The Legal Assistant adequately prioritizes time and resources.
Administrative
The Legal Assistant ensures that all administrative aspects of their position, attendant to the provision of services to clients, are carried out upon receiving clear guidance from their case supervisor including file upkeep, database upkeep, etc.
Qualifications Required:
- Written and oral Spanish fluency strongly preferred proficiency required
- Driver’s license required
To Apply:
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.
Legal Assistant, Detained Adult Program (LOP)
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 the adult and children immigrants detained by the government in the Capital Region.
Position Summary:
A legal assistant in the Legal Orientation Program focuses on (i) the coordination and execution of visits to detention centers for the purpose of conducting know your rights presentation and intakes with detained adults, (ii) working with detained people 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.
General Duties and Responsibilities :
- Client Services:
- Participates in preparation and breakdown of detention facility visits.
- Conducts detention facility visits throughout Virginia and Maryland (normally 2-4 full visit days per month, including one overnight visit), for the provision of know your rights presentations and intake/follow-up.
- Assists with the recruitment and training of volunteers for jail visits, the jail hotline, or translation/interpretation volunteer work.
- Participates in intake review, additional case research, and preparing cases for pro bono placement.
- 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 administrative tasks, including database maintenance and reporting to funders.
- Actively engages in CAIR Coalition’s training and advocacy efforts, as needed.
- Interface with social services staff, where needed. Preparation of Post Release Plans and social service plans, in coordination with social services staff.
- Organizational Services:
- Ensure the inputting and accuracy of data and case information into shared databases in a timely fashion.
- Help with the transfer of clients to other internal programs (e.g., NQRP, Lab, Safe Cities) and facilitation of pro bono attorney communications with detained clients.
- 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.
- Engage with internal CAIR Coalition committees and working groups to lend a voice to the growth and strategy of the organization.
What Else You Should Know:
Salary
Commensurate with experience working in legal services. The starting salary with one year of experience in legal services is $43,600.
Travel
The legal assistant position may require some travel to the Washington D.C. and/or Baltimore MD office, and/or court during the COVID-19 pandemic. Staff will be expected to enter ORR facilities and state, or immigration courts should client-needs demand them before November 1, 2021. CAIR Coalition will provide its employees with personal protective equipment (PPE) per our COVID-19 policies.
Position Location
Washington, DC
Telework
This is a full-time in-person position. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, all CAIR Coalition staff are currently working remotely. It is anticipated that staff will work from their respective offices on November 1, 2021. This date is subject to change.
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, 2021); 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
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.
Client and Programmatic Proficiency
The employee adequately presents legal and proceeding concepts to detainees and clients with moderate supervision, including working with clients and their families/support community throughout the course of a case. The employee provides educational presentations to clients efficiently and effectively. 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 jail visits, are carried out without managerial intervention, including jail visit preparation and breakdown, file upkeep, database upkeep, etc.
Qualifications Required:
Written and oral Spanish proficiency required.
Driver’s license and willingness to drive long distances required.
To Apply:
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.
Legal Assistant, Detained Unaccompanied 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 on providing free legal assistance to child and adult immigrants detained by the government in the Capital Region.
Position Summary:
A Legal Assistant in the Detained Children’s Program focuses on (i) the coordination and execution of visits to detention centers for the purpose of conducting Know Your Rights presentations and intakes with detained children, (ii) working with detained and released clients 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.
General Duties and Responsibilities(1):
Client Services:
- Participates in preparation and breakdown of detention facility visits.
- Conducts detention facility visits in Virginia and Maryland (at least one per week), for the provision of Know Your Rights presentations and intake/follow-up.
- Participates in intake review, additional case research, and preparing cases for pro bono placement.
- Follows up after intakes to evaluate eligibility for relief from removal, including legal research, securing criminal records, and obtaining additional information from family members.
- Conducts administrative tasks, including database maintenance and reporting to funders.
- Supports attorneys representing detained and released clients before USCIS, Baltimore and Arlington Immigration Court 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, T-Visas, and Cancellation of Removal.
- Actively engages in CAIR Coalition’s training and advocacy efforts, as needed.
- Collaborates with social services staff to prepare social services and post-release plans.
Organizational Services:
- Ensure the inputting and accuracy of data and case information into shared databases in a timely fashion.
- Assist program staff in completion of their workload during high-work/low-bandwidth periods.
- Take part in stakeholder relationship activities, including meetings with community groups, governmental bodies and representatives, and other legal service providers.
- Engages with internal CAIR Coalition committees and working groups to participate in the growth and vision of the organization.
What Else You Should Know:
Salary
Commensurate with experience working in legal services. The starting salary with one year of experience in legal services is $43,600.
Travel
This position may require travel during the COVID-19 pandemic, in accordance with all CAIR Coalition safety protocols.
Position Location
Washington, DC
Telework
This is a full-time in-person position. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, all CAIR Coalition staff are currently working remotely. It is anticipated that staff will work from their respective offices on November 1, 2021. This date is subject to change.
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, 2021); 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
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
1 This list is illustrative and not intended to be a complete classification of all job functions
Requirements
Competencies Required:
Legal Proficiency
The Legal Assistant understands legal concepts at a level to allow for meaningful contribution to client intake, follow-up, and casework with moderate supervision. The Legal Assistant is working towards self-sufficiency in client-facing activities.
Client and Programmatic Proficiency
The Legal Assistant skillfully and articulately presents legal information and concepts to detainees and clients with moderate supervision, including working with clients and their families/support community throughout the course of a case. The Legal Assistant provides educational presentations to clients efficiently and effectively. The Legal Assistant prioritizes time and resources.
Administrative
The Legal Assistant ensures that all administrative aspects of their position are carried out without managerial intervention, including facility visit preparation and breakdown, and file and database upkeep, etc.
Qualifications Required:
- Written and oral Spanish fluency
- Driver’s license
- Favorable results on background check including driving record, Child Protection Registry, and state and federal criminal records
- Ability to work remotely temporarily
- Willingness to enter Office of Refugee Resettlement facilities, state courts and immigration courts to perform job functions when facilities and courts reopen.
- Preference for at least one year experience working with unaccompanied children, refugees or immigrants.
To Apply:
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.
Managing Legal Assistant, 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 free legal assistance to child and adult immigrants detained by the government in the Capital Region.
Position Summary:
A Managing Legal Assistant in the Detained Adult Program helps manage the program and legal assistants within the program, including (i) oversight of visits to detention centers for the purpose of conducting know your rights presentations and intakes with detained adults, (ii) working with clients and detained people representing themselves throughout the course of removal proceedings, including assisting with paperwork and case preparation, (iii) supporting the program’s provision of services as a whole, and (iv) supervision of junior staff with a focus on professional development.
General Duties and Responsibilities:
Client Services:
-
Helps oversee detention facility visits (LOP) program.
-
Oversees and guides detention facility visits throughout Virginia and Maryland to ensure effective and efficient provision of know your rights presentations and intake/follow-up.
-
Ensures that junior staff are effectively providing in-facility services.
-
Assists with the recruitment and training of volunteers for jail visits, the jail hotline, or translation/interpretation volunteer work.
-
Provides insightful input at intake review and conducts additional case research and preparation of cases for pro bono placement.
-
Provides follow-up after intakes to evaluate eligibility for relief from removal, including legal research, securing criminal records, and obtaining additional information from family members.
-
Help with the transfer of clients from the jail intake (LOP) team to other internal programs (e.g., NQRP, Lab, Safe Cities).
-
Conducts, can train and supervise other staff on administrative tasks, including database maintenance and reporting to funders.
-
Actively engages in CAIR Coalition’s training and advocacy efforts, as needed.
-
Interface with social services staff, where needed. Preparation of Post Release Plans and social service plans, in coordination with social services staff.
-
Trains new and junior staff on client-facing functions.
Organizational Services:
-
Ensure the inputting and accuracy of data and case information into shared databases in a timely fashion.
-
Assist program leadership in planning and implementation of program goals.
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Assist other program staff in completion of their workload during high-work/low- bandwidth periods.
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Participate in stakeholder relationship activities, including in-person and telephonic meetings with community groups, governmental bodies and representatives, and other legal service providers.
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Engage with internal CAIR Coalition committees and working groups to lend a voice to the growth and strategy of the organization.
Competencies Required:
Legal Proficiency
The Managing Legal Assistant (LA) will demonstrate firm understanding of relief eligibility to allow for meaningful contribution to client intake and thought leadership in discussion during intake review, follow-up, and casework with limited supervision. The Managing LA plays an active role in client relationships and can independently advance work on cases with attorney approval. The Managing LA demonstrates a mastery of understanding legal information versus advice and educate others on this distinction. The Managing LA is familiar with preparing client filings and can do so with limited attorney input.
Client and Programmatic Proficiency
The Managing LA will skillfully and clearly present legal and proceeding concepts to detained people and clients with limited or no supervision, including working with clients and their families/support community throughout the course of a case. The Managing LA provides educational presentations to clients efficiently and effectively. The Managing LA adequately prioritizes time and resources.
Administrative
The Managing LA ensures that all administrative aspects of their position, attendant to the provision of services to clients and jail visits, are carried out without managerial intervention, including jail visit preparation and breakdown, file upkeep, database upkeep, etc. The Managing LA independently leads projects to improve administrative systems to support intake, know your rights and direct representation work. The Managing LA identifies programmatic administrative needs and ideas to meet them.
Qualifications Required:
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Written and oral Spanish proficiency required.
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Prior experience working in the immigration field strongly preferred
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Driver’s license required
What Else You Should Know
Salary
Commensurate with experience working in legal services.
Position Location
Washington, DC
Travel
The managing legal assistant position may require some travel to the Washington D.C. and/or Baltimore MD office, and/or court during the COVID-19 pandemic. Staff will be expected to enter ORR facilities and state, or immigration courts should client-needs demand them before November 1, 2021. CAIR Coalition will provide its employees with personal protective equipment (PPE) per our COVID-19 policies.
Telework
This is a full-time in-person position. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, all CAIR Coalition staff are currently working remotely. It is anticipated that staff will work from their respective offices on November 1, 2021. This date is subject to change.
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, 2021); 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
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23 personal days per calendar year
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Up to 20 days of sick time per calendar year
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1 day of volunteer time
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Federal holidays.
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Winter break closure
To Apply:
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.
Senior Attorney - 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 free legal assistance to child and adult immigrants detained by the government in the Capital Region.
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.
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.
- Manage a caseload of in-house direct representation case and pro bono mentorship cases to ensure timely completion and submission of all filings, forms, etc.
- Preparation of 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 client visits at government detention centers depending on case specific needs. Supervise and oversee staff participation at jail visits.
- Conduct intakes with immigrants at the detention facilities or telephonically as needed. Provide necessary follow-up after intakes to ensure universal representation program eligibility, evaluate eligibility for relief, including performing research, securing criminal/juvenile delinquency records and obtaining additional information from family and community members.
Organizational Services:
- Assists program management on the implementation of long-term program plans and strategy focused on increasing access to counsel under a universal representation model.
- Ensures the inputting and accuracy of data and case information into shared databases in a timely fashion, including for supervised staff.
- Assist other program staff in completion of their workload during high-work/low bandwidth periods.
- Participates in stakeholder relationship activities, including in-person and telephonic meetings with community groups, governmental bodies and representatives, and other legal service providers.
- Conducts trainings and stakeholder meetings with detention center staff.
- Engages with internal CAIR Coalition committees and working groups to lend a voice to the growth and strategy of the organization.
- Undertakes 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.
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, Uni-Rep) to ensure all programs are kept abreast of developments and clients.
What Else You Should Know:
Salary
Commensurate with experience working in legal services. The starting salary is $65,300.
Travel
This position may require travel during the COVID-19 pandemic, in accordance with all CAIR Coalition safety protocols.
Position Location
Baltimore, MD
Telework
This is a full-time in-person position. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, all CAIR Coalition staff are currently working remotely. It is anticipated that staff will work from their respective offices on November 1, 2021. This date is subject to change.
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, 2021); 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
Requirements
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 relevant experience in immigration law.
- Must be licensed to practice law and in good standing with a state bar.
- Written and oral Spanish fluency is mandatory.
- Driver’s license required.
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.
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.
