Paralegal

The Paralegal provides administrative, case management, and case preparation support for the Center for Immigration & Citizenship Legal Assistance (CICLA). This position assists with client intake, information gathering, document collection, file maintenance, immigration form preparation, case tracking, and client communications. Working under the supervision of DOJ Accredited Representatives, the Paralegal supports immigration legal services while ensuring compliance with agency policies, ethical standards, and DOJ Recognition & Accreditation Program requirements.

The Paralegal plays a key role in helping immigrant individuals and families access quality legal services by providing organized, compassionate, and culturally responsive support in alignment with the mission and values of Catholic Charities.

What We're Looking For:

• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple cases and deadlines simultaneously.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with a commitment to providing exceptional client service.
• Ability to work effectively with diverse populations, including immigrants, refugees, and vulnerable communities.
• A collaborative team member who can maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment.
• Knowledge of case management, records maintenance, and document preparation practices.
• Passion for Catholic Charities' mission and commitment to serving the community with dignity and respect.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while maintaining accuracy and professionalism.

Key Responsibilities and Duties:

• Conduct client intake interviews and gather information for immigration matters.
• Assist clients in completing intake questionnaires and collecting required documentation.
• Maintain communication with clients regarding appointments, documentation requests, and authorized case updates.
• Schedule consultations, follow-up appointments, and client meetings.
• Prepare draft immigration forms, application packets, and supporting documentation for practitioner review.
• Draft correspondence, affidavits, declarations, cover letters, and other supporting documents.
• Organize and assemble filing packets and supporting evidence.
• Maintain accurate case notes and documentation within the agency's case management system.
• Create, organize, and maintain electronic and physical client files.
• Monitor filing deadlines, biometrics appointments, interviews, Requests for Evidence (RFEs), and other case milestones.
• Track case progress and ensure timely follow-up on pending matters.
• Receive, review, and process incoming client correspondence and government notices.
• Identify matters requiring legal analysis and promptly refer those matters to a DOJ Accredited Representative.
• Refer all legal questions, eligibility determinations, requests for legal advice, and case strategy decisions to authorized practitioners.
• Assist with program reporting, outcome tracking, and data collection.
• Support grant reporting and documentation requirements.
• Assist with legal clinics, citizenship workshops, community outreach events, and educational activities.
• Maintain client confidentiality and compliance with all agency policies and ethical standards.
• Demonstrate cultural sensitivity and professionalism when interacting with clients, staff, volunteers, partners, and the public.
• Incorporate and promote the mission, vision, and values of Catholic Charities in daily work activities.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications Required:

Experience:

• Minimum of two (2) years of experience in immigration legal services, legal support, case management, human services, or a related field preferred.
• Experience preparing immigration applications and supporting documentation preferred.
• Experience working with immigrant, refugee, and vulnerable populations preferred.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and case management databases required.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and manage sensitive client information.
• Must be able to pass a comprehensive background check.

Education:

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Associate Degree in Paralegal Studies, Legal Studies, Human Services, Social Services, or a related field preferred.
• Paralegal Certificate preferred.
• Equivalent combination of education, training, and experience may be considered.
• Bilingual English/Spanish.