IMMIGRATION UNIT PARALEGAL - BILINGUAL SPANISH -AFSCME 3696 (OFFICE OF THE PUBLIC DEFENDER)

Job Summary

Under the supervision of the Immigration Unit Attorney Supervisor, provides case-specific advice to Assistant Public Defenders representing noncitizen clients, as required by the Supreme Court's decision in Padilla v. Kentucky. Supports the Unit's Padilla attorney's work and contemplated direct representation work through the organization of documents, the monitoring of deadlines and the management of checklists. Maintains, indexes and files documents for record keeping purposes. Organizes and maintains documents in paper and in office case management system. Maintains hotline and responds to communications from individuals seeking immigration unit representation. Works closely with mitigation specialists; case workers; mental health professionals; and community advocate, when appropriate. Performs other Immigration unit duties as assigned. This position will work solely on immigration related functions. 

Minimum Qualifications

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with an Associate’s degree. 
• Two (2) years’ full-time work experience as a Paralegal.
• Must communicate in Spanish (both in verbal and written formats).

                                                 -OR-

• Successful completion of a certified paralegal training program accredited by the American Bar Association. 
• Two (2) years’ full-time work experience as a Paralegal.
• Must communicate in Spanish (both in verbal and written formats).

**At the time of the interview, candidates may be required to complete an exercise demonstrating Spanish translation proficiency level.  This exercise will be a part of the selection process. 

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Other Characteristics

Extensive knowledge and use of legal research databases. 
Thorough knowledge of immigration and/or criminal law. 
General knowledge of record keeping and report preparation methods, practices and procedures. 
Strong skills utilizing Microsoft Word, Excel and Lexis-Nexis software and/or the latest software used for legal research. 
Skill conducting legal research methods utilizing both paper and electronic resources. 
Skill interviewing, obtaining facts and evaluating relevant information from clients and their families. Strong database management skills. 
Ability to clearly articulate through written documents concise analysis of assigned case material. Ability to communicate effectively with tact and courtesy and to conduct oneself in a professional manner.

Ability to be able to work on multiple projects under tight deadlines. 
Ability to organize and prioritize caseloads, calendar, and work assignments. Ability to gather information and communicate Office procedures. 
Ability to work independently. 
Ability to identify relevant judicial decisions, statutes, and other pertinent material. Detail-oriented with the ability to multi-task. 
Strong organizational skills. 
Commitment to maintaining confidentiality of attorney-client relationship. Excellent oral communication and writing skills. 

Physical Requirements

Light Work

Light Work involves exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally or up to 10 pounds of force frequently, or a negligible amount of force constantly to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects. Even though the weight lifted may be only a negligible amount, a job/occupation is rated Light Work when it requires: (1) walking or standing to a significant degree; (2) sitting most of the time while pushing or pulling arm or leg controls; or (3) working at a production rate pace while constantly pushing or pulling materials even though the weight of the materials is negligible.

The duties listed are not set forth for purposes of limiting the assignment of work.  They are not to be construed as a complete list of the many duties normally to be performed under a job title or those to be performed temporarily outside an employee's normal line of work.

Degrees awarded outside of the United States with the exception of those awarded in one of the United States’ territories and Canada must be credentialed by an approved U.S. credential evaluation service belonging to the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) or the Association of International Credential Evaluators (AICE).  Original credentialing documents must be presented at time of interview.

Group and Voluntary Benefits Offered:

·       Medical, Dental, and Vision
·       Basic Term Life Insurance
·       Pension Plan
·       Deferred Compensation Program
·       Employee Assistance Program
·       Paid Holidays, Vacation, and Sick Time
·       Voluntary Benefits
·       You May Qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF)
·       For further information on our excellent benefits package, please click on the following link: http://www.cookcountyrisk.com/
·       For eligible employees the County has a hybrid work environment which allows employees telecommuting and flexible scheduling options.

Salary Range: $46.267/Hourly

Please contact [email protected]  for inquiries about this position