The American Bar Association (ABA) was founded on a commitment to advance the rule of law in the United States and beyond by providing practical resources for legal professionals, conducting law school accreditation, developing model ethics codes and more. Today, the ABA remains a member-based organization that works to ensure access to justice for all, a fair legal process, and respect for the rule of law at home and across the globe.

The ABA is committed to service and refining the standards that guide the legal profession. ABA staff are provided multiple types of continuing education and career development opportunities. Your work will help eliminate bias, enhance diversity, and advance the rule of law throughout the US and around the world.

The ABA recognizes the value staff contribute to our success through a generous benefits package that protects their health and their financial security. The ABA’s wide array of benefit offerings include 401(k), medical, dental, vision, flexible spending accounts, health spending accounts, supplemental life and disability insurance, prepaid legal programs, and a complimentary membership to the American Bar Association, which offers additional benefits.

Flexible/hybrid work arrangements may be available for residents of CA, DC, IL, IN, IA, MD, MI, MN, TX, VA, and WI. Residency requirements may apply. ABA employees are eligible to apply for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF).

The Paralegal works alongside attorneys, assisting with the preparation of legal filings and documents, and ensuring that children have the support they need as they pursue their immigration cases. The Paralegal is an integral part of a legal team that ensures children receive high-quality, compassionate, people-centered legal services and representation.

The Organization
Pro BAR empowers immigrants through high-quality legal information, representation, and connections to services. Pro BAR serves immigrants in the Rio Grande Valley and Houston regions with a particular focus on the legal needs of adults and unaccompanied children in federal custody. Founded in 1989 as a project of the American Bar Association, Pro BAR’s primary office is located in Harlingen, TX with a field office in Houston, TX. For more information about Pro BAR, please visit our website: https://abaprobar.org/

Job Summary / General Purpose of Job
Accountable for providing substantive case and court support to attorneys and accredited representatives. Prepares legal filings, and documents (e.g., client affidavits, pleadings, motions, etc.) as directed. This position will require regular involvement with individuals living in difficult circumstances and who may have experienced trauma.

Essential Job Functions and Responsibilities (listed in order of importance and/or time spent)

• Provides support and assistance to assigned legal staff. Prepares legal filings, and documents (e.g., immigration applications, correspondence, translations, etc.) as directed.
• Assesses the urgency of situations and determines appropriate actions, monitors status of pending items, and provides updates/feedback to appropriate legal team members.
• Oversees client case files as directed by staff attorneys and Accredited Representatives. Monitors case activities and maintains the data integrity of case management systems.
• Accesses, processes, and ensures the confidentiality and control of client information.
• Assists with referral of clients to pro bono counsel as directed. Conducts and assists with coordination and tracking of other legal services, as necessary.
• Performs other related duties as required.

Required Education, Qualifications, Experience

• Possession of an associate degree or higher education from an accredited U.S. institution in paralegal studies, criminal justice, political science or related field, or two years’ experience as a paralegal.
• Fluent in English and Spanish in written and spoken forms.
• Intermediate proficiency with online research and Microsoft Office products (Word, Excel, One Drive, teams)
• Must be familiar with conducting virtual meetings, training, and observations on software such as Zoom, Teams, etc.
• Must be able to pick up on client verbal and non-verbal cues.
• Must have reliable internet and phone connection.
• Must have reliable transportation to travel between office and off-site work locations.
• This position requires the ability to travel to and enter care provider facilities funded by the Office of Refugee Resettlement, Administration for Children and Families, United States Department of Health and Human Services which provide housing and services to unaccompanied children. This position will require the provision of legal services to unaccompanied children in such care provider facilities. In accordance with the federal regulation, background checks are required for this position.

Preferred Education, Qualifications, Experience

• Possession of a bachelor’s or higher degree in paralegal studies, criminal justice, political science, or related field, and 1 year work experience as a paralegal.
• Possession of a current certificate of completion of an ABA-approved paralegal program.
• Prior work experience with children, particularly from Central America and including Indigenous language- speaking populations.
• Prior volunteer, community, or work experience regarding immigration or detention.
• Prior non-profit experience, particularly involving immigration detention.

Physical Requirements
Typical office setting with frequent visits to immigration detention facilities and immigration court. Continuously operates a computer and other office machinery, such as telephone, copy machine, and computer printer.

Travel
As a normal course of business, this job will typically require travel of less than 15% of the time.

The Benefits and Incentives Offered

• Medical and prescription insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Voluntary life insurance
• Short- and long-term disability insurance
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Prepaid Legal Plan
• 401 (k)
• Paid company holidays
• Personal time off
• Vacation time off
• Self-care time off
• PSLF participant
• Sign on bonus offered*
• Relocation Stipend offered for in state and out of state relocation*
• Restrictions apply. Availability is subject to grant funding and may periodically change.

The Location
Pro BAR’s primary location is in the Rio Grande Valley, a thriving region that boasts a rich culture, affordable cost of living, subtropical climate, and beautiful natural areas to enjoy. Recent growth has brought the RGV unprecedented investments in higher education and scientific research. Three local airports connect RGV residents to destinations around the country while Mexico is only a short drive away. The region’s delicious food, world-class nature parks, and the beaches of South Padre Island provide ample opportunities to relax and recharge!

Our Houston field office is located in the Uptown District, that showcases the vibrant urban lifestyle in the heart of Houston. The Uptown District is home to The Galleria, Texas’ largest shopping center. In addition to being a pedestrian friendly city, you can get around with ease on the Metro Rapid Silver Line.

The Application Process
Submit an online application including your cover letter and resume.

The Salary
The starting hiring range for this position is $45,455.00 - $52,273.00 based on relevant experience and education.

The American Bar Association is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action Employer of all protected classes including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Women, minorities, veterans, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADAAA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with the American Bar Association, please call 956-365-3775 or contact applications@abaprobar.org.