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

About the Role

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 through document organization, deadline monitoring, and checklist management. Maintains, indexes, and files documents for record-keeping purposes. Organizes and maintains documents in both paper and office case management systems. Manages a hotline and responds to communications from individuals seeking immigration unit representation. Collaborates closely with mitigation specialists, case workers, mental health professionals, and community advocates when appropriate. Performs other Immigration Unit duties as assigned. This position works solely on immigration-related functions.

Responsibilities

• Provide case-specific legal advice to Assistant Public Defenders for noncitizen clients.
• Support Immigration Unit attorneys through document organization, deadline tracking, and checklist management.
• Maintain, index, and file case-related documents for record-keeping.
• Organize and manage documents in both physical and digital case management systems.
• Operate and respond to a hotline for individuals seeking immigration representation.
• Collaborate with mitigation specialists, case workers, mental health professionals, and community advocates.
• Conduct legal research using both paper and electronic resources.
• Interview clients and their families to evaluate relevant case information.
• Prepare concise written analyses of assigned case materials.
• Perform additional Immigration Unit duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with an Associate’s degree and two (2) years’ full-time work experience as a Paralegal and proficiency in Spanish (verbal and written).
• OR successful completion of a certified paralegal training program accredited by the American Bar Association and two (2) years’ full-time work experience as a Paralegal and proficiency in Spanish (verbal and written).
• At the time of the interview, candidates may be required to complete an exercise demonstrating Spanish translation proficiency.
• Degrees awarded outside the United States (except those from U.S. territories or Canada) must be credentialed by an approved U.S. credential evaluation service (NACES or AICE). Original credentialing documents must be presented at the time of interview.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship.
• Successful completion of post-offer tests, including a background check, drug screen, and medical examination.

Skills & Qualifications

• Extensive knowledge and use of legal research databases (e.g., Lexis-Nexis).
• Thorough knowledge of immigration and/or criminal law.
• General knowledge of record-keeping, report preparation methods, and legal procedures.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and legal research software.
• Strong database management and organizational skills.
• Ability to articulate concise written analyses of case materials.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, with professionalism and tact.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple projects under tight deadlines, and prioritize caseloads.
• Detail-oriented with strong multitasking abilities.
• Commitment to maintaining confidentiality of attorney-client relationships.
• Ability to identify relevant judicial decisions, statutes, and other legal materials.

Physical Requirements

Light Work: Involves exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally or up to 10 pounds frequently. Requires significant walking or standing, or sitting while operating arm/leg controls, or working at a production-rate pace with negligible weight.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Basic term life insurance.
• Pension plan.
• Deferred compensation program.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Paid holidays, vacation, and sick time.
• Voluntary benefits.
• Eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF).

For more details on benefits, visit Cook County Benefits.

Pay

$46.267 per hour.

Additional Information

• Hybrid work environment available for eligible employees, allowing telecommuting and flexible scheduling.
• Veteran’s preference applies for honorably discharged veterans with qualifying service. Veterans must provide a DD 214, DD 215, or NGB 22 (or certified separation documents for Coast Guard) at the time of application.