Managing Attorney (Asylum Project)

Texas RioGrande Legal Aid (TRLA) seeks to hire a managing attorney to oversee a project that works with mothers and their children who are seeking asylum and prepares them for their credible fear interviews. The mothers and children are fleeing from the highest levels of violence in the Western Hemisphere. They have suffered traumatic experiences, including sexual assault, robbery, extortion, death threats, and other acts of violence, in Honduras, El Salvador, Guatemala. Almost all of the refugees are unable to navigate the process without the professional assistance of trained lawyers and paralegals.    Duties:   The experienced attorney will oversee and manage advocates working on the project.  The candidate must be self-directed, creative, and motivated.  Among other duties, the attorney will:
• Develop specialized knowledge of asylum law and expedited removal;
• Interview detained families and conduct intake;
• Evaluate eligibility for relief from removal;
• File motions for custody redetermination;
• Assist and counsel individuals seeking asylum, including preparing for credible fear interviews and Immigration Judge review of a negative decision by an Asylum Officer;
• Collaborate with current community partners and form new partnerships;
• Supervise and work with attorneys, legal paraprofessionals and volunteers;
• Maintain accurate and complete client files and administrative records; and
• Fulfill all requirements necessary to remain in good standing with the State Bar and the Supreme Court of the applicable state, including but not limited to, compliance with the minimum requirements for Continuing Legal Education.