Due to the high-demand of Immigration Law services in South Florida, St. Thomas University Human Rights Institute will be expanding its services to Broward County (Margate Office) and Palm Beach County (Palm Springs Office). We will be opening two new offices in the respective counties as of October 2007. And are in need of good candidates for various positions.



Staff Attorney

JOB DESCRIPTION

This is a highly specialized position requiring extensive knowledge of immigration and asylum law and the ability to work cooperatively with other staff in a fast-paced work environment.

Provide legal assistance to non-citizens on a case by case basis ensuring compliance with all applicable federal and state laws.

Supervise any assigned paralegal, translator, and clerical staff of the Program during the day-to-day activities relating to the attorney’s duties. For example, ensure that his or her clients are scheduled properly with enough time to properly prepare the clients, and supervise staff in the completion of special projects as needed.

Interview clients, prepare, review, and edit asylum applications. Supplement with documentary evidence.

Prepare and represent clients for immigration benefits interviews before the Executive Office of Immigration Review (EOIR), the asylum unit, and the Miami District Office of USCIS.

Comply with departmental and University safety rules and regulations.

Serve on University committees as requested.

Assist immediate supervisor with other professional duties as assigned.

Routine assignments are performed independently following University and departmental policies and procedures.

J.D. Degree and Membership in the Florida Bar required. Significant knowledge of human rights and immigration law and policies required. Experience with preparation and representation of relevant immigration applications (e.g., residence, work permits).

Experience with other areas of immigration and related areas of law preferred. Experience with working with non-citizens, particularly Haitian or Cuban clients, preferred. Foreign language proficiency required; fluency in Haitian/Creole or Spanish preferred. Computer literacy required. Position may require travel and irregular work hours. Works regularly with information requiring utmost discretion and integrity. Professional appearance and demeanor including experience in meeting the public and dealing with people using patience and courtesy. High degree of poise and tact to represent the Institute positively in contacts of importance to the Institute. Must have demonstrated ability to handle difficult and sensitive situations. Must be self-starter, able to work under pressure, and meet established deadlines. Physical requirements are within the normal bounds of an office environment.



Please send Resumes and Cover Letters by September 15th, 2007.



BENEFITS:

* Health/Dental Insurance

*Paid Holidays

*Vacation and Sick Days

*Tuition Benefit (at St. Thomas University after 6 months of employment)



Thank you very much for you time. Feel free to forward this posting to potential candidates.