Immigration Attorney for Victims of Human Trafficking and Domestic Violence

Outreach and Support to Special Immigrant Populations (OSSIP) is a comprehensive assistance program for survivors of human trafficking. OSSIP provides intensive case management and legal services, assisting survivors in obtaining the benefits to which they may be entitled under the Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000 (TVPA). The OSSIP legal team works closely with the OSSIP social service team to provide quality services to the clients in our care. Catholic Charities also has a program providing immigration legal services to victims of domestic violence (DV). Currently, this position is .5 OSSIP and .3 DV.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities

OSSIP/DV:

1. The attorney will provide direct legal services to victims, which may include:

• Providing legal counseling to victims on immigration options • Representing clients before the U.S. Department of Homeland Security in applications such as T-Visas, U visas, asylum, employment authorization, etc. • Representing clients in removal proceedings in Immigration Court.

2. Ensure that all assigned legal services are provided in accordance with applicable State and Local regulatory requirements, Catholic Charities Board Policies, Social Service Division Policies, and the Catholic Charities Code of Ethics and Code of Conduct.

3. Effectively represent Catholic Charities at community functions and at other events as requested or needed - presenting on immigration benefits available to victims of domestic violence and human trafficking.

4. Other duties as assigned by the Immigration Program Manager.

OSSIP specific:

5. The attorney will, either directly or through assigned staff, serve as the first point of contact for all trafficking related calls, both from potential victims and from referring law enforcement, social service and health care professionals when trafficking victims are identified.

6. In coordination with the OSSIP Program Coordinator, the attorney will assist in the development of trainings on human trafficking for social service providers, attorneys, law enforcement personnel, health care providers, leaders in the faith communities, and other individuals and professionals who are likely to come into contact with victims of trafficking.

7. In coordination with the OSSIP Program Coordinator, the attorney will participate in the Anti-Human Trafficking Law Enforcement Task Force and the Oregon Coalition to Combat Trafficking in Persons.

Qualifications

1. JD degree from an accredited law school and admission to bar in any state.

2. Minimum one year experience practicing immigration law preferred.

3. Sensitivity to and experience with crime victims. An ability to convey concern and establish a trusting, caring relationship with clients by way of active listening and supportive communication.

4. Proven written and oral communications skills in English and Spanish, preferred.

5. Proficiency using immigration forms software; general computer skills required.

6. Must demonstrate some degree of cultural competency - possessing a working understanding of Latino cultures - specifically peoples immigrating from Mexico and Central America.

7. Experience with low-income and culturally diverse populations.

8. Experience or willingness to work with law enforcement systems and personnel.

9. Ability to work independently, as well as coordinate and communicate openly as a member of the OSSIP team.

10. Ability to work well under pressure.

11. Must have a valid drivers license and automobile insurance coverage at or above levels required by the agency.

Salary: Range 6 $26,400 - $28,000 (Annual, .8 FTE) with benefits.

POSITION IS LOCATED IN PORTLAND, OREGON

CLOSING DATE: January 15, 2010

Please send application, resume, writing sample and cover letter: Catholic Charities Human Resources 231 SE 12th Ave. Portland, OR 97214 or fax to: (503) 231-4327

Please see website for job application: www.catholiccharitiesoregon.org Equal Opportunity Employer