ProBAR- Law Student Fellow- Adult

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 Organization

ProBAR empowers immigrants through high-quality legal information, representation, and connections to services. ProBAR 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, ProBAR’s primary office is located in Harlingen, TX with a field office in Houston, TX. For more information about ProBAR, please visit our website: https://abaprobar.org/

Job Summary/General Purpose of Job

Undertakes legal work for a grant-funded project and/or provides substantive support to an assigned section.  Fellowship assignments typically do not exceed two calendar months in duration. 

Essential Job Functions and Responsibilities

• Assists attorneys and paralegals with providing legal information and assistance to adult migrants in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facilities in South Texas.
• Conducts intakes and provides pro se assistance to adults in detention, either individually or as part of workshops.
• Participates in providing direct representation to individuals appearing before Immigration Court.
• Completes memoranda, briefs, or other documents.
• Works on immigration cases impacting others in the local community.
• Conducts legal research and writing on a variety of legal topics with a focus on immigration policy, law, and updates.
• Meets with clients and observes Immigration Court proceedings.
• Must have reliable internet and phone connection.
• Performs other related duties as required.

Required Education, Qualifications, Experience

• Possession of, or actively pursuing, a Juris Doctorate from an ABA-accredited law school.
• In accordance with the federal policies and contractor funding requirements, clearance of federal background checks will be required for this position. 

Preferred Qualifications

• Excellent communication skills.
• Spanish proficiency is strongly preferred.
• Applicants should have a demonstrated interest in nonprofit or social justice work.
• Experience working with immigrants or detained people is a plus.

Physical Requirements

Typical office work environment. 

Extent of Travel Required in the Job

As a normal course of business, this job may require travel locally 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
• PSLF participant

The Location

ProBAR’s main office is located 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! ProBAR’s new field office is located in Houston, Texas, a large and diverse metropolis.

The Application Process

Submit an online application including your cover letter and resume.