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 Staff Attorneys for ProBAR's Children's Team advocate for and serve some of the highest numbers of detained unaccompanied children nationally. Staff Attorneys orient, educate, and represent children seeking humanitarian immigration relief, support unrepresented children appearing before the immigration court, and connect children with advocates and other supportive services as needed.
The Legal Orientation Program for Custodians (LOPC) Staff Attorney will also provide legal orientations to custodians of unaccompanied children, identify legal and non-legal service providers, develop materials and resources, and make referrals for unaccompanied children to seek legal representation. Shelters and supportive housing help establish personal support systems for youth building their lives in the United States. This attorney will work closely with ProBAR's Release Support Department to empower immigrants through connection to services and is critical to ProBAR's holistic approach to serving our clients.
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:
Job Summary / General Purpose of Job
Accountable for providing legal services to detained and locally released unaccompanied children in immigration removal proceedings, in the border region. Accountable for providing legal orientations to custodians of unaccompanied children, identifying legal and non-legal services providers, developing materials and resources, and making legal referrals and referrals for wraparound services for released unaccompanied children and their sponsors. This position will require regular involvement with individuals living in difficult circumstances and who may have experienced trauma.
Essential Job Functions and Responsibilities (listed in order of importance and/or time spent)
Required Education, Qualifications, Experience
Preferred Education, Qualifications, Experience
Physical Requirements
Travel
As a normal course of business, this job will typically require travel of less than 15% of the time.
Benefits and Incentives Offered
*Restrictions apply
The Location
ProBAR's primary location is 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 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, , and the beaches of provide ample opportunities to relax and recharge!
Our Houston field office is located in the Uptown District, that showcases the vibrant urban lifestyle in the heart of Houston. The Uptown District is home to , Texas' largest shopping center. In addition to being a , you can get around with ease on the .
The Application Process
Submit an online application including your cover letter and resume.
The Salary
The starting hiring range for this position is $72,236.00 - $85,319.50 based on relevant experience and education.
The American Bar Association is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action Employer of all protected classes including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Women, minorities, veterans, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADAAA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with the American Bar Association, please call 956-365-3775 or contact .