POSITION: The Michigan Immigrant Rights Center (MIRC) is seeking candidates for a position as a Legal Assistant in our Detroit office focused on serving unrepresented, non-detained immigrants at the Detroit Immigration Court Helpdesk. The staff member will conduct individual and group information sessions, coordinate self-help workshops, perform friend of court services, and support pro bono efforts at the Detroit Immigration Court, at MIRC’s office, offsite, and virtually. This is a chance to join a talented team doing important and challenging work at a critical time.

DESCRIPTION OF PROGRAM: MIRC is a legal resource center for immigrant communities. The three pillars of our work are: (1) direct legal services, (2) systemic advocacy, and (3) community education and engagement. MIRC is part of Michigan Statewide Advocacy Services (MSAS), a non-profit law firm providing free legal services to low income and senior persons through several statewide programs. MSAS is administered by the Michigan Advocacy Program (MAP), which provides access to the justice system for those who need it the most through civil legal aid offices and statewide advocacy programs. MAP’s mission is to advance the safety, independence, and economic stability of those most affected by poverty, racism, and other structurally oppressive systems by increasing access to justice and working for systemic solutions. Visit michiganimmigrant.org and miadvocacy.org for more information.

RESPONSIBILITIES: The legal assistant will assist with all aspects of MIRC’s Helpdesk work: intake; conducting and coordinating individual and group information sessions, self-help workshops, friend of court services, and pro bono efforts; development of legal materials and documents; reporting; and more.

QUALIFICATIONS: An associate’s degree or commensurate professional experience is required; a bachelor’s degree is preferred. Applicants must possess excellent communication, collaboration, analytical and problem‐solving skills as well as a demonstrated commitment to protecting the rights of immigrants or other persons in poverty. Candidate must be detail-oriented with strong organizational skills. Candidates must be proficient with major software and web services including Word, Excel, G Suite, and have access to a reliable internet connection if they intend to work remotely some of the time. Applicants who have experience, especially related to immigration and poverty, will receive priority. No prior legal experience required. Spanish language proficiency required.

BENEFITS: This is a full-time position with a salary starting at $42,480 and based on relevant experience. MAP offers a generous benefits package including life, short- and long-term disability, health, vision, dental and flexible spending accounts. If staff do not require health benefits, they have the option to take an annual $1,500 payout in addition to the base salary paid over the course of the year. MAP also has a generous leave policy allowing staff to accrue 3 weeks paid vacation the first year and 13 paid holidays, as well as an annual 2% contribution and 2% match to retirement plan subject to board approval for eligible staff. MAP is a qualifying employer for Public Service Loan Forgiveness.

HOW TO APPLY:

Complete this application form: cc/MIRCJOBS and email a cover letter that confirms your qualifications, your current resume, and a list of three professional references to jobs@michiganimmigrant.org with “MIRC Legal Assistant for Helpdesk” in the subject line.

Applications will be considered on a rolling basis until the positions are filled.

MSAS is an equal opportunity employer, committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace.