Position:

The Children's Program Staff Attorney will provide direct legal representation to unaccompanied children in ORR custody, as well as unaccompanied children released from ORR custody and those placed in the Unaccompanied Refugee Minor program. In addition, this individual will assist unaccompanied children with Know-Your-Rights presentations, individual consultations, courtroom assistance, advocacy for release of children approaching their eighteenth birthday, and referrals to other legal service providers and pro bono partners. RMIAN will consider applications from licensed attorneys, as well as those who will have a juris doctor degree by June 2023 who take the July 2023 bar exam. This position is meant for an advocate who is exceptionally organized and efficient, who is compassionate and sensitive in working with traumatized children, who enjoys working on a team, and who is proactive and can work independently. This is an ideal position for someone who wants to work closely with unaccompanied children and to provide them with high-quality legal representation and legal services.

 

Responsibilities:

• Provide Know-Your-Rights presentations at the ORR facilities in Westminster, Colorado within 10 business days of children’s arrival.
• Conduct an individual legal screening with each child in ORR custody within 10 business days of their arrival. Conduct follow up screening and meetings with children as necessary pre- and post-release.
• Prepare unaccompanied children for court appearances, serve as Friend of Court for unrepresented children, and provide accurate, current updates to the Court on the child’s reunification process or other release plans from the shelter.
• Provide direct representation and file all relevant relief applications for unaccompanied children in ORR custody, unaccompanied children released from ORR custody, and Unaccompanied Refugee Minors.
• Prepare and file requests for release and post-release plans for children reaching their eighteenth birthday.
• Timely refer released children to alternate legal service providers upon their release to another state.
• Prepare and file changes of address and changes of venue for all children released to another state.
• Refer particularly vulnerable children to the Young Center for child advocacy services and support.
• Ensure all documentation and data is timely entered into required databases and monthly reports.

Qualifications:

• Admission to any state bar or commitment to sitting for the July 2023 bar exam.
• English & Spanish fluency strongly preferred – both oral and written. 
• Proof of vaccination against COVID-19, or proof of eligibility for exception.

How to Apply:

Send a tailored, authentic cover letter that explains why RMIAN’s mission excites you and  why this particular role is a fit for you, along with your resume, a writing sample of no more than 10 pages, and a list of three professional references to hr@rmian.org.