Paralegal InternChinese Mutual Aid Association (CMAA) is seeking a mission-driven and detail-oriented Paralegal Intern to support its Citizenship & Immigration Programs. This unpaid internship is designed to provide an educational experience in immigration law within a nonprofit setting. Interns will gain hands-on exposure to legal services provided to immigrant and refugee communities and receive supervision and mentorship from legal professionals.
This role complies with federal and state labor standards for unpaid internships.RequirementsAssist with client intake and eligibility screening for immigration legal servicesSupport the preparation of USCIS forms, applications, and petitions (e.g., legal permanent residency, temporary protected status, employment authorizations, naturalization, adjustment of Status, etc.)Conduct legal and policy research related to immigration lawMaintain and organize confidential case filesPrepare client data to enter into constituent relationship management systems (databases) and compile support documentation for grant complianceObserve legal consultations and immigration-related workshops (if available)Attend relevant training and complete a final reflection or capstone projectQualificationsCurrently enrolled in or a recent graduate of a paralegal studies, pre-law, law school, or related academic programStrong research, writing, clerical, and organizational skillsInterest in immigration law and working with diverse communitiesCultural competence and commitment to confidentialityFluency in another language (e.g., Mandarin, Cantonese, Vietnamese, Burmese, Lao, Thai, Spanish, Arabic, Hindi, Urdu) is a plusProficiency with MS Office Word, Excel, and PowerPoint; Google for Business; Adobe PDF, and databasesMust intern a minimum of 15 hours per week for 12 weeksWork EnvironmentThis is a largely sedentary role; however, filing is required. This could require the ability to lift files, open filing cabinets, and bend or stand on a stool as necessary.Physical DemandsThis is a largely sedentary role; however, filing is required. This could require the ability to lift files, open filing cabinets, and bend or stand on a stool as necessaryPerksAcademic credit (if applicable)Training and mentorship by legal professionalsExposure to immigration legal work in a nonprofit settingFlexible scheduling based on academic or personal needsLetter of recommendation upon successful completionChinese Mutual Aid Association provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.