Kids in Need of Defense (KIND) is a global leader in the protection of unaccompanied and separated children who are forcibly displaced from their countries of origin. Launched in 2008, KIND champions a world in which every child’s rights and well-being are protected throughout their journey to safety. Building on its extensive programming and successful model in the United States, KIND is expanding in the Americas and Europe to bring its experience to bear in working with unaccompanied and separated children. Our work focuses on addressing the legal and mental health needs of this population; building strong partnerships and engaging in training and capacity strengthening with governments, NGOs, and the private sector; and advocating for systemic and pragmatic reforms to advance the rights of unaccompanied and separated children.
Position Summary
KIND’s International Program seeks a Legal Intern for the Fall semester of 2024 (approximate dates are 8/26/2024 to 12/6/2024) to support the Central American Minors (CAM) Assistance Program in providing pro bono legal support to families seeking family reunification. The exact hours and schedule will be discussed during interviews or prior to the start of the internship. The anticipated start date for this internship is August 26, 2024. KIND’s preference is for the intern to commit to 15 weeks for 12-16 hours. This internship is unpaid but may be pursued for academic credit. We are happy to assist with work-study and funding from external sources is welcomed.
Essential Functions
- Supporting the preparation of CAM applications for qualifying parents and legal guardians: Prepare Affidavits of Relationship (AORs) and collect supporting evidence; Review immigration records to assess eligibility.
- Client Engagement: Schedule screenings with prospective parents and legal guardians; observe and conduct eligibility screenings; conduct routine client correspondences, counsel parents and legal guardians regarding the CAM program, and provide closing information directly to participating U.S. ties.
- Legal Research: Research topics related to CAM eligibility and refugee program access.
- Case Management: Maintain data management system through data entry, such as tracking court hearing dates and deadlines case activities, client communications, and case referrals.
- Develop Resource Materials: Prepare and update case management tools, training materials, pro bono guides, practice advisories, and pro se materials.
- Programmatic Support: Participate in special projects for KIND attorneys and staff.
- Translation and Interpretation: Interpret at client meetings or legal screenings; and translate documents, such as birth, marriage, death certificates, client correspondences, or other Spanish-written documents.
- Meetings: Attend weekly virtual staff meetings, legal trainings, and presentations, if available.
- Community Outreach: Present virtual information sessions to legal advocates and community organizations.
Qualifications and Requirements
- Must be currently enrolled in an accredited JD or LLM program.
- Must be fluent in Spanish and English (oral and written).
- Exceptional academic credentials, strong writing skills, and attention to detail.
- Experience in immigration and family law is strongly preferred.
- Experience working with children and survivors of trauma is preferred.
- Must be passionate about issues affecting unaccompanied immigrant children.
- Ability to work within an office environment and have regular interaction via telephone, videoconference, IM, and email with KIND's team.
Application Instructions
To apply, please submit a resume and cover letter online. Applications that do not contain all of the above-listed required materials will not be considered. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis until the position is filled, and applicants selected for interviews will be duly notified. Please no inquiries or phone calls.
Externship requirements – if you are planning to complete an externship for academic credit, please indicate this in your cover letter.
KIND has an organization-wide commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We strive to create a work environment where everyone has a sense of belonging. Individuals from historically underrepresented or underserved communities are strongly encouraged to apply.
Disclaimer: KIND is committed to an ethical recruitment and hiring process and maintains a firm “no fees” recruitment policy. We will never charge a fee or ask for money as part of the application process. KIND also conducts all interviews via telephone or video conference, and at no time will KIND engage in a text or mobile app-based application or interview process. For more information, please visit the following website: https://supportkind.org/join-the-team/kind-employment-practices/.
United States only
