The Central American Resource Center (CARECEN) Legal Services Department seeks an attorney to
work on direct legal assistance, public education, and pro bono recruitment in the area of immigration
and community legal services.
CARECEN was established in 1981 to protect the rights of refugees from conflict in Central America
and provide direct legal services that would ease their transition. Over time the organization has
evolved and grown with the population into broader areas of community service and economic
development, establishing itself as a strong advocate on critical policy issues related to immigration,
housing, and civil rights. CARECEN’s programs are available to low- and moderate-income Latinos
in the Washington Metropolitan area. CARECEN serves individuals through direct legal, housing,
citizenship and community support services and engages in broader community outreach and
education.
Position Overview: CARECEN is looking for a dynamic attorney experienced in immigration law
and community advocacy to work under the supervision of the Legal Services Director to provide
direct immigration-related Legal Services and community outreach by:
▪ Providing direct legal assistance to clients primarily in matters of Immigration Law. These legal
services include direct legal interviews of clients, conducting intake on a weekly basis, and
maintaining your own caseload.
▪ Recruiting and supervising law students and volunteers at Citizenship and Deferred Action
workshops.
▪ Offering educational workshops in relevant areas of immigration law and other issues of interest
to our community and engaging in public speaking opportunities held in collaboration with
churches, educational institutions, partner organizations and neighborhood associations for the
community.
▪ Participating in coalition and stakeholder meetings related to immigration issues, policy
directives, and regulations.
▪ Assisting in development of CARECEN’s pro bono legal program, including working with
established contacts and recruitment of pro bono attorneys.
Candidate Qualifications:
- 1-3 years of experience in immigration law and immigrant rights
- Spanish Fluency
- Excellent oral and written communication skills
- Experience in community outreach (preferred)
- Excellent organizational and team-building skills
- Demonstrated commitment to social justice and ability to sensitively relate to and work with
low-income immigrant clients, grassroots groups, and community-based organizations. - Must have strong interest in trial advocacy and complex legal issues.
Last Revised: 04/05/2023 - Must be passionate and creative in resolving client legal issues, through collaboration with
organizations, social workers, foreign consulates, and other entities. - Ability to work under pressure and to handle multiple and changing priorities and tasks
- Must be able to work some evenings and weekends.
- Admitted to practice law in any state Bar or the Washington, D.C. Bar.
Compensation:
Salary is commensurate with experience and qualifications, between $70-$75k. The competitive
benefits package includes paid medical insurance and generous vacation, holidays and personal/sick-leave.
Application Process:
Applicants with professional, volunteer, and/or personal ties to the low-income immigrant
communities in the metropolitan Washington, DC area are encouraged to apply. Those interested
should send a resume, cover letter, and writing sample by April 30, 2023, to Genevieve Augustin,
Central American Resource Center via e-mail at legal@carecendc.org.