Skadden

Pro Bono Paralegal

New York Full time

We invite you to review our current business services professionals openings to learn about the opportunities available across the firm.

About Us

Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP has forged a reputation as one of the most prestigious law firms in the world. Relying on innovation, intellect, teamwork and tenacity, our lawyers deliver the highest quality advice and novel solutions to our clients’ legal issues. We are known for handling the most complex transactions, litigation/controversy issues, and regulatory matters, as well as for the strong partnerships we build with clients and each other. Our attorneys, who reflect a broad range of experiences and perspectives, work together seamlessly across 50-plus practices and 21 offices in the world’s major financial centers.

The Opportunity

We are seeking a Pro Bono Paralegal to join our Firm. This position will be based in our New York office (hybrid). The Pro Bono Paralegal provides administrative and case support on pro bono immigration matters and other Spanish-language pro bono matters that are staffed by attorneys and business services professionals from offices across the Firm. The Pro Bono Paralegal serves as an interpreter to facilitate conversations in English and Spanish and provides written Spanish/English translations on pro bono matters, including those focused on immigration, housing and family law, as needed. The Pro Bono Paralegal assists the Firm’s Pro Bono Immigration Attorney with tracking of pro bono immigration matters across offices and provides updates and reports to the Pro Bono Department.

  • Acts as the main point of contact for Spanish-speaking pro bono clients.
  • Coordinates meetings and follow-ups, screens calls and advises attorneys on client requests/concerns.
  • Escalates issues as needed to attorney teams and the Pro Bono Department.
  • Interprets conversations between English-speaking lawyers and Spanish-speaking clients via telephone, videoconference, and in-person meetings.
  • Provides translation of documents and client correspondence to/from Spanish/English for attorney review.
  • Works with other business services professionals providing non-English interpretation and translation for pro bono matters to help ensure that such support is provided under best practices and with the necessary cultural and emotional competence.
  • Assists the Firm’s Pro Bono Immigration Attorney with the careful tracking of pro bono immigration matters across offices and provides updates and reports to the Pro Bono Department.
  • Maintains knowledge of relevant immigration policies, procedures, and internal structures, and assists the Pro Bono Immigration Attorney in developing related practice materials and projects.
  • Organizes and manages electronic and paper files.
  • Ensures that all files are maintained with department-approved protocols and case management systems.
  • Maintains the integrity of client files.
  • Assists with the preparation and filing of pleadings, applications, petitions, requests, responses, inquiries, and other court or agency papers, as needed.
  • Assists with retrieval of rules and regulations, as needed.
  • Assists with preparation for interviews, depositions, hearings, trials, and/or virtual/in-person client meetings.
  • Performs non-legal research using various research tools, including the Internet, Westlaw, LexisNexis, PACER, and/or other court-related websites for case law, statutes, articles, books, etc.
  • Demonstrates effective interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills to facilitate effective work relationships with others.
  • Manages Firm resources responsibly.
  • Complies with and understands Firm operation, policies and procedures.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned or needed.

Qualifications

  • Fluent in Spanish with ability to translate Spanish language documents to/from English and interpret conversations in English and Spanish languages
  • Strong interpersonal skills and ability to apply judgment, discretion, and cultural competency on sensitive topics
  • Demonstrates close attention to detail
  • Strong computer skills, including proficiency with relevant Firm computer software (e.g., Outlook, Word, Excel) with the ability to learn new software and operating systems
  • Ability to navigate various electronic databases and document repositories
  • Strong research skills and proficiency in using various research tools
  • Strong analytical, troubleshooting, organizational, and planning skills, with the ability to manage multiple assignments, shifting priorities, and increasing responsibilities in a fast-paced environment.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to interact courteously and effectively with others and work both independently and collaboratively.
  • Proven ability to handle sensitive matters with discretion and maintain confidentiality.
  • Flexibility to travel and adjust hours and work the hours necessary to meet operation and business needs

Education and Experience

  • Bachelor's degree
  • Minimum of three years of experience in a paralegal position or a position requiring similar skillset, expertise and experience.
  • Immigration Paralegal experience is a plus

Application Instructions:  Applications must include both a resume and a cover letter to be considered.

Culture & Life at Skadden
What makes Skadden special is our people and the culture, community and spirit of collaboration we have created. We believe in teamwork and inspiring each other to be our best in an atmosphere that promotes professionalism and excellence in all that we do. We know that inclusion and drawing on the strength of a wide spectrum of talent only make us better and is vital to the firm's success. Our goal is for everyone at the firm to enjoy a challenging career with opportunities for development and growth and to support the well-being of our attorneys and business services professionals.

Benefits

The overall well-being of our team is important to us. We offer generous benefits to help you

achieve wellness in all areas of your life.

  • Competitive salaries and year-end discretionary bonuses.
  • Comprehensive health care (medical, dental, vision), savings plan/401(k) and voluntary benefits.
  • Generous paid time off.
  • Paid leave options, including parental.
  • In-classroom, remote, and on-demand learning and professional development opportunities.
  • Robust well-being classes and programs.
  • Opportunities to give back and make an impact in local communities.

For further details, please visit: https://www.skadden.com/careers/staff/employee-benefits

The starting base salary for this position is expected to be within the range listed under Salary Details.  Actual salary will be determined based on skills, experience (to the extent relevant) and other-job related factors, consistent with applicable law.

Salary Details

$85,000 - $95,000

EEO Statement

Skadden is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  It does not discriminate against applicants or employees based on any legally impermissible factor including, but not limited to, race, color, religion, creed, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, alienage or citizenship status, marital or familial status, domestic partnership status, caregiver status, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, change of sex or transgender status, genetic information, medical condition, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, sexual and reproductive health decisions, disability, any protected military or veteran status, or status as a victim of domestic or dating violence, sexual assault or offense, or stalking.

Applicants who require an accommodation during the application process should contact Alex Taylor at (212) 735-2176.

Skadden Equal Employment Opportunity Policy

Skadden Equal Employment Opportunity Policy

Applicants Have Rights Under Federal Employment Law

Applicants Have Rights Under Federal Employment Law


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