Detention Project Law Clerk

Background of Agency: The Immigrant Law Center of a nonprofit agency that
provides immigration legal assistance to low-income immigrants and refugees in
Minnesota. ILCM also works to educate Minnesota communities and professionals about
immigration matters, and advocates for state and federal policies that respect the
universal human rights of immigrants.

Purpose of Position: The Detention Project Law Clerk position was created to support
case work for individuals who have cases pending before the Immigration Court in Fort
Snelling, MN. Unlike in the criminal court system, individuals held in immigration
custody are not provided any free legal assistance and are responsible for obtaining
their own legal counsel. The vast majority are unable to afford the services of a private
immigration attorney, leaving detainees and immigrants with very few or no options.
The Detention Project Law Clerk will assist legal staff in conducting intake and providing
case assistance to clients in ICE custody and to clients who have been released from
ICE custody with future immigration court dates.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

o Conduct client intakes and follow-up interviews
o Answer calls from detained immigrants and their family or friends
o Inform callers about detention processes and other related immigration procedures
o Collect evidence and related documents for cases
o Work on case assistance projects for Staff Attorneys, including client

correspondence, country conditions research, and organizing filings
o If applicable, research applicable law for cases and draft memos, briefs, and

fluently. Languages of preference include Spanish, Somali, Hmong, Karen, or
other relevant languages.

• Prior experience in immigration matters preferred.
• Must possess cross-cultural communications skills and interpersonal sensitivity.

Schedule and Hours

• Flexible. Remote work available. To be determined by supervisor and

• Summer 2024

Pay

Volunteer Position. Supervisor also willing to support interns who secure external
funding or credit.

Supervisor: Assistant will be supervised by Robyn Meyer-Thompson. Support will be
provided by ILCM’s Volunteer Coordinator.

Work Location:

ILCM’s main offices at 450 North Syndicate Street, Suite 200, St. Paul, MN 55104. Work
may be completed remotely with travel to the office as needed.

How to Apply: Please send resumé, writing sample (less than 5 pages), and cover
letter to ILCM Volunteer Coordinator, Arianna Varela, at arianna.varela@ilcm.org and
Robyn Meyer-Thompson at robyn.meyer-thompson@ilcm.org.