About myPadilla: myPadilla is an innovative virtual platform designed to bridge the gap between criminal defense attorneys representing indigent non-US citizens and specialized immigration counsel. By helping criminal defense attorneys fulfill their obligations, myPadilla enhances the support provided to clients across Texas. Supported by the Texas Indigent Defense Commission, myPadilla has demonstrated its value across Texas, initially serving 26 counties in its pilot year and subsequently expanding statewide. In 2023, we served 65+ counties, and we keep growing.
Position overview: We are currently searching for a Program Director who has a strong background in crimmigration (the intersection of criminal and immigration law). We are looking for an attorney who will proactively engage with and provide resources to the defense bar about crimmigration concepts. While the attorney will not manage the technical upkeep of the platform, the attorney should be tech-curious: someone who appreciates the efficiencies of technology for delivery of legal services and will troubleshoot and monitor to ensure the tool is working effectively.
The main responsibility of this position is to lead and expand our innovative program. The attorney will play a crucial role in advising criminal defense attorneys in Texas on the immigration consequences of criminal convictions. As the Program Director, you will be responsible for outreach efforts, including providing Continuing Legal Education (CLE) sessions and conducting online and in-person trainings for local public defender offices, appointed attorneys, or local bar associations. You will supervise other staff members, manage, and organize the workflow, and provide feedback. The attorney will also be responsible for grant reporting, working with developer for website upkeep and adjustments, data collection, and evaluating the program's successes and needs. Your role is pivotal in ensuring that defense attorneys are well-informed and actively engaging with our service.
myPadilla is an independent grant funded program (with expectation for continued funding), that will be a part of the Capital Area Private Defender Service (CAPDS). CAPDS is a Managed Assigned Counsel program that handles most indigent defense cases in Travis County. CAPDS uses a holistic defense model, placing the client at the center of the representation. We provide in-house Padilla services to criminal defense attorneys representing indigent clients in Travis County. While the myPadilla attorney will be providing services to criminal defense attorneys outside of Travis County, the myPadilla program will collaborate and work closely with the CAPDS team to facilitate and support the growth of the myPadilla project.
Key responsibilities:
· Research, Training, and Leadership. As a Program Director, you will be responsible for leading the ongoing research and training initiatives within your team to ensure the provision of clear and accurate advice in this dynamic field. You will stay updated by attending webinars, continuing legal education (CLE) sessions, and various professional meetings, as well as overseeing the development of your team's expertise in these areas. In collaboration with the Padilla Staff Attorney, you will guide the creation of comprehensive documents and materials that support criminal defense attorneys in understanding their Padilla duties. Additionally, you will facilitate training sessions and workshops to enhance the team's knowledge and skills, ensuring they can offer valuable and complete advice.
· Educational Outreach and External Training. In this position, you will plan, coordinate, and execute educational outreach activities, including conducting Continuing Legal Education (CLE) sessions tailored for criminal defense attorneys. You will work closely with the Padilla Staff Attorney and you will guide educational initiatives targeting other key stakeholders. Your responsibilities will also include leading outreach efforts to onboard and train new criminal defense attorneys and public defenders in using myPadilla effectively. As the Program Director, you will represent myPadilla at professional meetings and other events related to Padilla and crimmigration, ensuring that our educational programs align with the latest legal practices and standards. Your role will be crucial in shaping and delivering high-impact training and development for criminal defense attorneys and public defenders in Texas. You will foster proactive engagement with local criminal defense attorneys, public defenders' offices, and bar associations, sharing resources and knowledge on crimmigration issues.
· Provide Padilla opinions and supervise Padilla Staff Attorney. As the Program Director, you will offer expert advice on the immigration consequences of criminal convictions to defense attorneys through the myPadilla platform. You will review the intakes and ensure all information is available. As required, you may reach out to criminal defense attorneys to clarify or complete the information submitted through the intake. Moreover, you will supervise the Padilla Staff Attorney and will provide guidance and feedback as needed.
· Case Analysis and Supervision. You will review and analyze the client’s criminal cases and immigration history to identify potential immigration consequences. You will lead discussions on case strategies with Padilla Staff Attorney and the CAPDS Immigration team.
· Casework management and other administrative duties. As the Program Director, you will plan, manage, and oversee the workflow. You will maintain accurate and current data essential for grant reporting. You will supervise the casework management, ensuring that all information is meticulously updated and complies with grant requirements and other relevant laws and policies. Additionally, you will guide and support your team in their administrative tasks and casework, providing training and oversight to promote efficiency. Your role will be pivotal in ensuring operational excellence and regulatory compliance across all administrative and casework activities.
- Other tasks and duties determined by supervisor necessary to aid in program success and development.
Required qualifications:
· J.D. or LL.M. from accredited law school.
· Licensed attorney in the State of Texas.
· Strong organizational and communication skills, with the ability to work independently and innovatively.
· Three or more years of experience in immigration law and immigration consequences of criminal activity.
· Three or more years of experience serving clients impacted by immigration and criminal systems.
· Knowledge of criminal law.
· Experience conducting trainings and presentations.
· Spanish speaking (preferred).
We offer an excellent total compensation package, including competitive salary and an excellent benefit package. Benefits include 403b, PTO, medical, dental, and vision.
Application process: Please send resume and cover letter to jobs@capds.org as one document with “myPadilla program director” in the subject line. Only electronic communications will be accepted.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $80,000.00 - $90,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Loan forgiveness
- Paid time off
- Parental leave
- Professional development assistance
- Vision insurance
Schedule:
Ability to Relocate:
- Austin, TX 78701: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Austin, TX 78701
