FOIA Paralegal

Position Summary

The FOIA Paralegal is responsible for managing and processing Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests and Privacy Act requests on behalf of immigration clients. This position supports attorneys by obtaining, reviewing, organizing, and analyzing records from government agencies, including USCIS, CBP, ICE, EOIR, DOS, and other federal agencies. The FOIA Paralegal ensures timely case management, accurate documentation, and compliance with firm procedures and government requirements.

Please submit a cover letter with your resume answering the following questions:

• How many years of immigration experience do you have?

• Do you have experience working with FOIA, and if so, how many years?

• Do you have experience using Clio, Docketwise, or Cerenade? If not, what programs do you have experience with?

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Prepare, submit, and track FOIA and Privacy Act requests with various government agencies.

• Review client intake information and determine appropriate agencies from which records should be requested.

• Gather and organize supporting documentation required for FOIA submissions.

• Maintain detailed records of all requests, correspondence, and deadlines within the firm's case management system.

• Monitor pending FOIA requests and follow up with agencies regarding status updates and delayed responses.

• Review received records for completeness and identify missing, redacted, or potentially responsive documents.

• Prepare summaries of FOIA responses for attorney review.

• Upload, scan, organize, and maintain electronic case files.

• Communicate with clients regarding documentation needs, request status, and receipt of records.

• Document all case activity in the firm's case management software.

• Escalate delayed responses, incomplete records, or complex legal issues to the supervising attorney.

• Assist attorneys with immigration case preparation using records obtained through FOIA requests.

• Ensure compliance with all confidentiality requirements and firm policies.

• Participate in team meetings and assist with special projects as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of immigration processes and federal agency procedures.

• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.

• Ability to manage a high-volume caseload and meet deadlines.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and case management software.

• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality.

• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced legal environment.

Performance Expectations

• Timely submission and tracking of all FOIA requests.

• Accurate documentation of case activity and client communications.

• Effective management of deadlines and follow-up schedules.

• Maintenance of organized and complete electronic files.

• Professional communication with clients, government agencies, attorneys, and staff.

• Consistent adherence to firm policies, procedures, and ethical standards.

Qualifications Required

• Paralegal Certification preferred.
  Minimum of 3 years of hands-on experience in immigration law.

• Experience with immigration law and FOIA processing strongly preferred.

• Fluency in English and Spanish, both written and verbal.
  Strong working knowledge of U.S. immigration laws, policies, and procedures.

• Proven ability to manage multiple cases simultaneously while meeting strict deadlines.

• Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and professional judgment.
  Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with attorneys and staff.

• Experience with immigration case management software such as Clio or similar platforms.
  Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Outlook, and document management systems.
  Familiarity with USCIS systems, online filings, and government portals.

Angel F. Leal Jr. P.A. is an established Miami-based immigration law firm committed to advocating for individuals and families navigating complex immigration matters with clarity, compassion, and precision. Our practice balances a high-volume environment with personalized client service, and we pride ourselves on collaboration, accountability, and professional growth, all in service of excellent client outcomes.