DOJ ACCREDITED REPRESENTATIVES

To learn more about the DOJ Recognition and Accreditation Process, see DOJ R&A.

The Foundation relies heavily on volunteer work done by Accredited Representatives and seeks volunteers who are interested in becoming Accredited Representatives. 

Accredited Representatives provide sorely-needed legal immigration services. Status as an Accredited Representative is a professional certification. Some legal service providers and law firms hire Accredited Representatives to work for them. Work done as an Accredited Representative provides practical experience for individuals who wish to work as paralegals or study law. 

The Foundation provides a customized Accredited Representative training. By the end of the eight-week course, participants will be fully qualified to apply to become Accredited Representatives.

Course structure:

• 1 hour class twice a week - taught from four different locations - participants attend in person and online

• 2 hour clinic once a month

• 1 hour clinic discussion once a month after each clinic

Additional course requirements:

• Complete weekly readings 

• Work on client cases weekly under attorney supervision - keep detailed list including work done & time spent on each case

• Attend 2 immigration trainings (list of optional courses provided) - take detailed notes 

• Obtain two letters of recommendation

• Undergo a background check

Qualifications:

• A passion for providing quality legal services 

• to immigrants, migrants, and refugees.

• Strong writing skills

• Attention to detail

• No legal background is required

Cost:

• Free for individuals who commit to volunteer in monthly clinics for four months after completing the eight-week training course.

• There is a fee for individuals who need training to work as Accredited Representatives for another organization and cannot commit to volunteer with the Foundation for six months.