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Legal firms and offices often have departments that specialize in different areas of the law, one of which is Immigration. A legal assistant who focuses on Immigration, is crucial in supporting both immigration practitioners and clients throughout the immigration process. They work closely by assisting in maintaining and processing applications. They act as the intermediary between the Immigration Practitioner and clients inquiring about immigration, permanent residency, and citizenship conditions and requirements. Some of the key aspects of this position are documentation preparation and database navigation, administrative duties, and client interaction.
Immigration legal assistants demonstrate competencies to effectively collaborate with others to meet the role's demands. These competencies range from communication and interpersonal skills to organization and management skills, which lead to increased productivity within the firm.
To be successful in this role, they must possess both soft skills and hard skills. Here are some of the skills:-
Attention to detail is very important. Minor errors can lead to serious complications. Routinely, Legal Assistants communicate with clients and assist with transferring documents between practitioners and clients. They handle sensitive documents that require detailed adjustments to maintain clarity.
Communication skills are important. Tasks such as writing emails and reporting to immigration practitioners are a part of daily tasks. Strong communication skills are also necessary to brief and update clients. The use of language and intonation may change the way the client views the situation.
Knowledge of a second or third language ensures clear communications between the professional and client. Documents may be processed in different language. A Legal Assistant who can translate is more flexible to work in different environments. A multilingual Immigration Legal Assistant is coveted, with many clients looking for translators. Mastering effective communication as an Immigration Legal Assistant can lead to career advancement.
Organization is a key skill to stay on schedule. In many cases, tasks such as reviews of packages and applications are time- sensitive. Maintaining calendars is also crucial to reducing the likelihood that they are completed past their deadline. This includes updating several clients on multiple cases in different stages of applications.
Developing legal knowledge is amongst the most important skills. Immigration Legal Assistants prepare key documents ensuring that these documents comply with legal procedures used by practitioners. Immigration Legal Assistants must be familiar with the proper procedures and correct terminology required in the firm. Imprecise terminology can lead to incorrect interpretations. Developing the ability to form well-structured letters is crucial as requests for vital information are submitted for legal research.
Data within immigration legal firms must stay confidential. Understanding case management systems helps manage caseload intakes and applications for visas and process any files that may be required to respond to inquiries. A clear understanding of the case management system results in a smoother and more efficient transfer of immigration information. Knowledge of the case management system ensures accuracy, which is mandatory in a position that requires proper navigation and interpretation of relevant information.
To find success in this field, practice and familiarize yourself by employing these key skills in your path to gaining knowledge. Immigration Legal Assistants are a vital part to the Canadian immigration system. For students interested in Canadian immigration laws, click here to view the Ashton College course on Immigration Legal Assistant Diploma. Gain comprehensive training with practical skills and immerse yourself in industry-relevant knowledge to support the immigration legal system.
The information contained in this post is considered true and accurate as of the publication date. However, the accuracy of this information may be impacted by changes in circumstances that occur after the time of publication. Ashton College assumes no liability for any error or omissions in the information contained in this post or any other post in our blog.
