Our client, SHARP Pakistan (Society for Human Rights and Prisoners Aid), is seeking a Refugee Legal Counsel to join their team in Karachi or Peshawar. In this role, you will provide vital legal counseling and support to refugees, helping them understand and access their legal rights and remedies. You will engage directly with refugees to explain legal protections, government policies, and pathways toward durable solutions. Additionally, you will organize and lead awareness sessions and legal camps to keep beneficiaries informed about emerging legal developments. Your work will contribute to SHARP’s mission of protecting human rights in challenging environments while strictly adhering to the organization’s policies and Code of Conduct.
As a Refugee Legal Counsel, you will conduct legal and protection assessments, manage protection referral cases, and help establish effective legal service systems. You will work closely with the Protection Officer to develop weekly plans, document assessment findings, and assist in creating forms and templates that enhance service delivery. Collaboration with community representatives and relevant authorities is crucial to building strong referral mechanisms and maintaining positive relationships with beneficiaries.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide individual legal counseling and assistance to refugees regarding their legal rights and available options.
- Facilitate access to information on refugee rights protection, government notifications, and mechanisms for durable solutions.
- Organize and conduct awareness-raising sessions and legal camps focused on current legal developments affecting refugees.
- Assist in conducting legal and protection assessments as part of SHARP’s field or office operations.
- Manage and track protection referral cases to ensure timely follow-up and resolution.
- Support and participate in public events such as meetings, roundtables, and technical working groups, representing SHARP.
- Adhere to SHARP’s policies, procedures, and Code of Conduct in all activities and interactions.
- Coordinate with the Protection Officer to plan weekly work activities and set priorities.
- Efficiently manage case files, update records, and maintain archival systems both electronically and physically.
- Provide detailed input and documentation for monthly reports and other organizational records.
- Assist in designing forms, questionnaires, and templates to support legal aid activities.
- Contribute to the development and strengthening of referral mechanisms for legal matters within the community.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with beneficiaries through regular visits and communication to understand their needs.
- Facilitate information sharing and cooperation with community leaders and relevant legal and governmental authorities.
- Participate in coordination meetings and represent the team when delegated by supervisors.
- Perform additional tasks and responsibilities as assigned to support program objectives.
Required Qualifications
- Minimum of two years’ experience in legal counseling, case management, or related legal services, preferably with refugee or human rights focus.
- Strong attention to detail in case management, reporting, and legal documentation.
- Ability to work effectively in challenging environments while maintaining professionalism and adherence to organizational policies.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to engage with beneficiaries, community representatives, and authorities.
- Willingness to specify preferred duty station (Karachi or Peshawar) in the application.
Preferred Qualifications and Benefits
While not explicitly stated, candidates with prior experience working in refugee legal aid or human rights organizations will be preferred. The role offers the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to human rights protection and legal empowerment of vulnerable populations in Pakistan.
This position provides a unique platform to work closely with a respected organization committed to human rights and legal assistance for refugees. It requires dedication, professionalism, and a passion for justice in complex environments.