Leslie Retamozo
Clifton,NJ
Summary
Knowledgeable Child Advocate with proven track record in supporting vulnerable children and advocating for their rights. Demonstrated success in resolving conflicts and providing emotional support to children in challenging situations. Skilled in communication and empathy, ensuring effective collaboration with families and professionals.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Tax Preparer
Liberty Tax Service
Clifton, NJ
09.2025 - Current
- Prepared and filed federal and state tax returns for 30 individual clients.
- Completed and filed returns with tax departments at local, state, and federal levels.
- Reviewed client financial documents to ensure accuracy and completeness.
- Assisted clients in understanding tax obligations and available deductions.
- Utilized tax preparation software to streamline filing processes effectively.
- Maintained compliance with IRS regulations and local laws consistently.
Migration Counselor
CATHOLIC CHARITIES COMMUNITY SERVICES ARCHDIOCESE OF NEW YORK
12.2023 - 05.2025
- Provide child-centered, trauma-informed, and culturally competent legal services to unaccompanied minors living under the care and custody of ORR at local ORR-run facilities
- Conducting Know Your Rights (KYR) presentations and individual legal screenings
- Providing information and assistance related to the enforcement of rights to safety, bodily integrity, and family unity while in government custody
- Submitting referrals to the Office on Trafficking in Persons; helping minors prepare for court hearings; and working on minors' removal defense matters under an attorney's supervision.
- Under the supervision of an attorney, provide direct legal services to unaccompanied non-citizen children in removal proceedings who qualify for immigration relief in matters including, but not limited to, asylum, special immigrant juvenile status, U- and T-visa applications, adjustment of status, etc. Develop a legal strategy based on information gathered through the course of representation, conduct research on various legal issues and country conditions, translate documents, draft substantive legal arguments, draft affidavits, and help prepare petitions for relief.
Legal Assistant/ Paralegal
JOHN L. WEICHSEL- ATTORNEY AT LAW
01.2020 - 11.2023
- Maintained scheduling of court dates and attorney appointments for optimal workflow efficiency.
- Managed case files and documentation to ensure compliance with legal standards.
- Collaborated with clients to gather necessary information and provide updates on case progress.
- Filed with NJ E-Courts, Jeds, Appellate Division, Pacer, ECF NY
- Handled Personal Injury, Criminal, Civil, Real Estate, and Family cases
- Prepared of legal documents: Motions, Orders, Exhibits, Affidavits
- Assisted translating for clients in Spanish for attorneys.
- Responded to client inquiries, providing accurate legal advice and offering assistance.
- Conducted legal research to support litigation strategies and client representation.
- Trained new staff on office procedures, software systems, and best practices in legal support.
Child Advocate Volunteer
YOUNG CENTER FOR IMMIGRANT CHILDREN'S RIGHT
01.2022 - 01.2025
- I spend time with and advocate on behalf of an unaccompanied immigrant child while he or she is subject to deportation proceedings.
- Advocated for children's rights by providing support during legal proceedings and community meetings with Young Center Staff
- I visit with the child at least once/twice a week in person or via zoom and assist in developing individualized plans for children, addressing their unique needs and challenges.
- Develop best-interest recommendations with Young Center staff.
- Documented case notes accurately to ensure continuity of care and effective communication among stakeholders.
Education Intern
PASSAIC COUNTY PROSECUTOR'S OFFICE
09.2018 - 12.2018
- Observed and studied case files with Homicide and Megan's Law Unit
- Witnessed interrogations with the Special Victim Unit and White Collar Crime Unit
- Organized Sex offender files and Registration forms for Megan's Law Unit
- Utilized Info-share database system
- Filing Homicide, Sex offenders cases
Education
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE - CRIMINAL JUSTICE
John Jay of Criminal Justice (CUNY)
New York, NY05.2021
ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE - CRIMINAL JUSTICE
Berkeley College
Woodland Park, NJ12.2018
Skills
- Technology proficiency
- Proficient in Law Logix System, E-Courts system, NYSECF
- Research skills
- Attention to detail
- Organization skills
- Time Management
- Collaboration and teamwork
Certification
- Comprehensive Overview of Immigration Law Training - May 2024
- Licensed Notary - May 2021
- Certificate of Completion- Tax Service Course 2025
Languages
Spanish
Native or Bilingual
Timeline
Tax Preparer
Liberty Tax Service
09.2025 - Current
Migration Counselor
CATHOLIC CHARITIES COMMUNITY SERVICES ARCHDIOCESE OF NEW YORK
12.2023 - 05.2025
Child Advocate Volunteer
YOUNG CENTER FOR IMMIGRANT CHILDREN'S RIGHT
01.2022 - 01.2025
Legal Assistant/ Paralegal
JOHN L. WEICHSEL- ATTORNEY AT LAW
01.2020 - 11.2023
Education Intern
PASSAIC COUNTY PROSECUTOR'S OFFICE
09.2018 - 12.2018
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE - CRIMINAL JUSTICE
John Jay of Criminal Justice (CUNY)
ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE - CRIMINAL JUSTICE
Berkeley College