Immigrants’ Rights Clinic
Overview
Students in the Immigrants’ Rights Clinic have full responsibility for defending clients against deportation in San Francisco Immigration Court, the Board of Immigration Appeals, and the federal courts of appeals. As part of that work, students write complex legal briefs, argue cases, conduct fact investigation, interview witnesses and clients, and represent clients in mini-trials. Students also engage in cutting-edge litigation and advocacy in partnership with local and national immigrants’ rights organizations.
Latest Updates
IRC Students Files FOIA Complaint
Congratulations to IRC student Truman Chen, ‘24, who filed his first complaint in District Court. In May 2023, the IRC submitted FOIA requests to Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Department of Homeland Security, on behalf of Immigrant Legal Defense, seeking records pertaining to enforcement and removal operations, including video footage of raids and other enforcement actions. After the requests went unanswered, the IRC filed a complaint with the Northern District of California. Truman conducted legal and factual research, and drafted the complaint.
IRC Student Represents Client Before the Nevada Pardons Board
Congratulations to Madison Villarreal, ’24, who successfully represented her client before the Nevada Pardons Board. Madison’s client, P, is in immigration detention and in removal proceedings based on a prior criminal conviction. Madison filed a pardon application on her client’s behalf and represented him before the Nevada Pardons Board at the Nevada Supreme Court. Due to Madison’s zealous advocay, P was granted a pardon of his prior criminal convictions, which can potentially allow for new avenues for him to remain lawfully in the United States.
IRC Students Reflect on Their First Court Hearing
Students Lauryn Bennett, ’24, and Ari Berman, ’24 represented a family from Venezuela seeking political asylum. Lauryn and Ari conducted multiple client interviews, drafted complex legal research memos, and prepared to represent their clients at their hearing. Ari and Lauryn reflect on their experience representing their clients at their preliminary immigration hearing.
In the News
US Sanctions and the International Criminal Court
American Society of International Law
Beth Van Schaack spoke on the relationship between the US and the International Criminal Court at an event organized by the American Society of International Law on September 23.
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Legal Organizations Fight New ICE Policy Blocking Meetings with Detainees
Immigrant Advocates Ask Judge For Nationwide Policy For Asylum-Seekers
ICE Is Holding $204 Million In Bond Money, And Some Immigrants Might Never Get It Back
Trump's Threat To Close US-Mexico Border Is To Please Voters, Experts Say