Immigrants facing deportation in the U.S. will soon have one less avenue for legal support during this process. The Executive Office for Immigration Review notified the Vera Institute of Justice that it will soon halt support for the Legal Orientation Program, which offers information and support for immigrants across the U.S. This move may eliminate one of the limited protections afforded to undocumented immigrants and others during deportation proceedings. According to Justice Department officials, the removal of support is intended to coincide with efficiency reviews that will determine whether or not these programs are still a cost-effective use of federal money.

A Valuable Tool for Streamlining Immigration Proceedings

The Legal Orientation Program was founded in 2003 as part of an initiative by President George W. Bush to reduce delays and increase the efficiency of the immigration courts system. In 2017, the program provided information sessions for more than 53,000 immigrants to help them understand their legal rights and responsibilities in the immigration court environment.

Part of a Network of Nonprofits

The Vera Institute of Justice is just one of 19 nonprofit organizations that may be impacted by this move on the part of the Trump administration. Currently, the network offers legal services for undocumented immigrants and receives federal funding for some of the activities of the nonprofit organizations. A study conducted by the Justice Department in 2012 stated that the Legal Orientation Program was “cost-effective and efficient” in its mission to promote due process for undocumented immigrants who might not be aware of their rights.

Protested by Immigration Advocates

Advocates for the rights of undocumented immigrants blasted the move as another attempt by the Trump administration to curtail and even eliminate due process and legal rights for immigrants residing in this country. Opponents of the move note that without these informational sessions, many immigrants may not even be aware that they are entitled to legal counsel or may not know how to contact an Orlando immigration lawyer. By taking away this source of information, immigrants may be left without legal recourse when facing deportation proceedings.

If you need the services of an Orlando immigration lawyer, Pozo Goldstein can help with expert guidance and the most qualified staff members for your case. By choosing an Orlando immigration lawyer from our firm, you can also gain access to the expertise of a former judge and two former immigration prosecutors. This can ensure the best representation for your case. Call us today at 407-956-4359. We look forward to the opportunity to help you resolve your immigration issues quickly and in the most positive manner possible.