The Immigrant Justice Corps (IJC) is a highly competitive fellowship program that provides recent law school graduates with the opportunity to work on immigration cases and make a positive impact on the lives of immigrants and their families. To increase the chances of winning cases, IJC fellows and other immigration attorneys can benefit from the following tips:
Understanding the Immigration System
A strong foundation in immigration law is essential for winning cases. This includes understanding the different types of immigration status, such as asylum, refugee, and Temporary Protected Status (TPS). IJC fellows should also be familiar with the various agencies involved in the immigration process, including U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR).
Building a Strong Case
To build a strong case, IJC fellows should focus on gathering credible evidence and witness testimony. This can include documents such as birth certificates, passports, and police reports, as well as statements from family members, friends, and other individuals who can attest to the client’s story. It’s also essential to conduct thorough interviews with clients to understand their experiences and identify potential vulnerabilities in their cases.
| Case Type | Evidence Needed |
|---|---|
| Asylum | Documentation of persecution, witness statements, medical records |
| Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) Status | Court orders, guardianship documents, proof of abandonment or neglect |
| U Visa | Police reports, medical records, witness statements, proof of helpfulness to law enforcement |
Developing Effective Advocacy Skills
Effective advocacy is critical to winning cases. IJC fellows should focus on developing strong oral advocacy skills, including the ability to clearly and persuasively present their clients’ cases in court. This includes preparing thorough opening statements, conducting effective cross-examinations, and delivering compelling closing arguments.
Staying Up-to-Date on Immigration Law and Policy
Immigration law and policy are constantly evolving, and IJC fellows must stay up-to-date on the latest developments to effectively advocate for their clients. This includes attending training sessions and workshops, participating in online forums and discussion groups, and reviewing recent court decisions and policy changes.
Some key resources for staying current on immigration law and policy include:
- The American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) website, which provides updates on immigration law and policy, as well as practice pointers and other resources for immigration attorneys.
- The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website, which provides information on immigration benefits, including eligibility requirements and application procedures.
- The Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) website, which provides information on immigration court procedures, including rules of evidence and procedure.
Collaborating with Other Attorneys and Advocates
Collaboration with other attorneys and advocates is essential to winning cases. IJC fellows should build relationships with other immigration attorneys, participate in local immigration coalitions and advocacy groups, and seek guidance from experienced mentors. By working together, immigration attorneys can share knowledge, resources, and expertise to better serve their clients and advance the cause of immigrant justice.
What are the most common types of immigration cases handled by IJC fellows?
+IJC fellows handle a wide range of immigration cases, including asylum, Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) status, U visa, and Temporary Protected Status (TPS) cases.
What skills are most important for IJC fellows to develop in order to win cases?
+IJC fellows should develop strong oral advocacy skills, including the ability to clearly and persuasively present their clients’ cases in court. They should also focus on building a strong foundation in immigration law, gathering credible evidence, and conducting thorough interviews with clients.
How can IJC fellows stay up-to-date on the latest developments in immigration law and policy?
+IJC fellows can stay up-to-date on the latest developments in immigration law and policy by attending training sessions and workshops, participating in online forums and discussion groups, and reviewing recent court decisions and policy changes. They should also regularly check the websites of key organizations, such as AILA, USCIS, and EOIR, for updates and resources.
