SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Lawyer Kamalpreet Chohan ran her finger down a list of 57 names of people scheduled to appear during a morning of hearings at the immigration court in California’s capital and pointed out one glaring absence.
“None of these folks are represented,” she said.
Chohan coordinates a program that sends volunteer lawyers to immigration courts, assisting those without legal representation in navigating a complex system where outcomes are dire—ranging from deportation to the possibility of a new life in America.
The stakes are particularly high under the current administration, with courts increasingly involved in a mass deportation agenda. Statistics reveal that the absence of legal representation can drastically impact the outcomes of cases. Without a lawyer, individuals face a daunting uphill battle in immigration court.
Data indicates that legal representation is critical, yet many immigrants lack the means to hire private attorneys or access pro bono services. As Chohan observes, “Folks go into immigration court not knowing what’s happening. They come out not knowing what’s happening. And when there’s an attorney present, it’s just so helpful.”
In stark contrast to criminal courts, immigration courts do not guarantee legal representation. Immigrants often must either pay thousands for a private attorney or rely on nonprofit organizations, which frequently have long waitlists and limited resources.
According to an analysis by the Vera Institute of Justice, approximately 3.2 million deportation cases are pending in U.S. immigration courts, with over 52% lacking legal counsel. A 2024 study from the Congressional Research Service revealed that only 19% of unrepresented individuals successfully obtained asylum, compared to 47% of those who had legal representation.
“Having an attorney is just super critical to be able to navigate the system successfully,” stated Adriel Orozco from the American Immigration Council.
Chohan often encounters individuals who have been victimized by unscrupulous lawyers or individuals posing as attorneys. She provides vetted lists of reputable attorneys to those in need, highlighting the importance of seeking trustworthy legal support.
One man, who fled Guatemala after receiving threats from gangs, shared his experience of spending $4,500 on a lawyer who ultimately provided no assistance. “He turned out to be a scammer,” he recounted, expressing his concern about his uncertain future in court.
Outside the Sacramento courthouse, a line of immigrants awaits appointments with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Volunteers from local resistance groups stand ready to offer support.
Inside, two immigration judges preside over cases—one focusing on individual asylum claims, while the other manages a master calendar docket for quick status checks on numerous cases.
Chohan, representing the California Immigration Project, assists immigrants by providing guidance on their asylum applications and clarifying procedural requirements. She emphasizes the need for detailed applications, as judges can deny claims lacking sufficient information.
“Sometimes judges can deny a claim if there isn’t enough detail,” she explained, advising clients on the importance of thorough documentation.
Regular clinics are held to aid immigrants in completing their asylum applications. Chohan is diligent about ensuring that all necessary forms are filled out correctly and submitted timely, providing essential reminders to avoid common pitfalls.
As the immigration court system continues to evolve, particularly during the Trump administration’s second term, Chohan has witnessed significant changes, including tactics that prioritize expediting cases over ensuring fair processes. She believes that everyone deserves access to legal counsel and that her program helps to bridge the gap for those in need.
In her view, the role of volunteer lawyers is vital in assisting immigrants who often feel overwhelmed and lost in a system that can be intimidating and confusing. Until broader reforms are made to ensure that all individuals have access to legal representation, programs like Chohan’s serve as a critical lifeline for many seeking refuge and safety in the United States.
