Note: At this time, we are looking for lawyers that speak Spanish or have access to translation services.

A growing population of immigrants have made Mississippi home. This has not been without struggle. ICE raided chicken processing factories in areas surrounding Jackson, Mississippi on August 7, 2019 and arrested nearly 700 people during the largest single-state immigration raid in US history. Local law enforcement officers continue to coordinate small-scale enforcement actions targeting undocumented Mississippians driving to work. Many of our neighbors are stuck in detention centers, separated from family, and exposed to COVID-19.

The Mississippi Center for Justice calls on you to join us in defending these individuals. Pro bono attorneys will work on either a detained or non-detained case. Attorneys will advocate for humanitarian release for detained individuals at high risk of complications from COVID-19, represent a person in their underlying immigration case, or provide support in applying for relief from deportation. Once matched with a client, a volunteer attorney will conduct client interviews, review intake files to determine an individual's defense(s) to removal, and begin prepping the client for their eventual hearing once the non-detained courts open.

Mississippi Center for Justice's immigration team provides support to volunteer attorneys new to Immigration Law. There is no need for prior experience in Immigration Law. Mississippi Center for Justice also provides malpractice insurance for pro bono attorneys who are not otherwise covered.

Detained casework typically spans two-to-three months. Non-detained cases will take more time once the non-detained courts reopen. Attorney work will consist of writing and submitting motions, advocating for release of clients, and representing individuals in Immigration Court.