Removal Defense

Many noncitizen defendants are already deportable (“removable”). This includes all undocumented people, as well as lawful permanent residents (green card-holders) who have become deportable because of a conviction. If immigration authorities find these people – which is likely to happen – they will be deported unless they are granted some kind of immigration relief.   For these defendants, staying eligible to apply for immigration relief is their most important immigration goal, and may be their highest priority in the criminal defense.

On April 8, 2026, the ILRC submitted a comment in response to a proposed federal immigration rule that would sharply limit appeals to the Board of Immigration Appeals, arguing that it would weaken due process protections for people facing removal.

This step-by-step guide will walk you through the steps for filing your first petition for habeas corpus (immigration) in the Central District of California.

This analysis could be particularly helpful for clients from countries that previously did not accept individuals deported from the U.S., such as Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam, as well as those from former Soviet countries.

This advisory summarizes the majority and dissent’s opinions, and shares key takeaways and practice tips for criminal defenders and immigration practitioners in light of the decision.

On Friday, May 26, 2026, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) office released a notice for clients of former immigration attorney Alexandra Lozano. USCIS urges applicants represented by former attorney Alexandra Lozano, who marketed herself as “la milagrosa” (miracle worker), to update their mailing address and informs them that they can withdraw their application or petition by submittiOn Friday, May 26, 2026, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) office released a notice for clients of former immigration attorney Alexandra Lozano. USCIS urges applicants represented by former attorney Alexandra Lozano, who marketed herself as “la milagrosa” (miracle worker), to update their mailing address and informs them that they can withdraw their application or petition by submitting a written request. USCIS, however, fails to explain the consequences of withdrawing an application or petition. In this community alert, we will address some frequently asked questions. ng a written request. USCIS, however, fails to explain the consequences of withdrawing an application or petition. In this community alert, we will address some frequently asked questions.

This advisory is part II of a two-part advisory on the federal immigration consequences of California Proposition 36 enacted in December 2024. Part I on Prop 36 and controlled substance offenses is found here.

This advisory seeks to clarify which provisions of the new BIA Procedural rules are currently in effect, and which are not.

This step-by-step guide will walk you through the steps for filing your first petition for habeas corpus (immigration) in the Northern District of California.

The Trafficking Survivors Relief Act (TSRA) was passed on January 23, 2026, and provides new federal post-conviction relief options for those convicted of certain federal offenses that were committed as a direct result of having been a victim of human trafficking. This practice alert discusses the new law and potential benefits for noncitizen defendants.