AILA Rejects Administration’s Dangerous Threats on Immigration Attorneys
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) rejects the assertion put forth in a memo sent out last night by the Trump Administration that there is “rampant fraud and meritless claims” being committed by immigration lawyers. Considering recent actions against judges, this is a chilling directive to the Attorney General Pam Bondi and the Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem to act against immigration attorneys, law firms and the immigration bar. The memo, in short, orders sanctions, reviews, and stricter oversight of attorneys in asylum and immigration cases. The broad assertion that immigration attorneys are acting improperly in their efforts to represent individuals against an increasingly complex and restrictive immigration system is both unfounded and dangerous.
AILA President Kelli Stump stated, “First and foremost the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) is a bar association dedicated to defending and respecting the rule of law. AILA members have taken a solemn oath to uphold the Constitution of the United States, to conduct themselves with integrity and civility, and to faithfully discharge their duties as officers of the court. For more than 75 years, AILA and its members have guarded this oath, and the integrity of the practice of immigration law. We remain steadfast in our commitment to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and integrity within our ranks and are committed to ensuring that all immigration attorneys meet their professional responsibilities. This administration’s rhetoric is not only misleading but dangerous. It seeks to delegitimize the work of resolute professionals who ensure that immigrants—many of whom are fleeing persecution and are contributing to their new communities—have access to fair legal representation. This is not just about immigration lawyers; this is about the integrity of our legal system and the principles of due process and equal protection under the law. AILA and its members will not be intimidated. We took an oath as attorneys, and political pressures will not dissuade us from that sworn duty to the constitution.”
AILA Executive Director Benjamin Johnson added, “The Trump administration has a long history of attacking judges who dare to rule against them and maligning the character of anyone who disagrees with them. Late last night, the Administration focused its ire on immigration lawyers and big law firms who take on pro bono cases. This is a dangerous assault on the legal profession. The role of attorneys is essential to a balanced system of justice in our democracy. Lawyers have an ethical obligation to zealously advocate for their clients within the bounds of the law. This duty is not only a cornerstone of our legal system but is also enshrined in the very fabric of American jurisprudence. Attempting to vilify immigration lawyers for fulfilling this duty is a cynical attempt to discourage due process and silence those who work to protect the most vulnerable among us. AILA will continue to work toward the creation of a safe, orderly, and humane immigration system, to defend the rights of immigrants, uphold the ethical obligations of our members, and challenge any effort that seeks to erode the principles of justice upon which this nation was founded.”