Legal Clinic’s Work for Immigrants Attacked

Monica Schurtman runs the the University of Idaho College of Law’s Legal Aid Clinic, which, among other things, offers representation in removal proceedings to qualifying limited-income immigrants.  The immigration wars have resulted in an attack on the clinic.  A former Canyon County commissioner and vocal foe of illegal immigration says clinic instructors and students are breaking the law by offering free legal representation to people who face deportation. “Federal law states that anyone who aids and abets an illegal alien in remaining in the United States is committing a felony,” Robert Vasquez told the Lewiston Tribune. Schurtman’s response:  “That’s really funny,” she said. “What we try to do is assist our clients in a well-established legal system to remain legally in the United States.”

For the full story, click here.  To me, it is surprising that immigration clinics are not attacked more frequently.  Years ago, the good legal work of a Tulane law school environmental clinic led to a political backlash and its closure.  Today, there are many immigration clinics providing help to people in need and immigration is one of the hottest issues around.  I hope that immigration clinics do not become the next target in the war over immigration.

KJ