Idaho Clinical Program Criticized for Immigration Representation

I want to express my strong support for the University of Idaho Law School’s clinical program for its great work in representing undocumented immigrants in immigration and removal proceedings. I’m proud of the fact that clinical programs that I’ve been a part of since 1979 and now at UC Davis continue to provide this vital representation to those who are among the most in need of assistance.

The Associated Press reported the following:

A former Canyon County commissioner and vocal foe of illegal immigration says instructors and students at the University of Idaho Law School are breaking the law by offering free legal representation to people who face deportation or other immigration proceedings.

“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.

Monica Schurtman, a UI professor and supervising attorney for the Tribal Clinic, laughed off Vasquez’s criticism.

“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.”

Schurtman said the immigration aspect was added to the clinic in 2000 when she saw immigration as a growing concern in the state. Click here for the rest of the story.

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