Request a Case for Pro Bono Representation
NIJC routinely has over 50 clients in need of pro bono representation, most of whom are asylum seekers. If you are an attorney in Illinois, Indiana, or Wisconsin interested in taking a pro bono case, please contact us.
Pro bono representation of immigrants and asylum seekers ensures the most vulnerable among us can exercise their rights and secure protection from harm. Prior to placing a case with a pro bono partner for full representation, NIJC extensively screens all cases to ensure the legal viability of the claim. NIJC provides pro bono attorneys with the training, technical assistance, and case support necessary to work with their clients. In turn, pro bono attorneys provide high-quality legal representation, including by securing interpretation, translation, and expert testimony as necessary. NIJC’s pro bono model brings together outstanding attorneys and clients to ensure access to justice.
Our Full Scope Representation Needs
NIJC seeks placement of urgent defensive asylum matters. NIJC also seeks pro bono partners for affirmative asylum, Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS) predicate orders, U-Visa, and Violence Against Women Act (VAWA cases). SIJS predicate order volunteers must be licensed to practice in Illinois and will be responsible for filing and moving the cases through the relevant state courts. Note that most of our pro bono opportunities are for law firm and corporate attorneys in Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin. We have limited opportunities for solo practitioners and firm/corporate attorneys living outside our service area.
How to Request a Case for Pro Bono Representation
If you are interested in representing an NIJC client, please email Pro Bono Manager Charlotte Sall
- Share a bit about yourself, including where you are located, your organization, and any relevant experience (if applicable).
- List which case type(s) you are interested in: asylum, SIJS, U-Visa, VAWA.
- Indicate any other preferences (if applicable): case timeline and upcoming hearing dates, client state of residence, client language, country or region of origin.
- For asylum cases, you may also consider the following: procedural posture (affirmative v. defensive), asylum claim type (political and religious persecution, domestic and gender violence, LGBTQ asylum, etc).
While we cannot guarantee that we will be able to meet specific requests, our pro bono team will work with you to identify if there is a good fit.
Your pro bono representation makes a meaningful difference in an immigrant’s life and helps your client put their best case forward.