This is a proposed project program that will be active immediately, ONLY after recognition by the Department of Justice (DOJ), and primarily serves lower-income individuals. The Immigration Legal Services Program provides affordable legal assistance to immigrants and their families. It is committed not only to providing immigration counseling and representation but also to empowering individuals to understand immigration law and their rights under the law.

"A Department of Justice (DOJ)-accredited representative and recognized non-profit organizations provide immigration legal services, ensuring that those who cannot afford private attorneys have access to crucial legal representation."

Recognition & Accreditation ( Recognized Organizations and Accredited Representatives) Program

This program will be active immediately after recognition by the Department of Justice (DOJ) and primarily serves lower-income individuals. The Immigration Legal Services Program provides affordable legal assistance to immigrants and their families. It is committed not only to providing immigration counseling and representation but also to empowering individuals to understand immigration law and their rights under the law.

"A Department of Justice (DOJ)-accredited representative and recognized non-profit organizations provide immigration legal services, ensuring that those who cannot afford private attorneys have access to crucial legal representation."

Unfortunately, over the past five years, the total number of pending cases has more than tripled, and the rate of immigrants with legal representation has fallen from 65% to 30%.

Federal regulations at 8 C.F.R. § 1292.1(a)(4) allow non-attorney “Accredited Representatives” to represent aliens before the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR), which includes the immigration courts and the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA). These representatives are accredited through the Recognition and Accreditation (R&A) Program, which aims to increase the availability of competent immigration legal representation for low-income and indigent persons, thereby promoting the effective and efficient administration of justice. Accredited Representatives may only provide immigration legal services through Recognized Organizations. Only non-profit, federally tax-exempt entities may apply to be recognized.

DOJ-accredited representatives play a vital role in ensuring access to justice for people in need through legal aid.  At North Suburban Legal Aid Clinic, we strive to meet the needs of our clients by using a holistic approach and using all resources at our disposal. The inclusion of a DOJ-accredited representative is particularly beneficial for clients seeking free, accessible legal help. These trained non-attorneys, authorized by the Department of Justice, are equipped to offer specialized immigration legal services. The presence of a DOJ-accredited representative augments the attorneys on staff by providing specialized immigration expertise and additional capacity to handle complex cases, thereby enhancing the overall effectiveness of NSLAC’s services.

What is a DOJ-Accredited Representative? 

A DOJ-accredited representative is a trained non-attorney authorized by the Department of Justice (DOJ) to provide immigration legal services. These individuals work exclusively for recognized non-profit organizations, ensuring that those who cannot afford private attorneys have access to crucial legal representation. Depending on their accreditation, DOJ-accredited representatives can represent clients before the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR), including the immigration courts and the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA).  

What is the importance of DOJ-accredited representatives? 

The DOJ-accredited representative program was established to bridge the gap in legal representation for immigrants. By working within recognized non-profit organizations, DOJ-accredited representatives provide specialized expertise in immigration law, supporting clients with legal advice, immigration paperwork, and court representation. Through their work, they ensure that low-income and underserved communities receive the help they need to navigate complex immigration processes. 

Why Consider Becoming a DOJ-Accredited Representative? 

“The DOJ-Accredited Representative program is a fantastic initiative. It not only supports the immigrant community but also offers a great opportunity for professionals who may not be considering law school at the moment but have a desire to serve immigrants and gain legal experience. “ - Esteban Carbajal, previous DOJ-accredited representative, and NSLAC supervising attorney. 

Citation:

https://www.justice.gov/eoir/recognition-and-accreditation-program

What Is a DOJ Accredited Representative? - North Suburban Legal Aid Clinic (nslegalaid.org)