Immigration youth

Federal immigration courts have adopted two reforms that will expand access to legal protection for unaccompanied child migrants. The reforms were recommended by MacArthur grantees Kids in Need of Defense and the Center for Gender & Refugee Studies. A pilot program will appoint attorneys to represent the children in their immigration cases in 25 sites around the country. In addition, as recommended by the Young Center at the University of Chicago, the immigration court system will designate child-only dockets and specialized training for judges hearing children’s cases. This reform also will facilitate children’s access to pro bono attorneys, child advocates, and social services.