(Last updated on September 2023)
At My Undocumented Life, we have compiled this list of legal resources. We are continually expanding this page as more information comes in so be sure to bookmark it.
FINDING AN IMMIGRATION LAWYER
In addition to asking relatives and friends about their recommendations for an immigration lawyer who could assist you with your questions, concerns, and/or applications, there might be an immigrant rights organization in your city or state that provides free or low-cost immigration-related legal services.
There are also several websites you can use to search for an immigration lawyer or legal service provider in your area. The American Immigration Lawyers Association, for example, create a search tool where you can locate immigration lawyers near your area. The page provides both English/Spanish options. ImmigrationLawHelp.org has an interactive map you can use to find a legal service provider. If you live in the state of California, the State Bar compiled a list of helpful immigration legal services providers available to individuals with low or moderate incomes.
The coalition, Informed Immigrant, also compiled helpful information and resources to help you navigate the process of identifying a trustworthy immigration lawyer. You can read their advice here, including red flags to watch out for, questions to ask, how to prepare for your first appointment, and more.
RESOURCES IF DETAINED/DEPORTED
In this handbook, you will find information about how to manage your bank account if inside a detention center, the power of attorney, how to receive packages while in detention, and more. This separate manual is meant to assist individuals who are in detention. It includes information on accessing one’s bank account, collecting unpaid wages, and more. Lastly, this manual offers information on the criminal justice and deportation systems, including tips and advocacy strategies for people at risk of deportation.
KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
If you are a member of an undocumented or mixed-status family (that is, where at least one member is undocumented), it is important to be aware of your legal rights. This is a helpful preventative strategy, especially in the event that you encounter law or immigration enforcement. There are several organizations across the country that aim to equip immigrants with information about their legal rights. The American Immigration Council published a helpful overview of “the right to remain silent” and to “speak with an immigration attorney”, amongst others. The ACLU offers detailed information about deportations and your rights here. It offers an overview of everyone’s basic rights, and halfway through the slides there is specific information for the undocumented community, including the following: keeping your paperwork ready, not signing documents, seeking lawyer and consulate advice, and more.
INFORMATION ABOUT DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals)
At My Undocumented Life, we have created this page on the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program to provide you with up-to-date information and resources regarding DACA, including what DACA is, where to find reliable sources of information, the latest news, information on how to renew your DACA, ways to advocate for DACA, and answers to frequently asked questions.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
The political landscape is constantly changing. Check out this page to stay up-to-date with the latest immigration-related news and policies.
At My Undocumented Life, we have also compiled resources related to your health, high school, college, graduate school, and Covid-19.
Whether you are looking for ways to support community efforts, considering becoming an organizer, or already a leader in your community, here are resources to help you stay connected and up-to-date, including news about upcoming events, webinars, and more.
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At My Undocumented Life we provide up-to-date information and resources for undocumented immigrants and allies. We post scholarship opportunities that are open to undocumented students, strategies for navigating the educational system, information on how to apply for DACA/Advance Parole, news on DAPA, and much more. Most importantly, we want to provide a sense of community to our diverse group of readers. Learn more about our work here: “About Us“
