Public Law Center
Represent Afghan Refugees in Asylum Cases
Ensure Afghan refugees are able to safely remain in the United States
Posted April 29, 2022
Background & Context
In August 2021, when the Taliban took over Afghanistan, many residents of the country were forced to flee or go in to hiding. For those refugees who made it to the United States, often through the help of family members, friends, and colleagues, they have to restart their lives in a new country. One key component is ensuring that they are able to lawfully remain (and work) in the United States.
Immediate Problem
Thousands of refugees from Afghanistan made it to the United States. We believe there are a few hundred in Orange County, California. The refugees have approximately one year from their arrival date to request asylum to be able to remain, and work, in the United States. PLC is assisting as many refugees as possible with the applications, as well as accompanying the individuals to their asylum interviews.
Work & Deliverables
Lawyers will work with local Afghan refugees to complete their Asylum applications, including their declaration, submit the application and accompany the applicants to their asylum interview, expected to be scheduled approximately 4-6 weeks after the application is submitted.
Preparation Phase
- Attend training on 5/26 (or view on your own time)
Collaboration Phase
- Connect with client, begin gathering required information
- Complete Asylum application
- Draft, review/edit, and finalize supporting declaration
- Submit Asylum application
- Attend Asylum interview (in-person) with client
Wrap Up
- Communicate termination of assistance to client
- Send all client materials to PLC attorney for their continuing representation
Public Law Center
PLC is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides free civil legal services to low-income individuals and families in Orange County, California. PLC staff and volunteers provide assistance across a range of substantive areas of law, including consumer, family, immigration, housing, and health law. Additionally, PLC provides legal assistance to low-income small business owners and nonprofits serving clients similar to those of PLC. The services include counseling, individual representation, community education, and strategic litigation and advocacy to challenge societal injustices.
Public Law Center
PLC is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides free civil legal services to low-income individuals and families in Orange County, California. PLC staff and volunteers provide assistance across a range of substantive areas of law, including consumer, family, immigration, housing, and health law. Additionally, PLC provides legal assistance to low-income small business owners and nonprofits serving clients similar to those of PLC. The services include counseling, individual representation, community education, and strategic litigation and advocacy to challenge societal injustices.