Pro Bono: Experience Through Service

This Week’s Immigration News Highlights

• Nonviolent Migrants are, also, Being Sent to Guantanamo Bay

• New York State Sued for “Sanctuary“ Status, Granting Undocumented Migrants Driver’s License

• Pope Advocates for Migrant’s Rights

Immigration law is at a critical crossroads. With policy shifts, legal battles, and increasing barriers for immigrants, the role of young attorneys has never been more vital. Whether fighting for vulnerable clients through pro bono work or demanding diversity and equity within the legal system, new lawyers have the power and the responsibility to shape the future of immigration law.

This week, we explore two key ways young attorneys can make an impact:

🔹 Pro Bono and Low Bono: Making a Difference While Building Experience – Taking on pro bono cases isn’t just about giving back; it’s a strategic career move that builds expertise and credibility while changing lives. Learn how to approach pro bono work smartly to develop your skills and grow your network.

🔹 Diversity in the Legal Profession: The Role of Young Lawyers in Shaping Immigration Policy – The legal field still has work regarding representation. But young lawyers—especially those in immigration—are uniquely positioned to push for change. We discuss how you can use your voice, practice, and advocacy to influence policy and uplift the next generation.

Your work matters. The voices of young attorneys matter. Let’s continue shaping an immigration system that is fairer, more just, and more inclusive - one case, one client, and one policy at a time.

Let’s get to work. 💪🏽✨

Pro Bono and Low Bono: Making a Difference While Building Experience

For young immigration attorneys, taking on pro bono and low-bono cases isn’t just about giving back. They are strategics move that builds skills, credibility, and a strong professional network.

Immigration law is deeply personal. Clients facing deportation, asylum claims, or family separation often don’t have the financial means for legal representation. By handling these cases, you gain valuable courtroom experience, sharpen your legal writing, and develop a deep understanding of immigration procedures that many big-firm associates won’t get early in their careers.

But be strategic. Early in my career, I remember answering a listing from an attorney asking for help with a Request for Evidence (RFE) on a Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) petition. Since RFEs are rare in these cases, I saw it as a chance to strengthen my legal analysis skills. I dove into both state and federal immigration law, crafting arguments to prove that the young client deserved SIJ status. That experience deepened my expertise and boosted my confidence in tackling complex cases.

I recommend partnering with reputable organizations like local nonprofits or law school clinics to ensure you have mentorship and support. And consider low bono work, which is offering services for reduced fees to clients who can pay something helps build a sustainable practice while still serving those in need.

Aside from personal fulfillment, pro bono work expands your network. Judges, senior attorneys, and even potential paying clients take notice when you advocate passionately for underserved communities. In many cases, young lawyers land jobs, referrals, or partnerships because of their dedication to access to justice.

The bottom line? Pro bono work can shape your career and not just change your clients’ lives.

Diversity in the Legal Profession: The Role of Young Lawyers in Shaping Immigration Policy

The legal profession is still playing catch-up regarding diversity and inclusion. But young attorneys - especially those practicing immigration law - have the power to change the system from within.

Take my personal experience: In the first few years of my career, I don’t always look like the typical attorney. I’ve walked into courtrooms where people assumed I was the interpreter or a client. But that never stopped me, and it shouldn’t stop you. If you know the law and are prepared, you belong at the table - and you have every right to shape the conversation.

As an immigration lawyer, you don’t just practice law - you shape policy. By representing diverse clients and advocating for fairer immigration laws, you help dismantle systemic barriers that disproportionately affect marginalized communities.

So how can young lawyers lead the way?

✅ Join organizations that push for change: Groups like the local Diversity & Inclusion Committee, affinity bar associations, and grassroots organizations need fresh voices.

✅ Advocate beyond the courtroom: Write op-eds, participate in public comment periods for new immigration rules, and educate your community.

✅ Mentor & uplift others: A more inclusive profession starts with mentorship. Offer guidance to first-gen law students or young lawyers of color entering the field.

Diversity isn’t just about who gets a seat at the table but who helps rewrite the rules. Young attorneys are the future of immigration law. Step up and shape it.

In Closing!

Connect with me at my LinkedIn account and follow Notice to All’s X (previously Twitter) account!

Also, if you’d love my expertise as an immigration attorney, feel free to book a call with me.

If you’ve enjoyed our newsletter and found it helpful, please share Notice to All with a friend. It’ll means the world to us! 💛

To all aspiring attorneys, I hope you can take some valuable lessons in building up to your careers. It’s a long and arduous journey, but one where you can positively change the lives of the people you serve.

And if you know an aspiring attorney, we’d love for you to share this article with them! ☺️

Until next time, happy early Valentine’s Day!