FEBRUARY 2001
RESOLVED, That the American Bar Association supports the appointment of counsel at government expense for unaccompanied children for all stages of immigration processes and proceedings;
FURTHER RESOLVED, that the American Bar Association favors the establishment within the Department of Justice of an independent office with child welfare expertise that would have an oversight role and ensure that children’s interests are respected at all stages of immigration processes and while in immigration custody; and,
FURTHER RESOLVED, that children in immigration custody cannot be released to family members, legal guardians or other appropriate adults and should be housed in culturally-appropriate family-like settings and not detained in facilities with or for juvenile offenders.