About Us

What We Do

The Commission acts in coordination with other Association entities, as well as governmental and non-governmental bodies to advocate for modifications in law and governmental practice; provide continuing education and timely information about trends, court decisions and pertinent developments for members of the legal community; and assist the operation of pro bono programs that encourage volunteer lawyers to provide legal representation for individuals in immigration proceedings.

History

Guided by resolutions adopted by the ABA House of Delegates, the Commission works to coordinate and strengthen the ABA’s response to legal developments and to address the needs of immigrants and newcomers. Among our greatest concerns are the erosion of due process safeguards, the growing reliance on detention, and the lack of access to legal information and counsel for individuals in immigration proceedings, including vulnerable groups such as unaccompanied immigrant children and mentally disabled individuals. The ABA Board of Governors has designated immigration to be a legislative priority of the ABA in each Congress since 1992.