Adonia Simpson

Adonia R. Simpson is the Deputy Director of Policy and Pro Bono at the ABA Commission on Immigration (COI).  Ms. Simpson has substantial experience in both private practice and legal services.  She started her legal career as the Fellow for the Center for Law and Social Responsibility providing representation on Special Immigrant Juvenile cases at Greater Boston Legal Services.  During her Fellowship, she also participated in a trial observation in Colombia with the support of Rights and Democracy and Lawyers without Borders of Canada.  Following her fellowship, Ms. Simpson worked in private practice providing representation on defensive immigration and criminal matters.  She returned to nonprofit work as the Managing Attorney at Catholic Charities of Baltimore’s Immigration Legal Services at the Esperanza Center.  Prior to joining the COI team, Ms. Simpson spent five years developing and directing the Family Defense Program at Americans for Immigrant Justice in Miami, Florida. The program provided immigration education, screening, and representation to vulnerable immigrants throughout South Florida.  Her on-the-ground experience provides valuable insights on policy issues and pro bono engagement.  Ms. Simpson serves on various local and national immigration committees and working groups.  Ms. Simpson frequently lectures, writes, and gives interviews on immigration topics.