Like most detainees, he is here w/o a lawyer & likely won't be able to afford one
"You can continue to look for an attorney to represent you."
They can certainly look.
He nods.
"Yes?"
"Yes, sir."
Every organization on that list is outstanding, but they can't take most of these cases. They are just a bucket in the ocean.
The judge advises him that proceeding w/o an attorney would not be a very good idea, as he only has one chance at bond & no evidence w/him. He provides the legal standard for bond. The kid is unmoved.
"Can it be next week?"
His hair is thick, curly, perfectly styled. He exudes pure will. I hope it works out for him.
The judge explains his burden of proof to show that he is not a danger to persons or property or a flight risk, and that he will only have one chance at a bond hearing, no matter what
--he's 20
--came to the US 3 months ago, detained since then
--he came seeking protection after being punished by govt for taking part in student protests
--he has some relatives in FL
The ICE atty argues that he should be held w/o bond bc there's no proof of where he'd go upon release
There is actually a very good explanation for the discrepancy. He explains it thoroughly. He is clearly very well educated.
This is something a lawyer could have caught and presented to the court up front. The discrepancy really did seem logical, he just couldn't explain it as well as a lawyer would have.
--almost certainly not get a lawyer
--have to prepare his entire asylum case in ICE custody
--have to arrange to have any supporting docs/evidence sent to him in custody
--be much more likely to lose his claim for asylum
This would have made the difference. It may end up being life & death
The attorney hands up a thick packet of supporting documents. The judge reviews them & peppers him w/questions.
Imagine doing that from jail without a lawyer.
The kid has been in custody for more than a year.
I'm not playing good immigrant/bad immigrant here, but it seems like something the public might want to know?
On the train home now. My entire body is numb. I completely forgot to eat today.
Feeling the need to assure you that we don't usually have *this* much bad news. Not all in one week, anyway.