Unaccompanied Minors Face Immigration Court Without Legal Counsel Amid Federal Funding Gap

A recent shift in federal contracting has left numerous unaccompanied minors appearing in Downtown Manhattan immigration courts without legal representation. The situation stems from the expiration of a federal agreement that previously provided counsel for over 24,000 children nationwide. While the administration has announced a new $150 million contract with the Texas-based Burke Law Group, the transition period—which lasts until mid-August—has created a significant service void.

During recent virtual hearings, children were observed attempting to navigate complex legal requirements, such as filing asylum applications in English, without the assistance of an attorney. In several instances, judges set follow-up hearing dates for only a few weeks out, a timeline that advocates describe as insufficient for securing counsel or preparing a defense. Jessica Richardson, an attorney with the nonprofit organization The Door, noted that the current schedule does not allow enough time for children to find representation, build rapport, or properly document their claims.

Faiza Ali, commissioner of the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs, attended the proceedings to observe the impact of these changes. Following the hearings, Ali stated that the convergence of federal policy shifts and the expiration of legal aid contracts is exacerbating the crisis for vulnerable minors.

Unlike in criminal proceedings, children in immigration court are not guaranteed government-funded legal counsel. As a result, many respondents are left to manage their cases pro se. In one instance, a child appearing in court expressed uncertainty regarding how to complete the necessary asylum paperwork, with the presiding judge indicating that the court could not provide direct assistance in filling out the forms.

Legal advocates remain concerned that the accelerated pace of these hearings, combined with the lack of available counsel, could lead to unfavorable outcomes for children who may have valid claims for relief. The new federal contract is expected to take effect on August 15, at which point legal services are slated to resume under the new oversight.