New Jersey invests over $20 million in legal defense for immigrants facing deportation

New Jersey has initiated a significant expansion of its legal aid programs for immigrants, backed by an investment exceeding $20 million. Governor Mikie Sherrill announced the new phase, emphasizing its role in bolstering defenses against deportation and detention.

A core component of this initiative is the substantial increase in funding for the "Initiative to Defend Against Detention and Deportation" (DDDI). This program received an additional $12 million, bringing its total budget to $20.2 million. This financial boost is expected to allow for more beneficiaries and broader access to free legal services.

Governor Sherrill stated, "Every person deserves to be treated with dignity and enjoy the rights enshrined in our Constitution. These rights include access to due process and a fair hearing under the law, regardless of their place of birth." The state authorities specified that these resources will primarily assist low-income individuals navigating immigration processes who cannot afford private legal representation.

In addition to the DDDI, the state has established the "Rapid Legal Response Initiative" (RLRI). This program, a collaboration between the Office of New Americans and Seton Hall University School of Law, aims to provide immediate legal intervention in situations requiring swift action to protect the constitutional rights of individuals detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Tools like habeas corpus petitions, which challenge the legality of detention in federal court, are part of the RLRI's strategy, alongside seeking judicial measures to halt deportations or transfers that could impede legal defense or family contact.