Legal Referrals

There are a variety of avenues through which immigrants can find legal assistance in connection with the filing of an immigration application/petition, as well as with other legal issues.

 When providing assistance in this area, librarians should keep in mind the guidelines provided on our Legal Issues page.  Here, we highlight several government agencies that can offer assistance with legal issues, questions or concerns related to immigration.


Questions pertaining to USCIS's treatment of immigration case?

If they have filed a petition/application, immigrants can contact the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Ombudsman. The Ombudsman, acting impartially and confidentially, can offer assistance to immigrants who are unable to resolve a problem through direct communication with the USCIS. Case problems can be submitted to the Ombudsman online .

Questions about filing an appeal related to an immigration application/petition?

The Department of Justice Board of Immigration Appeals (“BIA”) is the highest administrative body in the realm of immigration law, hearing appeals from decisions rendered by immigration judges and by district directors of the DHS.

BIA provides a state-by-state list of free/low-cost legal service providers of organizations/attorneys who can assist indigent individuals in immigration removal proceedings. For each provider, the directory offers information about the types of cases they take (e.g., aliens seeking asylum), the languages spoken, whether they may charge a nominal fee in certain circumstances, and whether an appointment is necessary. 

Questions about resolving specific legal issues?

The Office of Refugee Resettlement, within the Administration for Children & Families (U.S. Department of Health & Human Services), operates a number of programs that provide legal assistance to certain populations. Examples include unaccompanied alien children and survivors of torture. Although specific information about the legal services available is not provided, a contact person is designated for each program.