Being an immigration lawyer in the United States is a constant challenge, especially during times of political instability. This article offers a reflection on how to face the emotional and professional difficulties of practicing law in a context of ever-changing immigration policies.
Emotional Balance in Times of Change
The Trump administration marked an era of mass deportations and border restrictions, which instilled fear and anxiety among immigrants. Currently, under President Joe Biden, the situation remains uncertain. While some changes have been attempted, immigration courts are still overwhelmed with the sheer volume of cases.
As a lawyer, you must be emotionally prepared for this ever-changing environment. Resilience is key to continuing the fight for justice.
My Experience as an Immigrant and Lawyer
I am an immigrant myself. I was born in Colombia and came to the United States to escape the civil war. Like many immigrants, I faced cultural and linguistic barriers, as I did not speak English upon arrival. However, determination became my driving force.
I graduated with honors from Gonzaga University, both in undergraduate studies and law school. Within less than a decade, I founded my own business, purchased a home, and became a U.S. citizen.
This personal experience has given me a deep understanding of the challenges immigrants face. As an immigration lawyer, I not only defend their rights but also share an emotional connection with their stories. While this adds significant emotional weight, it also fuels my drive to advocate for a fairer and more efficient immigration reform.
The Impact of Legal Decisions on Immigrants’ Lives
In a recent interview with Parriva, I discussed how policy changes have affected the lives of millions of immigrants. Many immigration courts are overwhelmed, and judges face the daunting task of deciding thousands of cases, often dismissing asylum stories due to workload pressures. This institutional fatigue directly impacts families seeking a better life.
At the same time, the use of immigrants as political pawns adds another layer of complexity to the immigration system. During the interview, I emphasized, “The country needs immigrants, not only for their labor but also for their economic contributions.” Advocating for meaningful immigration reform is crucial to overcoming political and bureaucratic obstacles.
The Importance of Emotional Resilience
Hearing heartbreaking stories from people seeking asylum or facing deportation inevitably takes an emotional toll. However, as lawyers, it is our responsibility to remain calm and continue fighting for justice.
I recall sharing in the interview: “I’d rather have nightmares about a judge’s decision than do nothing.” This statement underscores how essential it is to be emotionally prepared for the realities of this profession.
Perspectives for the Future
Despite the challenges, I remain optimistic. The path to fair immigration reform is long, but every step matters. Recognizing and implementing comprehensive immigration reform is a good starting point. The fight for a more just immigration system continues, and it is our duty as lawyers to ensure that every story is heard and treated with the respect it deserves.
This is a call to all those working to defend immigrants’ rights: let’s keep moving forward, maintaining hope and commitment to justice.
