California immigrants accused of a crime may have to wait a lengthy period of time before receiving any legal assistance. Sometimes an immigrant could be deported before ever receiving the help they need and in other cases they may have been involved in a crime and could serve as a witness to help in a criminal trial. Either way, many of these people are deported by the United States government before they ever receive the chance to testify or defend their own innocence. Representation for detainees is a right, and now defense lawyers across the country are crying foul at what they perceive to be a grave injustice.
California immigrants seek license, path to permanent residence
California immigrants who have met all of the state's requirements for practicing law may be interested in the campaign of an organization called the DREAM Bar Association (DBA). Their goal is to help undocumented immigrants realize their dreams of being able to practice law in this country. They also hope the campaign will not only help them with their professional dreams, but also pave the way for permanent residence.
California asylum cases could take years to be heard
New reports concerning the backlog of federal immigration courts may be a cause of concern to California immigrants detained by authorities. Reports show the court's handling of undocumented immigrants' cases are flawed and the caseloads are falling behind tremendously. Even in cases where the immigrant is not seeking asylum, immigrants could wait over a year and a half to have their cases adjudicated.
California seems to relax towards immigration policies
The state of California has seen a shift in immigrant tolerance in recent years, highlighting a dramatic change in attitudes from almost 20 years ago. Based upon past patterns of voting, California was once quite intolerant of immigration. This is evidenced by a 1994 vote on Proposition 187, which barred undocumented immigrants from public schools and hospitals.
California work visa: Study shows positive effect from immigrants
A surprising new study shows that while immigrants in this country have had a slightly negative impact on wages for American employees who compete with them, overall they made quite a positive impact on the American economy. While the news is good, it may not help California immigrants struggling to receive a work visa. Still, one economist believes that the wave of immigrants entering into this country from 1990 to 2007 actually increased the national income per worker.
