In this journal, I want to reflect specifically on my experience at Dilley. Arriving to Dilley, I didn’t know exactly what to expect given all the uncertainty leading up to trip. Once Shay gave an overview of several cases that we would each be assigned, I felt better knowing that I could expend all my efforts into one case. When I found out that Jared and I were assigned to Marie’s case, I was a bit apprehensive because I knew how difficult and urgent this case was given her four prior denials. Once we organized as a group, it was frustrating trying to locate documents on the Innovative Law Lab system, especially since so many documents were either missing or mislabeled. Thankfully were able to get collect some information before meeting …show more content…
It’s depressing to see these women and children in a prison. It’s even more saddening to know that they do not have a right to an attorney, unlike a criminal proceeding. Several of these women and children will be deported without an opportunity to be heard.
Given the new administration, it is particularly alarming that it has become even more difficult for these women to obtain legal counsel. It was upsetting to find out that the detention facility has not been allowing student attorneys, paralegals, or social workers inside to meet with clients. I am concerned that the new administration will expand the family detention practice. To my surprise, the Dilley and Karnes facility remain open, despite their failure to meet licensing requirements. It would be preferable for these detention centers to not exist. These women and children are not national security threats. They are human beings who are fleeing horrible violence. Detaining these families will only result in more trauma.
Going to Dilley made me realize that these individuals need many attorneys who are willing to help them. Given that the two family detention centers in Texas are in such close proximity, I want to be one of these attorneys in the future, an attorney who is willing to help these