Kids in Need of Defense (KIND) Pro Bono Representation Information and Training Session

Please join Crowell & Moring for a Kids in Need of Defense (KIND) training and information session on providing pro bono representation to unaccompanied immigrant children.

This session will explore how to assist these vulnerable children in obtaining Special Immigrant Juveniles Status (SIJS), a protective status that prevents children’s deportation.  

KIND, a nonprofit created by Microsoft and Angelina Jolie, provides representation to unaccompanied immigrant children and places some of these cases with pro bono attorneys at private firms such as ours. KIND provides training, mentorship, and extensive resource materials throughout the case to help pro bono attorneys navigate the process. 
      
Crowell & Moring has a record of accepting these cases, and we hope to lend KIND even greater assistance now.  We would welcome your participation as well. 

This is a great opportunity to learn how you might lend a hand to a worthy cause. Of course, there is no commitment of any kind — you are not required to take a case if you attend. Attorneys who do wish to handle a matter and who prefer to do so on their own can coordinate with their respective organizations and KIND. Those who wish to team up on a case with a Crowell & Moring attorney should contact Crowell & Moring Public Service Partner Susan Hoffman to discuss arrangements. 

About the program

The KIND training session will teach the essentials of SIJS.

Topics include:

• How does SIJS protect children from removal? What are some potential SIJS scenarios?
• Common issues in family court practice.
• Tips for interviewing children and drafting effective affidavits.
• Managing your relationship with the child’s adult caretaker.
• Steps after family court: Pursuing status as a Lawful Permanent Resident.

Presenters
Wendy Wylegala, Esq., Supervising Attorney for Pro Bono Programs (NY), KIND
Sarah Burrows, Esq., Pro Bono Coordinating Attorney, KIND