Immigration

Seminar: SIJS Predicate Orders in Probate 101

SIJS is a form of protection available to immigrant children who have suffered abuse, abandonment, or neglect by a parent. In order to apply for the immigration benefit, the child must first be the subject of a state court order making specific findings regarding their best interests. Participants will learn how to file these cases in different types of courts in Illinois, as well as best practices for preparing the orders and working with clients. This training is intended for attorneys licensed in Illinois. Free CLE credit in Illinois is available.

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NEW IMMIGRATION-RELATED PRO BONO OPPORTUNITY

CVLS is seeking Spanish-speaking legal and non-lawyer volunteers to accompany unrepresented immigrants at deportation hearings, help them understand the proceedings, and communicate with the judge; no courtroom experience is required. With guidance from CVLS partners, volunteers prepare for the hearing, check in afterward, and help connect participants with needed services without representing them.

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U Visa Training Materials

Thank you for taking on a U Visa case with CVLS!  If you need to meet with a client at CVLS or schedule an interpreter, please reach out to Jennifer Guadarrama at jguadarrama@cvls.org.  Workflow and Templates U Visa CVLS Workflow 2026 Silva Case Editable Page Dividers U Visa Extortion Case Exhibit List Template Sample for

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Proud of our own

Rebekah Rashidfarokhi featured in The Washington Post We are honored that The Washington Post recently highlighted Rebekah Rashidfarokhi — CVLS’ Director of Guardianship & Immigration Programs for Children — for her vital work with immigrant families across Chicago. As deportation fears rise, Rebekah has helped parents create short-term guardianship plans so their children will be

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Championing Justice at the Mexican Consulate

Recently Jennifer Guadarrama, CVLS rockstar and immigration paralegal, represented us at the Mexican Consulate during their Semana Asesorías Legales Externas (Legal Consultations) #SALE2025 week. She met with prospective clients, processed some intakes, and shared helpful information to attendees. It was another great example of #ChicagoProBono in action. Great job Jennifer! Jennifer Guadarrama, CVLS Immigration Paralegal

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U Visa Overview Training

This 4-part on-demand training series is designed for pro bono attorneys handling U Visa cases post-law enforcement certification. From understanding the basics to drafting declarations, gathering evidence, and preparing forms, each session breaks down the process with practical guidance and real case examples.

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Immigration Detention and Removal: and Update from the Pro-Bono Bond Project

The Legal Services for Detainees Committee of the Chicago Chapter for the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) gives an update on the ongoings in Immigration Court, the new tactics of the Trump Administration in detaining and deporting non-citizens, a brief overview of habeas, and ways for attorneys to get involved in a volunteer capacity.

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