asylum
Asylum is a form of protection granted by the United States to people from other countries. Under federal law, someone may be eligible for asylum in the United States if they have a fear of persecution in their home country because of their race, religion, nationality, political opinions, or membership in a particular social group. Providing assistance to individuals seeking asylum in Maine has been a key part of ILAP’s identity since our inception in 1993 as a volunteer lawyers’ project. Today, we provide comprehensive legal services to asylum seekers to help them find safety from persecution, attain work authorization, and, ultimately, help strengthen our communities.
Full Representation and Pro Bono Asylum Panel
ILAP provides full representation to individuals seeking asylum by placing their case with a lawyer from our Pro Bono Asylum Panel. These volunteer attorneys help clients complete and submit their application for asylum, prepare for their interview with an Asylum Officer and, when necessary, present their case in a hearing before an immigration judge. Because we lack the capacity to represent every asylum seeker in need of an attorney, individuals seeking asylum must go through an intake and screening process before their case can be placed.
Learn more about our Pro Bono Panel here.
EDUCATION AND OUTREACH
ILAP provides free step-by-step guides and other information for individuals applying for asylum without a lawyer. These resources are available in various languages and formats, including an updated self-help asylum manual, video series, and a growing list of related resources on our website. Additionally, we host regular informational workshops online and in the community in collaboration with partners.
More information is available on our Asylum Information page.