This advanced legal course provides a detailed, practice-focused analysis of removal and deportation proceedings under U.S. immigration law. Students will explore the statutory and procedural framework that governs removal—beginning with charging documents and extending through immigration court hearings, appeals, and judicial review. Emphasis is placed on grounds of removability and inadmissibility, defenses and forms of relief, prosecutorial discretion, detention and bond, and post-order enforcement issues.
The course incorporates hands-on legal training through simulations, motion drafting, and strategic case analysis, equipping students to act as advocates in removal defense or as legal advisors for detained or at-risk noncitizens. Case preparation integrates litigation before the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) and federal courts, with consideration for trauma-informed client representation and legal ethics in high-stakes removal contexts.
Course Objectives
By the end of this course, students will be able to:
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Understand the statutory structure and key regulatory provisions governing removal proceedings.
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Identify, assess, and contest grounds of inadmissibility and removability.
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Navigate procedural rules, burdens of proof, and evidentiary requirements before EOIR.
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Evaluate and pursue relief from removal including asylum, cancellation, waivers, and adjustment.
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Prepare and present effective legal arguments in master calendar and individual hearings.
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Handle detention, bond hearings, prosecutorial discretion, and post-removal legal options.
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Advise clients, NGOs, and legal teams on high-risk cases with effective legal strategies.
