Offer non-detained individuals who are facing removal proceedings through the Seattle Immigration Court information and referrals to resources that can help them navigate a complex legal system.

Legal Education and Advocacy Program (LEAP) offered by Lutheran Community Services Northwest in SeaTac

Programs that provide information and guidance for people who have entered and remain in the U.S. illegally. Counseling usually focuses on their short-term needs; their rights regarding housing, employment and public benefits; and the agencies that will assist them despite their undocumented status.

Rights Counseling for Undocumented People

Programs that assist in filing applications by lawful permanent residents who have been in that status for at least five years (or three years if married to a U.S. citizen), who meet other eligibility requirements and who wish to become naturalized U.S. citizens. Applicants must pass a citizenship examination to determine whether they can speak and read English and have a knowledge of the fundamentals of American government, history and the Constitution; and must take an oath of allegiance to the United States.

Naturalization Support/Legal Services

Programs that assist in filing applications for discretionary relief in situations where the Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (BICE) can decide not to prosecute or remove (deport) a particular alien based on a recommendation of the District Director and Regional Commissioner. Factors in the recommendation and decision include but are not limited to immigration status, immigration history, length of residence in the U.S., criminal history, humanitarian concerns, the ultimate likelihood of removal, community attention and resources available in BICE. Also included are programs that accept applications from qualifying individuals who came to the United States as children and are seeking to defer removal or other enforcement actions under the provisions of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals policy.

Deferred Action on Alien Removal

Programs that assist in filing petitions for asylee status in situations where the individuals are unwilling or unable to return to or avail themselves of the protection of their country of nationality or last residence because they have been persecuted or have a well-founded fear of persecution based on their race, religion, political opinion, membership in a particular social group, or nationality. Asylum applications must be filed within one year of admission to the United States and can be made after admission or at a port of entry. Asylees may apply for lawful permanent resident status after one year.

Asylum Application Filing Assistance

Programs that provide assistance for non-citizens who are having difficulty understanding, accessing, and/or are unaware of government-sponsored entitlement programs and social services for which they are eligible including housing programs, employment assistance and job training, medical assistance, and other government entitlements. The program may help these individuals understand the eligibility criteria for benefits and services, the benefits/services available, the payment process and the rights of beneficiaries; provide consultation and advice; help them complete application forms; negotiate on their behalf with benefits administration and social service staff; and/or represent them in administrative processes or judicial litigation. Included are benefits counseling organizations that offer a range of advocacy services and legal aid programs that offer more formalized legal assistance.

Immigrant Benefits Assistance

Administrative law courts in the United States that handle removal proceedings of foreign nationals. The courts receive and adjudicate applications for immigration benefits in the context of removal proceedings and try individuals who are accused of violations of immigration law.

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Legal Education and Advocacy Program (LEAP) offered by Lutheran Community Services Northwest in SeaTac