Feds Build Database for Immigrant Volunteer Lawyers
Published Date: 12/19/2025
Notice
Summary
The Department of Justice’s Executive Office for Immigration Review is launching a new online system to manage a list of pro bono legal helpers. This system makes it easier for lawyers and organizations to apply, update info, and communicate with the government. The new system starts now, and folks have until January 20, 2026, to share their thoughts.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Online Pro Bono Provider Portal
EOIR launched an online Pro Bono List User Portal that lets organizations, referral services, and attorneys apply to be on the List, update their contact information, and communicate with EOIR. The portal is active now and is intended to simplify the application and update process.
Public Quarterly Pro Bono Lists Posted
EOIR will generate and post a publicly available List of Pro Bono Legal Service Providers at least quarterly and distribute copies to immigration courts and DHS. The List includes non-profit organizations and attorneys who have committed to providing at least 50 hours per year of pro bono legal services.
Data Collection, Sharing, and Retention Rules
The system will collect records including names, EOIR ID numbers, contact information, pro bono service areas, declarations, alien registration numbers, and reported dates and hours of service. Records are stored in EOIR's Microsoft Dynamics system in the DOJ EOIR Microsoft Azure Cloud and may be disclosed to DHS, other federal agencies, law enforcement, contractors, and the public under specified routine uses. Quarterly Lists are retained until the end of the calendar year and destroyed 4 years thereafter; application files are destroyed 3 years after cutoff.
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