Legal services for refugees, immigrants, and asylum seekers continue to be an immense service gap in the communities of Eastern Washington. There are only a handful of private attorneys practicing immigration law in the Spokane Area, with only one of those providing a sliding-scale discount, and no attorneys doing pro bono work.

While all cases cost more than the client in need can afford, asylum cases are the costliest, with charges ranging from $5,000-$10,000. Many asylum seekers are escaping violence and arrive at our borders with nothing but the clothes on their backs and do not have access to legal support or the monetary resources to start their new lives. However, seeking asylum is a human right protected by US laws and should not mean that those who need that support should have to go into debt.

To help fill this gap, LES has been providing monthly immigration clinics in partnership with Gonzaga’s School of Law. The students provide consultation and technical support to attendees. Even with the education and resources provided in these clinics, attendees still struggle to navigate the complicated and unfamiliar United States Judicial system.

As Spokane continues to welcome more and more incoming refugees, immigrants, and asylum seekers, the already limited resources available will be insufficient to meet the needs. But we also know that immigrants who are represented by an attorney are five times more likely to win their cases. This need can’t be ignored.

In response, Latinos En Spokane has created a legal immigration team. This team will include a full-time attorney (who will provide pro bono legal services) and offer important educational workshops to help refugees, immigrants, and asylum seekers develop an understanding of their rights and how to navigate the legal system.