Alone in Immigration Court: What the Rise in Self-Representation Means for Immigrants Today

In 2025, more immigrants are being forced to defend themselves in immigration court without legal representation—and the consequences are devastating. As immigration enforcement intensifies and federal support for legal aid is rolled back, we are witnessing a growing crisis: a system that expects people to fight for their freedom and future—without a lawyer by their side.

The most recent data shows that nearly half of all individuals in removal proceedings are unrepresented. Among those who are detained, the numbers are even worse. This surge in self-representation isn’t happening in a vacuum. Since early 2025, the Trump administration has eliminated key legal orientation programs in detention centers, terminated partnerships with nonprofit legal service providers, and fast-tracked deportation hearings through “expedited dockets” with limited notice.

At Katsivalis & Anderson Law, we see the human toll of these changes every day. We work with families who are terrified, isolated, and overwhelmed by a legal system they do not understand. In many cases, these are people with deep roots in the U.S., U.S. citizen children, and strong equities—yet without an attorney, they are often unable to present evidence, understand eligibility for relief, or meet procedural requirements. And in immigration court, there is no right to appointed counsel, no matter how complex the case or how vulnerable the individual.

Legal representation can mean the difference between staying with your family and being permanently separated from them. Studies show that individuals with lawyers are up to ten times more likely to succeed in their cases, particularly when applying for asylum, cancellation of removal, or other forms of relief. But with immigration courts overwhelmed, enforcement increasing, and legal resources shrinking, it is getting harder for individuals to access the help they need.

What We’re Doing—and How We Continue to Support the Fight for Due Process

Our firm remains committed to supporting access to justice in sustainable ways. We continue to:

• Mentor attorneys who are stepping into immigration court practice, helping grow the network of qualified removal defense providers;

• Collaborate with nonprofit partners to ensure that low-income individuals can be connected with available legal aid and public interest firms;

• Work with financing partners to help clients identify manageable payment plans, so that those facing deportation can access quality defense even when resources are limited.

  
  

We recognize that the need is greater than the capacity of any one law firm or nonprofit. But through collective effort, mentorship, and innovation, we can help ensure that families are not left alone in the face of government removal efforts.

If You’re Facing Immigration Court: Don’t Wait

If you or someone you love is in removal proceedings—or has been detained by ICE—it is essential to speak with an attorney as early as possible. Whether or not you can afford full legal representation today, an initial consultation can clarify your options, identify defenses, and begin to build the record you may later need to succeed.

We are here to guide you through that process. At Katsivalis & Anderson Law, we focus on providing honest, thorough legal advice so that individuals and families can make informed decisions. If we are unable to take your case, we will do everything we can to connect you with resources or financing options that support your defense.

Immigrants should not have to face a judge alone. But when they do, the preparation they’ve received—and the legal support they’ve had along the way—can make all the difference.

Contact us at 773-657-3633 to schedule a consultation and learn more about your rights in immigration court.