Asylum clients are like no other clients in the legal system. An asylum client's experiences and trauma span the globe and involve some of the worst human rights violations of our time. Successfully communicating their story poses unique and fascinating challenges for advocates. From filing the application to preparing for an immigration interview, an asylum applicant faces an intensive and daunting immigration process that many worthy applicants cannot navigate.

Asylum Step By Step is a four part series designed to provide volunteer attorneys with skills and techniques necessary to successfully represent asylum seekers, to help avoid common pitfalls, and to give advocates an opportunity to learn from experienced attorneys.


Getting The Story Out: Interviewing Trauma Victims
October 5, 2016
Noon - 1 p.m.
This session will train advocates to adequately prepare and conduct successful client interviews with individuals that have experienced significant violence and may be suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

In Her Own Words: Drafting the Asylum Affidavit
October 12, 2016
Noon - 1 p.m.
This training will provide practitioners with tips, strategies, and clear examples of how to transform a long, in-depth interview into a detailed and credible personal statement that will give your client's story clarity and power.

Corroborating the Case: Proper Use of Witnesses and Evidence
October 19, 2016
Noon - 1 p.m.
This training will focus on utilizing documentary evidence and supplemental affidavits from witnesses or service providers to strengthen parts of your client's narrative and bolster your client's legal argument.

Telling The Story: Preparing To Testify
October 26, 2016
Noon - 1 p.m.
This session will instruct advocates on what to expect during immigration proceedings and how to prepare your client to provide oral testimony under oath.