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Free legal counsel for unaccompanied children in immigration and removal proceedings.

This Act mandates the government to provide free legal counsel for unaccompanied children (noncitizens) during immigration removal proceedings. The change aims to increase fairness and efficiency in immigration courts by ensuring children have full access to their files and adequate time to prepare their defense. This program is funded by authorized budgetary appropriations for the Office of Refugee Resettlement.
Key points
Unaccompanied children in immigration cases will receive government-funded counsel unless they retain their own attorney.
Removal proceedings cannot proceed until the child or their counsel receives a complete copy of the immigration file (A-file) and has 10 days to review it.
If the government fails to provide counsel, the child can file a motion to reopen their case without typical limitations, which automatically stays (stops) the removal.
Authorities must ensure children have access to counsel inside all detention, holding, and border facilities.
article Official text account_balance Process page
Introduced
Citizen Poll
No votes cast
Additional Information
Print number: 119_S_1297
Sponsor: Sen. Hirono, Mazie K. [D-HI]
Process start date: 2025-04-03
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Summarized by: gemini-flash-latest
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Fair Day in Court for Kids Act of 2025

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 119_S_1297.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the Senate.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2025-04-03.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Unaccompanied children in immigration cases will receive government-funded counsel unless they retain their own attorney.
  • Removal proceedings cannot proceed until the child or their counsel receives a complete copy of the immigration file (A-file) and has 10 days to review it.
  • If the government fails to provide counsel, the child can file a motion to reopen their case without typical limitations, which automatically stays (stops) the removal.
  • Authorities must ensure children have access to counsel inside all detention, holding, and border facilities.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Introduced.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Sen. Hirono, Mazie K. [D-HI].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Introduced in Senate

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-31.

CATEGORIES

Migration Courts and Law