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<br /> <br />Proposed Work Plan <br />Anticipated Approach <br />ImmDef’s representation model is grounded in a universal approach to legal defense, which includes <br />handling a wide range of immigration proceedings and appeals for individuals facing removal. Our staff is <br />well-versed in the complexities of removal, deportation, bond, expedited removal, and exclusion <br />proceedings, and regularly works with detained individuals at Desert View Annex, Mesa Verde, Otay <br />Mesa and Golden State Annex detention facilities. We ensure comprehensive representation for each <br />client by conducting thorough screenings to determine eligibility. Under prior funding from the City of <br />Santa Ana we focused on Santa Ana residents as a priority but also accepted referrals from clients with <br />strong connections to the city. This approach allows us to respond quickly and provide on-the-spot legal <br />representation when eligible. <br />For detained clients, ImmDef will represent individuals in bond hearings, petitions for writ of habeas <br />corpus, ICE detainer rescission requests, parole requests, and other forums challenging detention <br />conditions where applicable. Our staff attorneys are adept at handling these complex cases, often <br />requiring detailed legal research, coordination with government agencies, and preparation of strategic <br />case theory. Representation in asylum-only or withholding-only proceedings is provided by our <br />experienced attorneys who are familiar with federal immigration judges, and we are prepared to handle <br />appeals to the BIA or the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. This includes assisting with Motions to Reopen, <br />petitions for review, and motions for stays of removal, ensuring our clients have continued representation <br />through the appellate process. <br />ImmDef’s model also covers representation in state court proceedings, such as Special Immigrant <br />Juvenile Status and Post-Conviction Relief cases. We understand the intersection of immigration and <br />criminal law, and our staff attorneys are experienced in navigating these complex cases. ImmDef <br />maintains a robust team of experienced staff for Post Conviction Relief, a feature that is extremely rare <br />among immigration legal non-profits nationwide. This specialized team handles intricate matters with <br />expertise and focus. Our commitment extends beyond the initial representation period; we continue to <br />support clients through motions to reopen or reconsider final administrative orders and related state court <br />matters. Additionally, we utilize our robust case management system, Cerenade, to monitor client <br />progress, update case files, and maintain communication between our team and Santa Ana’s Project <br />Manager. This system enables us to produce detailed quarterly reports, attend in-person meetings as <br />requested, and ensure ongoing transparency and accountability in our service provision. <br />Suggestions and Concerns <br />ImmDef currently has 52 active cases that are funded by the City of Santa Ana, reflecting its commitment <br />to providing robust removal defense services that align with the City's dedication to justice and equity in <br />immigration proceedings. Removal defense cases often require significant time and resources, with many <br />lasting several years before reaching resolution. Notably, some Santa Ana clients have been represented <br />by ImmDef for over five years due to the complexities of immigration law and procedural delays. <br />ImmDef looks forward to the opportunity to continue partnering with the City of Santa Ana. However, if <br />the City of Santa Ana decides not to select ImmDef as a partner for this round of proposals, we would like <br />the chance to discuss funding options and establish a plan of action for these cases to ensure that the <br />clients are fully served and supported. <br />15