Law360 Spotlights Winston & Strawn Pro-Bono Remote DACA Renewal Clinics

Since the creation of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) immigration policy, which allows undocumented individuals who were brought to the United States as children to obtain work permits, Winston & Strawn attorneys have hosted pro-bono clinics to assist applicants through the process.

As Law360 reports in its latest Pro Bono Spotlight, the era of social distancing due to COVID-19 has called for innovative thinking to carry out the work remotely and make sure clients can get their applications for DACA renewal in on time. 

Pro bono counsel Maria Kutnick explains to Law360, a pending Supreme Court decision about the program creates an even greater sense of urgency. "We're really not sure how the ruling will roll out," Kutnick said. "What if the government stops taking applications that day? That's why we're trying to help get the applications in as quickly as possible to get another two years of deferred action and employment authorization."

Since early April, Kutnick, along with attorneys like associate Charles Vargo—also interviewed for the piece—have been navigating a complex process of WebEx attorney trainings, phone call client meetings and expedited application shipping to help more than 30 DACA recipients re-apply for the program through three virtual clinics. The next virtual clinic will be held May 14, with plans to continue them as long as necessary.

A full version of the article is available here. 

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