Over 100 Clients Served First 100 days

It’s been just over 100 days since the new Administration took charge of the federal immigration system, VAAP’s growing legal team has mobilized with unwavering commitment to serve and defend migrant communities across Vermont and beyond.

In a powerful show of solidarity and strategy, we partnered with pro bono attorneys to deliver clinic-style asylum legal services to over 100 migrant workers—supporting them in initiating asylum applications as both primary and derivative applicants. We also prepared dozens of Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS) petitions, opening pathways to safety and stability.

Even as federal funding was pulled, we stood firm in our commitment to unaccompanied children, continuing to directly represent more than a dozen young clients in their removal proceedings. Our in-house removal defense caseload remained steady, and we proudly launched a detained practice—already supporting the safe return of half a dozen detained Vermonters and providing counsel to several others.

Our impact extends beyond individual representation. We’ve supported pro bonos in securing their clients’ green cards, asylum grants, and termination of removal proceedings. Weekly case rounds have grown into a vibrant space for learning and collaboration, with a consistent dozen or more participants sharing insights and strategies.

And we’re not stopping there. Our litigation, advocacy, and community education efforts are expanding, with more on the horizon as we scale up staffing and deepen our commitment to justice. Together, we are building a legal ecosystem rooted in care, courage, and collective power.