PAIR's Pro Bono Asylum Program is the leading program in Massachusetts to recruit, mentor and train attorneys from private law firms to represent without charge low-income asylum-seekers who have fled from persecution throughout the world. The goal of this program is to secure safety for people who have tried to exercise freedoms we take for granted: the right to express opinions, freedom of speech and assembly, or the right to practice a religion.

The asylum process is long, complex, highly specialized, and often intimidating. Upon arrival in the U.S., asylum-seekers are hopeful about their newfound freedom, but soon learn how overwhelming the asylum process can be. All PAIR clients are matched with volunteer attorneys who prepare and present the client's case before the asylum office and/or the immigration court. Attorneys work with their clients to file the I-589 asylum application and to submit supporting evidence, including the client declaration, expert affidavits, and country condition documentation. PAIR has recruited, trained and mentored over 900 attorneys in private practice from Boston's leading law firms to represent asylum-seekers.

How You Can Help

You can make a difference! The PAIR Project has several compelling asylum cases that require pro bono representation. If interested, contact Anita Sharma.

Upcoming Training:
Pro bono attorneys are invited to attend “Representing Asylum Seekers,” a training on asylum law and practice, on Nov. 3, 2008 at the law firm of WilmerHale.  The fee is $75, covering the cost of training materials. Please visit our Trainings page for more details.