Paloma Guerrero

What's the most important thing you are working on right now?

Whenever I meet with a client what I try and figure out first is how to get them out of ICE custody. One of my most important cases right now involves a client who has been in ICE custody for almost five years. Being in ICE custody is absolutely horrid. I’ve had clients get so depressed they stop eating. Human beings who need immediate medical attention and are not listened to, and even some who have been physically, verbally, and mentally abused by ICE officers. Getting them out is my priority.

What is the most significant issue facing your field and how should it be addressed?

We need more pro bono deportation defense lawyers in Nevada who focus their practice on people in ICE custody. In immigration court, even when it is the government putting you in proceedings, holding you away from your family and support system, trying to remove you from the United States, and is represented by a government attorney, if you cannot afford to hire an attorney you will be going through proceedings alone. Nevada needs lawyers to not only protect our undocumented community from deportation but to advocate for an end to immigration detention and abolishing ICE because they are an agency beyond reform that continually violates basic human rights.

What have you read, listened to, or watched recently that has influenced you or your work?

Attack on Titan.