Why DOJ ordered these Seattle lawyers to stop helping some immigrants

"The cease and desist order came as a shock. It was from the U.S. Justice Department, ordering a group of Seattle lawyers to stop helping in some deportation cases.

The lawyers contend DOJ’s action could cut off free legal help for thousands of immigrants across the country, and they're fighting back with a lawsuit.

“It has a dramatic impact,” said Matt Adams, legal director of the Northwest Immigrant Rights Project (NWIRP), the group suing the Justice Department. “More than 30 organizations and firms have issued declarations, talking about how the government’s cease and desist order would create havoc with the services they’re providing around the country.”

In immigration court, there's no right to an attorney. Most people can't afford to hire one on their own. So if a volunteer attorney offers to help out with your case, that’s a big deal. Especially if you’re locked up..."

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