Court blocks Trump’s cut to legal aid for migrant kids
A federal judge has ordered the government to restore legal aid for 26,000 unaccompanied migrant children.
Judge Araceli Martinez-Olguin in San Francisco blocked the administration’s plan to end its contract with the Acacia Center for Justice, which provides legal support to migrant minors.
The ruling prevents the children from losing vital legal help as they face complex immigration proceedings.
The case was brought by Acacia’s subcontractors, who say a 2008 anti-trafficking law requires legal support for these vulnerable children.
Advocates argue many of the kids are too young, traumatized, or don’t speak English — making legal aid essential.
The judge agreed, saying legal support boosts fairness and efficiency in the immigration system.
The ruling is temporary and lasts until April 16.
The government claims it ended the contract due to budget cuts and insists legal groups can still offer free help.
But critics argue the administration must have a plan to protect the children.
Karen Tumlin of the Justice Action Center emphasized in court the administration cannot simply revoke funding without ensuring an alternative plan.
Jonathan Ross of the Department of Justice countered that legal aid groups remain free to offer their services pro bono.
However, plaintiffs insist the $5 billion in congressional funding allocated for legal representation must be honored.
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