Immigrant prisoners turn to each other for assistance

Written by Julia Paul Monday, 23 March 2009 15:00

Immigrants are the fastest growing segment in the nation's private prison system, but often have the least access to legal counsel.


Just days before the end of the administration, then-Attorney General Michael Mukasey placed strict limits on immigrant's legal rights, and ruled that those facing deportation do not have a Constitutional right to request a new hearing if their lawyer was incompetent of fraudulent. With few legal options, immigrant prisoners must turn to fellow prisoners for help with their cases. Julia Paul reports for FSRN on how these jailhouse lawyers can be a lifeline for those fighting deportation.