Balancing the legal and human aspects of immigration law is one of the most challenging yet rewarding parts of my job. Immigration cases often involve life-altering decisions, so it’s vital to approach each case with a mix of legal precision and genuine empathy.

On the legal side, I focus on building the strongest possible case for my clients. This involves staying up-to-date on constantly changing immigration laws and precedents, as well as gathering detailed evidence to support claims for asylum or cancellation of removal. For example, in an asylum case, we may need to gather country condition reports, expert testimonies, and personal affidavits to establish the credibility and urgency of the client’s claim.

On the human side, it’s about being present and listening to my clients. Many of them carry heavy emotional burdens, and building trust is essential. I make it a point to explain legal processes in a way that’s clear and accessible, so clients feel empowered rather than overwhelmed. Advocacy is about more than just the courtroom—it’s about showing clients that they are not alone in this fight.

One case that has stayed with me involved a young mother seeking asylum after fleeing gender-based violence in her home country. She arrived in the U.S. with her toddler, completely alone and terrified of being sent back to a dangerous situation.

Her case was particularly complex because gender-based violence is not always clearly recognized as grounds for asylum under U.S. immigration law. We had to build a detailed case showing that her experiences constituted persecution and that returning to her country would put her and her child at significant risk.

After months of preparation and advocacy, we were able to secure asylum for her and her child. Seeing her relief and knowing that they could finally begin rebuilding their lives in safety was profoundly moving. That case reminded me why this work is so important. It’s not just about legal victories, it’s about giving people a chance to live with dignity and hope. That is why every win is deeply fulfilling.

‍

Removal defense cases are some of the most high-stakes and challenging cases in immigration law. Immigrants facing deportation often encounter significant barriers, including language obstacles, limited access to resources, and the emotional toll of being separated from their families.

One of the biggest challenges is the sheer complexity of the system. Immigration court proceedings are adversarial, and individuals are expected to navigate them without legal representation if they can’t afford an attorney. This puts them at a significant disadvantage, as the laws and procedures are highly technical.

At Pangea Legal Services, we address these challenges by providing high-quality legal representation and empowering clients through education. For instance, we hold workshops and community sessions to help individuals understand their rights and the steps involved in their cases. In the courtroom, we fight vigorously to ensure that our clients have a fair chance to present their case.

Another challenge is the emotional strain. Many of my clients live with the constant fear of deportation and its consequences. Part of my role is to provide reassurance and support, reminding them that they have a team standing with them every step of the way. It’s not an easy fight, but it’s one worth taking on.

Recent shifts in immigration policy have had a profound impact on our work at Pangea Legal Services. Over the last few years, we’ve seen an increasingly restrictive approach to immigration, which has made the process more challenging for our clients. For example, changes to asylum eligibility criteria and heightened scrutiny in removal defense cases have created additional hurdles. Policies that attempt to narrow protections for victims of gender-based violence or persecution based on social group membership have made it more difficult for vulnerable individuals to secure relief.

At the same time, there’s been an increase in court backlogs, which means clients face prolonged uncertainty about their futures. For many of them, waiting years for a decision can be incredibly stressful, especially when their safety or family reunification is on the line.

Our response has been to double down on advocacy and strategic litigation. We work closely with other legal aid organizations to challenge unjust policies and push for systemic change. On a client level, we ensure they feel supported throughout the process, keeping them informed and empowered as their cases progress. Immigration law is always evolving, and it’s critical to stay adaptable while remaining steadfast in our commitment to justice.

Community education is an integral part of my work as an immigration attorney. One of the most significant barriers immigrants face is a lack of understanding of their rights and the legal processes they are navigating. This lack of information often leads to fear and inaction, especially for individuals who don’t realize they might qualify for relief.

At Pangea Legal Services, we prioritize outreach and education to bridge this gap. We hold workshops, webinars, and in-person events in immigrant communities to provide accurate, accessible information about immigration laws and available resources. For example, we recently conducted a series of “Know Your Rights” sessions for individuals at risk of deportation. These sessions included practical advice on how to respond to immigration enforcement actions and how to gather essential documents for their cases.

By educating the community, we empower people to make informed decisions and take proactive steps to protect themselves and their families. It also creates a ripple effect—when one person understands their rights, they often share that knowledge with others. Community education is not just a tool for empowerment; it’s a form of resistance against an often-intimidating system.

The most rewarding aspect of my work is seeing the tangible impact it has on my clients’ lives. Whether it’s securing asylum for a family fleeing persecution or helping someone avoid deportation, each success represents a life-changing moment for the people we serve. Knowing that my efforts contribute to someone’s ability to live safely, reunite with loved ones, or build a better future is deeply fulfilling.

That said, immigration law can be incredibly challenging. The stakes are high, and not every case has the outcome we hope for. What keeps me motivated during difficult times is the resilience and courage of my clients. Many of them have faced unimaginable adversity—whether it’s fleeing violence, enduring detention, or being separated from their families—and yet they persevere. Their strength reminds me why this work is so important.

I also find motivation in the collective efforts of my colleagues and the broader immigrant rights community. Knowing that we’re all working toward the same goal - justice for those who need it most - gives me a sense of purpose even on the toughest days. At the end of the day, every small victory is a step toward a more equitable and compassionate system.

• Bianca Santos approaches immigration law with empathy and dedication, fighting for her clients’ dignity and hope.
• She combines expert legal representation with community education to empower clients navigating the immigration system.
• The resilience of her clients and the support of the immigrant rights community inspire her commitment to justice.