We provide training & mentoring
​​​​​​​to our volunteer attorneys

Upcoming training sessions - training bank 

Parole for ICE Detainees

PAIR's Irene C. Freidel will share about the parole process and requirements for obtaining the release of a client by ICE. Registration is closed for AILA members only. If you are an AILA member, please contact mgleason@pairproject.org.

WHEN:
Tuesday, May 21, 2024
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM  

WHERE:
American Immigration Lawyers Association - New England
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Bars to Asylum

With southern border apprehensions on the rise and asylum backlogs reaching crisis proportions at both EOIR and USCIS, the previous and current administrations have increasingly sought to curtail access to asylum, both procedurally and substantively. PAIR's Ilana Greenstein and Violeta Haralampieva wil discuss some of the most common statutory and regulatory bars to asylum, with a focus on those most relevant to current migration trends. They will discuss the legal exceptions to these bars, which offer crucial pathways to winning asylum despite the odds. Registration is closed for AILA members only. If you are an AILA member, please contact mgleason@pairproject.org.

WHEN:
Wednesday, April 24, 2024
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM  

WHERE:
American Immigration Lawyers Association - New England
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Online Asylum Filing 

PAIR’s Tara Rubenstein will give a walk through the process of completing and filing an asylum application And supplementary materials online, including tips and tricks for successful online filing. Registration is closed for AILA members only. If you are an AILA member, please contact mgleason@pairproject.org.

WHEN:
Tuesday, April 9, 2024
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM  

WHERE:
American Immigration Lawyers Association - New England
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Online Asylum Filing 

PAIR's Julia Ciachurski will share more information about how to get involved in PAIR's Know Your Rights (KYR) initiative. Since 2016, PAIR has reached more than 19,500 community members through its KYR initiative by collaborating with shelters, churches, schools, and community centers across Massachusetts. Each presentation is about one hour and covers a brief overview of the immigration system, recent immigration updates, important legal resources, and your rights when encountering immigration officials. Registration is closed for AILA members only. If you are an AILA member, please contact mgleason@pairproject.org.

WHEN:
Wednesday, April 3, 2024
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM  

WHERE:
American Immigration Lawyers Association - New England
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Detention 101: Working with Detained Survivors of Torture

PAIR’s Irene C. Freidel will present on PAIR’s work to represent detained asylum seekers who recently arrived in the U.S. at bond hearings in Immigration Court. As ICE continues its practice of detaining asylum seekers, PAIR has witnessed the resurgence of clients transferred to New England detention centers from the Southern and Northern borders. PAIR has an enormous impact by helping asylum seekers secure release from detention and obtain the ability to pursue protection in the U.S. from outside of a jail cell. 

WHEN:
Wednesday, May 8, 2024
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM  

WHERE:
Boston Medical Center
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Role of Physician Evaluations in Immigration Adjudications

PAIR's Elizabeth Badger will speak about the complex partnership that legal counsel and medical professionals forge in supporting asylum seekers facing deportation. The training will cover immigration court and asylum office practice, the role that medical experts play in an asylum case, the power of the forensic or psychological evaluation, and what medical professionals can expect when called upon to provide expert testimony in immigration court. The goal of the session is to foster a partnership where the medical and legal community works together to help clients/patients win asylum.

WHEN:
Wednesday, April 17, 2024
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM  

WHERE:
Boston Medical Center
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Barriers to Success in Our Asylum System

PAIR’s Ilana Greenstein will share the many significant challenges that asylum seekers face in attempting to access the protection and safety that they are entitled to under domestic and internal law, including: the lack of a right to free counsel, language access, burden of proof, and severe case backlogs at the immigration court and asylum office. Because of the increasing legal and procedural complexities of the immigration system, one case can take 7-8 years to complete, leaving asylum seekers in limbo and separated from family. The backlog and lack of meaningful access to present one’s case compounds the struggles of immigrants without status trying to navigate the system. 

WHEN:
Wednesday, March 20, 2024
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM  

WHERE:
Boston Medical Center
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Afghan Refugee Project and Working with Afghan Asylum Seekers

PAIR’s Tara Rubenstein will speak about the Afghan Refugee Project and the immigration legal needs of Afghans impacted by combat. She will discuss current issues in Afghan/OAW asylum cases, as well as the imporatance of trauma-informed/culturally-responsive lawyering in her work. 

WHEN:
Friday, March 15, 2024
3:00 PM - 4:00 PM  

WHERE:
Boston Medical Center
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Know Your Rights (KYR) Training

PAIR is looking for volunteer attorneys to assist with our Know Your Rights (KYR) initiative. Since 2016, PAIR has reached more than 19,500 community members through its KYR initiative by collaborating with shelters, churches, schools, and community centers across Massachusetts. Each presentation is about one hour and covers a brief overview of the immigration system, recent immigration updates, important legal resources, and your rights when encountering immigration officials. Join PAIR's Julia Ciachurski as she shares more information about how you can get involved. Register here

WHEN:
Wednesday, February 14, 2024
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM  

WHERE:
PAIR Project
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Navigating Unprecedented Challenges: Addressing the Influx of Asylum Seekers and Migrants in Massachusetts

PAIR's Sarah Allar will join an essential conversation addressing the unprecedented surge of asylum seekers and migrants arriving to Massachusetts. This surge has triggered sociopolitical and financial hurdles for cities like NYC, Chicago, and Boston, further complicated by the economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic. The conversation will delve deeply into the multifaceted responses of the state, municipalities, legal, and social service entities and emphasize the critical need for comprehensive solutions to address this pressing issue. Register here.

WHEN:
Monday, January 8, 2024
12:00 PM - 2:00 PM  

WHERE:
Boston Bar Association
Boston, MA (Zoom)

International Migrant Day

PAIR's Rhonda Tietjen will share information about PAIR's services with the staff and patient community at Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program (BHCHP)'s International Migrant Day event.

WHEN:
Monday, December 18, 2023
12:00 PM - 2:00 PM  

WHERE:
Boston Health Care for the Homeless
Program
Boston, MA

Careers in Immigration Law

PAIR's Tara Rubenstein will speak to students at Boston College Law about her work with asylum seekers and detained immigrants at PAIR, and what it's like pursuing a career in immigration law. 

WHEN:
Tuesday, November 21, 2023
2:45 PM - 3:45 PM  

WHERE:
Boston College Law School
Newton, MA (Zoom)

Latham & Watkins Pro Bono Fair

PAIR's Anita P. Sharma will represent PAIR at an annual Pro Bono Fair hosted by Latham & Watkins LLP and engage with attorneys interested in pro bono opportunities with the organization.

WHEN:
Wednesday, November 15, 2023
4:00 PM - 5:30 PM  

WHERE:
Latham & Watkins LLP
Boston, MA

Asylum 101: Part Two

PAIR's Anita P. Sharma and Ilana Greenstein will conduct a two-part pro bono training on asylum law, policy, and practice. The sessions will cover an overview of asylum law, how to work with asylum-seeking clients, interviewing survivors of violence, asylum case preparation and packaging, and the basics of presenting a case before the Asylum Office and Immigration Court. This is part two of the two-part training. Register here.

WHEN:
Wednesday, November 15, 2023
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM  

WHERE:
PAIR Project
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Representing Immigrants Detained by ICE

Join PAIR's Irene C. Freidel as she discusses the nuts and bolts of providing legal services to immigrants detained by ICE in New England in this AILA brown bag event. She will provide an overview of the detention landscape and discuss custody and other detention-specific avenues for relief. Registration is closed for AILA members only.

WHEN:
Monday, November 13, 2023
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM  

WHERE:
American Immigration Lawyers Association - New England
Boston, MA (Zoom)

The Social Innovator Fund Info Session

At a virtual event hosted by the Social Innovation Forum (SIF) team to share about their new Social Innovator Fund, PAIR's Anita P. Sharma, will speak about her work in amplifying local social change at PAIR and her experience as a 2018 Social Innovator. There will be an opportunity to learn more about SIF and ways to get involved with the Fund. 

WHEN:
Thursday, November 9, 2023
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM  

WHERE:
Social Innovation Forum
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Asylum 101: Part One

PAIR's Anita P. Sharma and Ilana Greenstein will conduct a two-part pro bono training on asylum law, policy, and practice. The sessions will cover an overview of asylum law, how to work with asylum-seeking clients, interviewing survivors of violence, asylum case preparation and packaging, and the basics of presenting a case before the Asylum Office and Immigration Court. This is part one of the two-part training. Register here.

WHEN:
Wednesday, November 8, 2023
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM  

WHERE:
PAIR Project
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Current Issues in Afghan/OAW Asylum Cases

PAIR’s Tara Rubenstein will discuss current issues in Afghan/OAW asylum cases. This will include commonly seen grounds for asylum, an overview of bars to asylum that Afghans may encounter, and Afghan-specific exceptions to these bars. Tara will also discuss other forms of relief currently available to Afghans including re-parole/parole extension and the recent Afghan TPS Temporary Protected Status (TPS) extension and re-designation. Register here.

WHEN:
Wednesday, October 18, 2023
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM  

WHERE:
PAIR Project
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Annual Pro Bono Fair at Suffolk University Law School

This event, sponsored by Suffolk University Law School and the Boston Bar Association, will present legal services and other public interest and government organizations with an opportunity to connect with talented law students and attorneys about pro bono opportunities. The fair is held as part of the National Pro Bono Celebration sponsored by the American Bar Association's Standing Committee on Pro Bono and Public Service. PAIR's Daniela Hargus and Rhonda Tietjen will represent PAIR at the event and engage with students interested in pro bono opportunities with the organization.

WHEN:
Wednesday, October 18, 2023
4:30 PM - 6:00 PM  

WHERE:
Suffolk University Law School
Boston, MA

Chasing the American Dream: The Journey from Home to the United States

Among a panel discussion with Foley Hoag associates, PAIR's Annery Miranda, in honor of Hispanic Heritage month, will paint a picture of the journey from Latin America to the United States and the hurdles asylum seekers face once they arrive. She will also speak about what it means to practice as a Latina attorney.

WHEN:
Thursday, October 12, 2023
12:00 PM - 1:30 PM  

WHERE:
Foley Hoag LLP
Boston, MA (Zoom)

The Basics of Temporary Protected Status (TPS)

Over the past few months, important developments have been announced that will impact hundreds of thousands of people from the various countries designated for Temporary Protected Status (TPS). These developments include re-designation for many countries, making a large number of people newly eligible for this important benefit, and the opening of re-registration periods for several countries that have been subject to years of litigation. PAIR's Sarah Allar will provide an overview of TPS, including how countries are chosen for TPS designation, eligibility requirements, and bars to TPS. The training will also review the countries currently designated for TPS and identify recent developments for each country. Register here.

WHEN:
Wednesday, October 11, 2023
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM  

WHERE:
PAIR Project
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Best Practices for Completing a "Skeletal" Asylum Application (I-589)

Filing a "skeletal" asylum application is an important first step in both affirmative and defensive asylum cases. PAIR's Violeta Haralampieva will be facilitating a training on the technical aspects of preparing and filing Form I-589 (Application for Asylum). She will share best practices for completing the biographical sections and substantive questions on the form, as well as tips for filing with both USCIS in affirmative cases and EOIR in defensive cases. Register here.

WHEN:
Wednesday, October 4, 2023
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM  

WHERE:
PAIR Project
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Role of Physician Evaluations in Asylum Adjudications

PAIR’s Elizabeth Badger will speak to a cohort of physicians and residents with the Cambridge Health Alliance about the role of medical providers in asylum adjudications.

WHEN:
Friday, September 1, 2023
3:00 PM - 4:00 PM  

WHERE:
Cambrige Health Alliance
Cambridge, MA (Zoom)

Afghan Aylum Cases

PAIR's Tara Rubenstein will have a question and answer session on representing Afghans evacuees in affirmative asylum cases with students of the Northeastern University School of Law's Immigrant Justice Clinic.

WHEN:
Thursday, July 13, 2023
9:30 AM - 10:30 AM  

WHERE:
Northeastern University School of Law
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Credible Fear Interview (CFI) Training

Join PAIR's Irene Freidel as she covers how to prepare your client for a credible fear interview (CFI), as well as for an Immigration Judge (IJ) review of a negative credible fear result. In addition, she will discuss how to request a new interview if the IJ affirms a negative finding, and we will touch upon initial threshold screenings under the Safe Third Country Agreement between the United States and Canada. Throughout the training, participants will consider the regulatory and procedural requirements that underpin each stage of the CFI process. Register here.

WHEN:
Wednesday, July 12, 2023
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM  

WHERE:
PAIR Project
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Conducting Intakes in Detention

PAIR's Annery Miranda will present on how to conduct "Know Your Rights" presentations and intakes in the detention context to students of the Northeastern Univeresity School of Law's Immigrant Justice Clinic.

WHEN:
Tuesday, July 11, 2023
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM  

WHERE:
Northeastern University School of Law
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Medical-Legal Partnership

PAIR’s Anita P. Sharma will speak about the complex partnership that legal counsel and medical professionals forge in supporting asylum seekers facing deportation. The training will cover immigration court and asylum office practice, the role that medical experts play in an asylum case, the power of the forensic or psychological evaluation, and what medical professionals can expect when called upon to provide expert testimony in immigration court. The goal of the session is to foster a partnership where the medical and legal community works together to help clients/patients win asylum.

WHEN:
Wednesday, June 21, 2023
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM  

WHERE:
Boston Medical Center
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Beyond Services for Afghan Survivors Impacted by Combat

Join PAIR's Tara Rubenstein as she partners with the Metta Health Center to speak about the Afghan Refugee Project and the immigration legal needs of Afghans impacted by combat at the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH)'s World Refugee Day learning event. The presentation is hosted by the Center and the MDPH Divison of Global Populations and Infectious Disease Prevention (Refugee and Immigrant Health Programs).

WHEN:
Wednesday, June 21, 2023
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM  

WHERE:
MA Department of Public Health
Boston, MA (Zoom)

What It's Really Like in Legal Services

Join a panel of legal services and nonprofit practitioners, including PAIR's Annery Miranda, as they discuss their various roles, their day-to-day realities, the challenges they've faced, as well as tips and advice that helped them excel in this field. Stay for an opportunity to casually network with food and refreshments. Register here.

WHEN:
Wednesday, June 14, 2023
4:00 PM - 6:00 PM  

WHERE:
Boston Bar Association
Boston, MA

Immigration Detention: Intake, Case Screening, and Pro Bono Opportunities

PAIR’s Irene Freidel will provide an overview of how to conduct successful intake and case screening in detention, and share about different pro bono opportunities at PAIR with associates at Ropes & Gray. 

WHEN:
Thursday, June 8, 2023
3:30 PM - 4:30 PM  

WHERE:
Ropes & Gray LLP
Boston, MA

Systemic Barriers that Asylum Seekers Face in the Immigration System

PAIR’s Anita P. Sharma will share the many significant challenges that asylum seekers face in attempting to access the protection and safety that they are entitled to under domestic and internal law, including: the lack of a right to free counsel, language access, burden of proof, and severe case backlogs at the immigration court and asylum office. Because of the increasing legal and procedural complexities of the immigration system, one case can take 6-8 years to complete, leaving asylum seekers in limbo and separated from family. The backlog and lack of meaningful access to present one’s case compounds the struggles of immigrants without status trying to navigate the system. 

WHEN:
Wednesday, May 17, 2023
11:00 PM - 12:00 PM  

WHERE:
Boston Medical Center
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Legal Summit Fireside Chat

PAIR’s Irene Freidel will participate in a panel discussion with two asylees who were represented by PAIR and MassMutual. The purpose is to share experiences with MassMutual’s legal staff and pro bono opportunities within the firm.

WHEN:
Thursday, April 27, 2023
7:00 PM - 8:00 PM  

WHERE:
Fenway Park
Boston, MA

Representing Afghan Asylum Seekers

Join PAIR's Elena Noureddine and Tara Rubenstein on representing Afghan asylum seekers. The session will cover the basics of asylum law and process, highlighting the process for Afghan Operation Allies Welcome (OAW) cases. The session will also cover prevalent issue areas emerging in OAW cases, including the terror/persecutor bars, and share recent updates and trends from the Asylum Office. Register here.

WHEN:
Wednesday, April 26, 2023
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM  

WHERE:
American Immigration Lawyers Association - New England
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Detention 101

PAIR’s Elena Noureddine will present on PAIR’s work to represent detained asylum seekers who recently arrived in the U.S. at bond hearings in Immigration Court. As ICE continues its practice of detaining asylum seekers, PAIR has witnessed the resurgence of clients transferred to New England detention centers from the Southern border. PAIR has an enormous impact by helping asylum seekers secure release from detention and obtain the ability to pursue protection in the U.S. from outside of a jail cell. 

WHEN:
Wednesday, April 19, 2023
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM  

WHERE:
Boston Medical Center
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Asylum 101

PAIR’s Anita P. Sharma will cover the basics of asylum law: how attorneys build the theory of an asylum case, packaging an asylum case, working with traumatized clients, gathering supporting documents, tips for practicing at the Boston asylum office and immigration court, and post asylum grant benefits. The overview will give medical providers a sense of what patients face in trying to navigate the immigration system.  

WHEN:
Friday, April 14, 2023
3:00 PM - 4:00 PM  

WHERE:
Boston Medical Center
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Executive Director Circle: ED Sabbaticals

Join PAIR’s Anita P. Sharma and other Executive Directors for lunch and conversation about Executive Director Sabbaticals and the need for executive rest, reflection, and rejuvenation. The Executive Directors in SIF’s network who have recently taken sabbaticals will share about their experience preparing for, taking leave, and returning from sabbaticals. All are welcome to join whether or not you are actively planning a sabbatical and to bring a Board Member or someone from your leadership team. Register here.

WHEN:
Thursday, April 6, 2023
12:00 PM - 1:30 PM  

WHERE:
Social Innovation Forum
Boston, MA

Use Your Legal Skills for Good – Pro Bono Opportunities Here and Now

Join PAIR’s Anita P. Sharma as she speaks with other nonprofit leaders about pro bono opportunities. Learn about the acute need for lawyers to provide pro bono services to low-income members of the Boston community. Panelists will discuss their participation in innovative remote and in-person pro bono projects. You will leave this session with concrete ways to start helping! Register here.

WHEN:
Monday, March 27, 2023
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM  

WHERE:
Boston Bar Association
Boston, MA (Zoom)

BBA Public Interest Leadership Program (PILP): Landscape of Legal Services

Join PAIR’s Anita P. Sharma, BBA PILP class of 2008, as she participates in an in-person panel discussion with other PILP alumni on emerging needs in legal service practice. The panelist will give an overview of how legal aid attorneys are ensuring access to counsel, the challenges that indigent clients face in various systems (including immigration, family, and education), highlight the systemic barriers, including the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, and discuss how legal services is rising to meet community needs and serve clients.

WHEN:
Thursday, March 23, 2023
5:00 PM - 6:30 PM  

WHERE:
Boston Bar Association
Boston, MA

In House Counsel Pro Bono Programs: How to Start, Grow, and Drive Participation

Join PAIR's Anita P. Sharma as she shares her experience in building PAIR’s pro bono partnership with in-house legal departments. This in-person program is for those interested in pro bono work as an in-house lawyer, whether they have a pro bono program at their organization, want to start one, or just want to do pro bono work on their own. This program will cover how to start, grow, and drive participation in pro bono programs. Information about resources, identifying your target demographic, and engaging clients will be shared by experienced experts. For more information, register here.

WHEN:
Wednesday, March 22, 2023
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM  

WHERE:
Boston Bar Association
Boston, MA

Adjustment of Status for Asylees

An asylee is eligible to adjust status to legal permanent residence after being continuously present in the U.S. for at least one year after being granted asylum. PAIR's Elizabeth Badger will go over eligibility for adjustment of status (including evidence of continuous presence), relevant documents that must be filed with USCIS, and more. Register here

WHEN:
Thursday, March 16, 2023
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM  

WHERE:
PAIR Project
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Impact of Chronic & Toxic Stress in Legal Services: Befriending and Tending to Your Central Nervous System, Part 2

In a session hosted by PAIR's Anita Sharma and Casa Myrna's Nicole Merida, expert medical professionals Kathleen Flinton, MAR, MSW, LICSW, and Anna Mancuso, MSW, LICSW will build off the Part 1 training by leading the discussion of chronic and toxic stress in legal services and how it may show up in our professional world. The second part of the training, based on the information that Kathleen and Anna have shared, will help attendees create a toolkit to build resilience, tend to one’s biology, self-care, and adopt skills for central nervous system regulation/stress management so we can thrive in our work. Register here

WHEN:
Tuesday, March 14, 2023
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM  

WHERE:
Boston Bar Association
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Immigration and the Medical Field

PAIR's Gabriella Chavez, Irene Freidel and Elizabeth Badger will speak about the work that PAIR does, and challenges that immigrants, detained immigrants, and undocumented community members face when encountering the medical field to Boston University medical students. 

WHEN:
Wednesday, March 8, 2023
9:30 AM - 10:30 AM  

WHERE:
Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Impact of Chronic & Toxic Stress in Legal Services: Understanding the Basics of Your Central Nervous System to Thrive at Work, Part 1

In a session hosted by PAIR's Anita Sharma and Casa Myrna's Nicole Merida, expert medical professionals Kathleen Flinton, MAR, MSW, LICSW, and Anna Mancuso, MSW, LICSW will provide a basic understanding of stress and its impact on the body’s central nervous system and brain, as well as explain the effects of chronic and toxic stress and how it may show up in our professional world and legal services. The first part of the training will be a comprehensive overview and introducing cutting-edge theories in the field of neuroscience about stress and trauma, something that many legal service providers may bring and carry in their vital work to serve others. Register here

WHEN:
Tuesday, March 7, 2023
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM  

WHERE:
Boston Bar Association
Boston, MA (Zoom)

An Overview of Appealing before the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA)

PAIR's Elena Noureddine will provide an overview of appealing before the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA), including different standards of review. The importance of preserving the client's record for appeal as well as brief-writing and motion-filing tips will also be given. Register here.

WHEN:
Wednesday, February 22, 2023
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM  

WHERE:
PAIR Project
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Best Practices for Completing a "Skeletal" Asylum Application/I-589

PAIR's Violeta Haralampieva will facilitate a training on the technical aspects of preparing and filing Form I-589 (Application for Asylum). She will share best practices for completing the biographical sections and substantive questions on the form, as well as tips for filing with both USCIS in affirmative cases and EOIR in defensive cases. The training will also cover new form EOIR-61, which now requires attorneys to enter a limited appearance to provide document assistance to pro se individuals. Register here.

WHEN:
Wednesday, February 15, 2023
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM  

WHERE:
PAIR Project
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Credibility Determinations and Corroboration

PAIR's Elena Noureddine will go over the essentials of credibility determinations and corroboration, including: the importance of credibility in an applicant's/respondent's testimony, factors on which a credibility determination may be based and not based, and how credibility issues may arise during an asylum interview or in removal proceedings. Register here.

WHEN:
Wednesday, February 8, 2023
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM  

WHERE:
PAIR Project
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Understanding the Parole Program for Haitians, Cubans, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans

PAIR's Sarah Allar will lead a discussion of the expanded parole process for Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans for the New England Chapter of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA-NE). She will speak about the financial requirements for supporters, the documentary requirements for beneficiaries, current trends in adjudication, and best practices for application submission.

WHEN:
Tuesday, January 24, 2023
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM  

WHERE:
American Immigration Lawyers Association - New England
Boston, MA (Zoom)

The New Parole Processes for Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans and Venezuelans

PAIR's Sarah Allar will lead a webinar for The City of Boston Mayor's Office for Immigrant Advancement (MOIA) to assist those who are hoping to support individuals from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela through the newly announced expanded parole program. She will speak about the requirements for supporters and beneficiaries, current trends in adjudication, and immigration options for individuals who enter on this parole program. Register here.

WHEN:
Monday, January 23, 2023
6:00 PM - 7:30 PM  

WHERE:
Mayor's Office for Immigrant Advancement
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Qualifying for Protection under the Convention Against Torture (CAT)

PAIR's Irene Freidel will provide background on the Convention Against Torture (CAT) and address new and relevant case law impacting CAT claims. The presentation will also explain the eligibility criteria and discuss strategies for successfully representing noncitizens seeking CAT protection in the Boston Immigration Court. Please register here.

WHEN:
Wednesday, December 7, 2022
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM  

WHERE:
PAIR Project
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Access to Justice Fellows Panel

PAIR's Irene Freidel will discuss her work as an attorney at PAIR alongside Fellows from the classes of 2018-2021 at a gathering of the Access to Justice Program of the Lawyer's Clearinghouse.

WHEN:
Tuesday, December 6, 2022
12:00 PM - 2:00 PM  

WHERE:
Mintz Levin
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Overview of Withholding of Removal

PAIR's Elena Noureddine will focus on the ins and outs of helping clients seek protection in the form of Withholding of Removal, both as a relief option sought together with asylum—or—when seeking asylum is not an option. This training will go over 1) some circumstances in which a client's best option would be a grant of WoR, 2) The standard of proof for proving your legal case, 3) Basic eligibility requirements, 4) Bars to seeking WoR, and 5) Tips on how to prepare the strongest claim for protection. Register here

WHEN:
Wednesday, November 30, 2022
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM  

WHERE:
PAIR Project
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Overview of Immigration Relief Options

Join PAIR's Elena Noureddine as she gives an overview of some frequently encountered immigration relief options for clients we've worked with. Participants will be trained in the basic eligibility requirements of these options, bars to seeking relief, and factors to consider before and as you apply. The training is meant to provide a foundation that participants can use in advising and screening clients to identify potential eligibility, and to understand the processes and benefits of each form of relief. Register here.

WHEN:
Wednesday, November 16, 2022
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM  

WHERE:
PAIR Project
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Race and Citizenship in a Contested Region: Whiteness, Brown-ness and the Border

PAIR's Gabriella Chavez will be a guest speaker for the Harvard College course: The Border: Race, Politics and Health in Modern Mexico. She will discuss issues of health, mental health, the border and working with undocumented folks in the Massachusetts area; she will also share about her experience working in legal services and entering the field as a first-generation, BIPOC person.

WHEN:
Tuesday, November 15, 2022
10:30 AM - 11:45 AM  

WHERE:
Harvard College
Cambridge, MA

Immigration Court and Resources Overview for Newly Arrived Families

PAIR's Gabriella Chavez and KIND's Karen Mejia will discuss basic information about supporting newly arrived families in understanding immigration court processes and accessing social services and immigration legal services resources with community health workers at EBNHC .

WHEN:
Tuesday, November 15, 2022
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM  

WHERE:
East Boston Neighborhood Health Center
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Working with Survivors of Trauma & Navigating Other Sensitive Issues

PAIR's Gabriella Chavez will be offering a dynamic and informative session to MassMutual attorneys, covering the particular issues associated with representing clients who are survivors of trauma, as well as navigating cultural differences and language barriers.

WHEN:
Thursday, October 27, 2022
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM  

WHERE:
MassMutual
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Legal Updates

PAIR's Elizabeth Badger will be offering an informative orientation to MGH Asylum Clinic evaluators around legal updates in the asylum and immigration worlds.

WHEN:
Thursday, October 26, 2022
12:00 PM - 12:30 PM  

WHERE:
MGH Asylum Clinic
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Individual Hearing: Cross Examination and Objections

Join PAIR's Elena Noureddine as she continues to unpack the Individual Hearing by going over effective cross-examination strategies—with an eye towards always preserving the overall record. In Immigration Court, the Federal Rules of Evidence do not strictly apply, but practitioners must familiarize themselves with these rules as well as the evidentiary standards that apply in immigration court proceedings. Tips on how to make and respond to objections will also be covered in order to protect clients' due process rights. Register here

WHEN:
Wednesday, October 26, 2022
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM  

WHERE:
PAIR Project
Boston, MA (Zoom)

A Conversation with Non-Profit Managers

PAIR's Yanzie Chow will join a panel of non-profit managers to discuss how they got involved in their work, how they measure effectiveness, and the rewards and challenges of working at a non-profit. Rivers Givers student leaders will have a chance to ask questions to understand the inner workings of non-profits, the nonprofit world and the passion and commitment of the people in organizations that make change happen. 

WHEN:
Monday, October 25, 2022
6:00 PM - 7:00 PM  

WHERE:
Rivers Givers of The Rivers School
Weston, MA (Zoom)

Suffolk University/BBA Pro Bono Fair

PAIR will be a part of Pro Bono Month Celebrations, including a community pro bono fair. This event will present legal services and other public interest and government organizations with the opportunity to connect with talented law students, recent graduates, and experienced attorneys about pro bono opportunities. PAIR’s Anita Sharma and Daniela Hargus will discuss the organization’s mission, programs, and opportunities for engagement. Register here.

WHEN:
Monday, October 25, 2022
4:30 PM - 6:00 PM  

WHERE:
Suffolk University/Boston Bar Association
Boston, MA

Medical-Legal Partnerships: Working With Immigrants and Asylum Seekers

PAIR’s Anita Sharma will speak to a cohort of medical and graduate nursing students about working with asylum seekers as part of the University of Massachusetts Medical School (UMMS) Population Health Clerkship on Refugee and Asylum Seeker Health.

WHEN:
Monday, October 24, 2022
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM  

WHERE:
University of MA Medical School
Worcester, MA (Zoom)

Individual Hearing: Evidence and Direct Testimony

Join PAIR's Marianne Staniunas as she demystifies the process of submitting evidence in Immigration Court and defending it against challenges, while also challenging inappropriate submissions by the government. Strategies will be discussed for preparing clients for direct testimony, as well as the thinking-on-our-feet and adjusting that happens when actually conducting a direct examination. Please bring all of your questions and the scenarios that challenge and maybe scare you a little bit—we hope for this to be a lively conversation! Register here

WHEN:
Wednesday, October 19, 2022
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM  

WHERE:
PAIR Project
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Representing Asylum Seekers

Join PAIR and MLCE for a 4-hour pro bono training on asylum law, policy, and practice. PAIR’s Executive Director Anita P. Sharma will chair the panel and present alongside distinguished faculty members: Ilana Greenstein, David McHaffey, Dr. Sondra Crosby, and Meghann Boyle, Director of the Boston Asylum Office. Register here.

WHEN:
Wednesday, October 12, 2022
1:00 PM - 5:00 PM  

WHERE:
MCLE
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Before the Individual Hearing: Master Calendar Hearings & Preparing Your Supplemental Submission/Call-Up

Join PAIR's Julia Ciachurski as she focuses on the relevant procedures and requirements in Immigration Court leading up to a client’s Individual Hearing. This training seeks to provide pro bono attorneys the legal framework and tips on how to best represent their clients prior to, and in preparation of, their final hearing date, including how to conference with opposing counsel, which preliminary motions may be useful and how to submit them, what evidence to gather and eventually submit, and what to include in a call-up submission and how to do so. Pro bono attorneys will be given the tools to feel comfortable representing their clients throughout the entirety of their court proceedings. Register here

WHEN:
Wednesday, October 12, 2022
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM  

WHERE:
PAIR Project
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Practicing & Procedure in Immigration Court

Join PAIR's Irene Freidel as she provides practical information about the Immigration Court. You will learn the nuts and bolts about how and where to appear at court hearings, what to expect at different stages of the case, how to file documents, general court procedures, and other useful tips from practitioners. Register here

WHEN:
Wednesday, October 5, 2022
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM  

WHERE:
PAIR Project
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Know Your Rights

PAIR's Elizabeth Badger and Gabriella Chavez will share guidance to help Roca participants understand the immigration process and how to respond when faced with law enforcement interactions.

WHEN:
Tuesday, October 4, 2022
4:30 PM - 5:30 PM  

WHERE:
Roca
Chelsea, MA (Zoom)

Best Practices for Completing a "Skeletal" Asylum Application/I-589

Filing a "skeletal" asylum application is an important first step in both affirmative and defensive asylum cases. PAIR's Violeta Haralampieva will be facilitating a training on the technical aspects of preparing and filing Form I-589 (Application for Asylum). She will share best practices for completing the biographical sections and substantive questions on the form, as well as tips for filing with both USCIS in affirmative cases and EOIR in defensive cases. Register here

WHEN:
Wednesday, September 28, 2022
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM  

WHERE:
PAIR Project
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Bond Training: Advanced Issues and Emerging Topics

PAIR's Irene Freidel will provide an up-to-date legal framework and tips on how to best represent detained clients seeking release. This training will anchor participants in the basic requirements for seeking bond and bond eligibility but will focus on more advanced issues and emerging topics in the fast-changing area of immigration detention. Pro bono attorneys will be given the tools to feel comfortable advocating for their detained clients in Immigration Court. Register here

WHEN:
Wednesday, September 21, 2022
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM  

WHERE:
PAIR Project
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Bond Training: Responding to ICE Transfers of Detained Asylum Seekers to New England 

Join PAIR's Julia Ciachurski as she discusses how to represent detained asylum seekers who recently arrived in the U.S. at bond hearings in Immigration Court. As ICE continues its practice of detaining asylum seekers, PAIR has witnessed the resurgence of clients transferred to New England detention centers from the Southern border. Thus, PAIR frequently has a number of pro bono bond cases, many with strong fear-based claims. Pro bono attorneys can make an enormous impact by helping asylum seekers secure release from detention and obtain the ability to pursue protection in the U.S. from outside of a jail cell. Register here.

WHEN:
Thursday, September 15, 2022
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM  

WHERE:
PAIR Project
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Asylum Medicine Course

Forensic medical evaluation provides crucial evidence of persecution/harm in individuals seeking immigration relief. PAIR's Elizabeth Badger will present in a course for medical residents at Cambridge Health Alliance about the role of forensic evaluations in asylum adjudications.

WHEN:
Friday, August 26, 2022
3:00 PM - 4:30 PM  

WHERE:
Cambridge Health Alliance
Cambridge, MA (Zoom)

Practicing before the Asylum Office

In the "affirmative" posture, after filing a client's asylum application and supplemental documents, a pro bono attorney will represent the client at their interview before an Asylum Officer. As part of the Asylum Cohort's Summer 2022 Lunch & Learn Series, PAIR's Marianne Staniunas will cover the basics in practicing before the Asylum Office, recent operational changes, and offer some best practices. This training is for both new and seasoned practitioners, with time for questions and further discussion. Register here.

WHEN:
Wednesday, July 20, 2022
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM  

WHERE:
PAIR Project
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Introduction to Reading Common Immigration Documents

As part of the Asylum Cohort's Summer 2022 Lunch & Learn Series, PAIR's Elizabeth Badger will review common immigration records that your client might bring to you throughout the course of a case, including: Notices to Appear, Receipt Notices, Immigration & Customs Enforcement documents, and Employment Authorization Documents. Register here.

WHEN:
Wednesday, July 13, 2022
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM  

WHERE:
PAIR Project
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Tips on Drafting a Client Affidavit

Every application for asylum should include a declaration, or narrative from the client, detailing their experiences in their country of origin, reasons for fleeing, and reasons that they fear returning. This document is the single most important component of the written asylum application because it allows the client to tell their story completely and, as much as possible, in their own words. As part of the Asylum Cohort's Summer 2022 Lunch & Learn Series, PAIR's Violeta Haralampieva will cover best practices for drafting such an affidavit. Register here.

WHEN:
Wednesday, July 6, 2022
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM  

WHERE:
PAIR Project
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Starting a Case/Records Searches (FOIA)

If an asylum client was referred to Immigration Court from the Asylum Office, was subject to a Credible Fear determination upon entry to the U.S., or has any time applied for any immigration benefits or given statements to immigration officials—pro bono attorneys can request a copy of the client’s government immigration file through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). Without the FOIA request, pro bono attorneys may not know about these documents until the Asylum Officer or Trial Attorney uses them for impeachment purposes during the asylum interview or merits hearing. As part of the Asylum Cohort's Summer 2022 Lunch & Learn Series, PAIR's Irene Freidel will go over how to make a FOIA request. Register here

WHEN:
Wednesday, June 29, 2022
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM  

WHERE:
PAIR Project
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Working with Survivors of Trauma

Trauma-informed advocacy is critical when working with survivors. In addition to experiencing trauma that led to fleeing one's own home country, the immigration/legal system in the U.S. is often re-traumatizing. As part of the Asylum Cohort's Summer 2022 Lunch & Learn Series, PAIR's Gabriella Chavez will go over how to establish a rapport with your clients in a trauma-informed manner, as well as cultural considerations you should consider when working with asylum seekers and others seeking immigration relief. Register here.

WHEN:
Wednesday, June 22, 2022
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM  

WHERE:
PAIR Project
Boston, MA (Zoom)

U-Visa Training

The U-Visa applies to immigrants who are the victims of certain serious crimes such as domestic violence and trafficking and who have cooperated with authorities in the prosecution of the perpetrator. An immigrant granted U-Visa relief will subsequently be given legal status to reside and work in the U.S., and can eventually apply for a green card. As part of the Asylum Cohort's Summer 2022 Lunch & Learn Series, PAIR's Elizabeth Badger will go over some of the basics of the U-Visa as a form of relief. Register here.

WHEN:
Wednesday, June 15, 2022
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM  

WHERE:
PAIR Project
Boston, MA (Zoom)

How to Put Together a Successful Country Conditions Packet and Work with an Expert

To win asylum, the client must demonstrate that they have suffered past persecution or have a well-founded future fear of persecution. To help accomplish this, the applicant should submit proof that the types of harm they suffered or fear suffering in the future are documented in their home country, otherwise known as country conditions. As part of the Asylum Cohort's Summer 2022 Lunch & Learn Series, PAIR's Melanie Gleason will go over putting together a successful country conditions packet and working with country conditions experts. Register here

WHEN:
Wednesday, June 8, 2022
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM  

WHERE:
PAIR Project
Boston, MA (Zoom)

The Role of Physican Evaluations in Immigration Adjudications

PAIR's Elizabeth Badger will speak with CHA's physicians, psychologists, social workers, attorneys, and trainees about the role and importance of physician evaluations in immigration adjudications.

WHEN:
Monday, May 16, 2022
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM  

WHERE:
Cambridge Health Alliance
Cambridge, MA (Zoom)

Global Health and Human Rights

PAIR's Seth Purcell will speak with CHA's physicians, psychologists, social workers, attorneys, and trainees about topics and trends in asylum generally with a particular focus on claims based on sexual orientation.

WHEN:
Monday, May 6, 2022
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM  

WHERE:
Cambridge Health Alliance
Cambridge, MA (Zoom)

Updates on Immigration Enforcement and Detention in New England

Join expert panelists, including PAIR's Elena Noureddine, BC Law's Mary Holper and MLRI's Mario Paredes, as they discuss the status of ICE detention facilities in New England, recent decisions from the First Circuit on bond eligibility, ICE enforcement policy and activities in Massachusetts, and administration policies at the border impacting who is detained in New England. Register here.

WHEN:
Tuesday, April 26, 2022
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM  

WHERE:
Boston Bar Association
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Representing Clients at Bond Hearings in Immigration Court

PAIR's Irene Freidel will be giving a training on how to represent detained clients at bond hearings in Immigration Court. A number of asylum seekers continue to be detained at the Wyatt Detention Center, on the Massachusetts/ Rhode Island border. PAIR frequently has a number of pro bono bond cases. The timeframe on a bond case is about 2 weeks after case placement/acceptance, and pro bono attorneys can make an enormous impact on releasing those in detention. Please register here.

WHEN:
Wednesday, April 20, 2022
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM  

WHERE:
PAIR Project
Boston, MA (Zoom)

The Border: Race, Politics and Health in Modern Mexico

PAIR's Gabriella Chavez presented to undergraduates at Harvard University about legal services work in Boston and the impact of COVID-19 and the immigration system on undocumented communities.

WHEN:
Wednesday, April 20, 2022
10:30 AM - 11:45 AM  

WHERE:
Harvard University
Cambridge, MA (Zoom)

Best Practices for Completing a "Skeletal" Asylum Application

Filing a "skeletal" asylum application is an important first step in both affirmative and defensive asylum cases. PAIR's Violeta Haralampieva will be facilitating a training on the technical aspects of preparing and filing Form I-589 (Application for Asylum). She will share best practices for completing the biographical sections and substantive questions on the form, as well as tips for filing with both USCIS in affirmative cases and EOIR in defensive cases. Please register here.

WHEN:
Wednesday, April 13, 2022
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM  

WHERE:
PAIR Project
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Best Practices for Completing an Employment Authorization Application (Work Permit)

A work permit (EAD) enables asylum seekers to be able to support themselves and their families—as well as obtain a social security number for a variety of critical needs. Join PAIR's Sarah Allar as she goes over the importance of an EAD, eligibility, and best practices for preparing and filing. Please register here.

WHEN:
Wednesday, April 6, 2022
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM  

WHERE:
PAIR Project
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Belmont World Film's 20th International Film Series & PAIR present A CHANGE OF HEART

Join PAIR's Irene Freidel as she shares about PAIR's work with asylum seekers from around the world during an online discussion about A CHANGE OF HEART, a film
directed by Jérémie Elkaïm. The film depicts a recent widow who finds herself volunteering at a shelter for refugees. After she befriends and falls in love with an Iranian teacher who fled illegally to Calais, she begins to question the prejudices she is accustomed to encountering, challenging the laws of her country. Get tickets and RSVP for the event here

WHEN:
Monday, March 28, 2022
7:00 PM - 8:00 PM  

WHERE:
Belmont World Film
Belmont, MA (Zoom)

An Overview to Representing Asylum Seekers in the U.S.

Are you curious about a general overview to asylum law in the United States, and what is involved in directly representing an asylum seeker pro bono? Join PAIR's Violeta Haralampieva for a one-hour presentation to learn more of the basics and how you can get more involved through PAIR. Please register here.

WHEN:
Wednesday, March 23, 2022
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM  

WHERE:
PAIR Project
Boston, MA (Zoom)

You Can Make an Impact: Pro Bono Opportunities at PAIR

Join PAIR's Pro Bono Involvement Coordinator Melanie Gleason as she covers different pro bono opportunities at PAIR, how to get involved, and the significant impact you can make. Opportunities include: full representation asylum cases, bond cases, and more. Please register here.

WHEN:
Wednesday, March 9, 2022
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM  

WHERE:
PAIR Project
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Know Your Rights for Community Providers

Join PAIR's Marianne Staniunas and Julia Ciachurski as they share background information about the immigration process. The goal of this presentation is to help community providers understand the immigration court process, inform about recent immigration updates, and provide resources available to the immigrant community in Massachusetts. Register here.

WHEN:
Thursday, March 3, 2022
9:30 AM - 10:30 AM  

WHERE:
PAIR Project
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Supporting Afghan Asylum Seekers

PAIR's Seth Purcell spoke to a class of first year law students at Northeastern University and offered guidance on the asylum and Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) processes as the class works to create resources for Afghan evacuees.

WHEN:
Thursday, February 10, 2022
10:15 AM - 10:45 AM  

WHERE:
Northeastern University School of Law
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Representing Clients at Bond Hearings in Immigration Court

Join PAIR's Irene Freidel, as she gives a training on how to represent detained clients at bond hearings in Immigration Court. PAIR's Melanie Gleason will also share more about the pro bono opportunities that are currently available for attorneys. RSVP here

WHEN:
Wednesday, February 9, 2022
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM  

WHERE:
PAIR Project
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Access to Justice for Immigrant Families

PAIR's Elizabeth Badger and Gabriella Chavez will present about PAIR, its programs and the Access to Justice for Immigrant Families Initiative to The Miriam Fund members. The presentation will cover the impact the initiative has had on immigrant women and girl clients with support from the Fund in the past 3 years. 

WHEN:
Wednesday, February 9, 2022
12:00 PM - 1:15 PM  

WHERE:
The Miriam Fund of CJP
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Exploring the Haitian Migrant Crisis – A Boston Perspective

The recent instability in Haiti brought about by the assassination of President Jovenel Moise in July and an earthquake that killed over 2,000 people and injured 12,000 more in August, contributed to thousands of Haitian people seeking asylum at the U.S. border this fall. Many people arriving at the border faced a chaotic and even violent response to their arrival and were denied the chance to seek asylum. Boston has the third-largest population of Haitian immigrants of all U.S. cities and many more Haitians have migrated here in the wake of these events. Join this expert panel, moderated by PAIR's Irene Freidel, which will provide a local perspective on the repercussions of this crisis and discuss the historical context that led us here, what unfolded at the border, and the legal action being taken in response.

WHEN:
Wednesday, December 15, 2021
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM  

WHERE:
Boston Bar Association
Boston, MA (Zoom)

A Conversation: Journeys from There to Here

Please join PAIR's Board President Susan Cohen, as she discusses her new book, "Journeys From There to Here: Stories of Immigrant Trials, Triumphs and Contributions" with PAIR's Legal Director Elena Noureddine. One of the immigrants featured in the book, Rosemary Nsubuga, will participate in the discussion as well. Register for the webinar here.

WHEN:
Tuesday, December 14, 2021
7:00 PM - 8:00 PM  

WHERE:
Belmont Books
Belmont, MA (Zoom)

Opportunities to Serve as Pro Bono Counsel: An Array of Organizations Explain How Your Appellate Expertise Can Serve Others

Join PAIR's Irene Freidel, along with Amy Anthony of Volunteer Lawyers Project of the Boston Bar Association (VLP) and Melissa Gonzalez of Greater Boston Legal Services, as they discuss opportunities to bring appellate expertise to pro bono matters. This session is part of MCLE's 7th Annual Appellate Practice Conference. Please register for the conference here.

WHEN:
Monday, December 13, 2021
9:55 AM - 10:25 AM  

WHERE:
MCLE New England
Boston, MA 

America's Family Panel

PAIR's Irene Freidel will join a panel of immigration experts and writer and director Anike Tourse in a talkback following a screening of “America’s Family,” which chronicles the stories of five mixed-ethnic, mixed-status family members who are on a journey to reunite after being separated through ICE intervention. The film highlights the struggle that so many individuals and families face as immigrants trying to find their place in a polarized and, at times, explicitly unwelcoming atmosphere. 

WHEN:
Friday, November 19, 2021
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM  

WHERE:
Mosesian Center for the Arts
Watertown, MA 

Special Considerations when Representing Immigrant Youth, Part 2

Join PAIR’s Elizabeth Badger for this continued pro bono training on working with undocumented
immigrant youth. In this session, Attorney Badger will cover other forms of immigration relief that
undocumented immigrant youth may be eligible for, specifically asylum law for those who are fleeing
persecution, U visa relief for victims of certain crimes committed in the U.S., and T visa relief for those who are
victims of trafficking. Attorney Badger will cover how these different forms of immigration relief can help a minor gain legal status and stability in the U.S. Please RSVP here.

Join PAIR’s Elizabeth Badger for this continued pro bono training on working with undocumented immigrant youth. In this session, Attorney Badger will cover other forms of immigration relief that undocumented immigrant youth may be eligible for, specifically asylum law for those who are fleeing persecution, U visa relief for victims of certain crimes committed in the U.S., and T visa relief for those who are victims of trafficking. Attorney Badger will cover how these different forms of immigration relief can help a minor gain legal status and stability in the U.S. Please RSVP here.

WHEN:
Wednesday, November 17, 2021
12:00 PM - 1:30 PM  

WHERE:
Boston Bar Association
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Best Practices for Completing an Application for Asylum 

In this BBA webinar, moderated by PAIR's Sarah Allar, PAIR's Violeta Haralampieva will explain the technical aspects of preparing and filing Form I-589, Application for Asylum. She will share best practices for completing the biographical sections and substantive questions regarding the applicant's fear of returning to their country of origin, as well as tips for filing with USCIS and EOIR. After this presentation, you will be well equipped to build a strong foundation for your client's asylum claim. Please RSVP here.

WHEN:
Monday, November 15, 2021
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM  

WHERE:
Boston Bar Association
Boston, MA (Zoom)

Special Considerations when Representing Immigrant Youth, Part 1

Join PAIR’s Elizabeth Badger for this introductory pro bono training on working with undocumented
immigrant youth. In this session, Attorney Badger will cover the reasons why many children flee to the U.S.
alone despite the dangerous journey and what they face on their way to the U.S. and at the Southern border.
She will provide interview tips and guidance on how to work with minor clients; discuss techniques to draft
affidavits and gather supporting documents; and cover one powerful form of immigration relief, Special
Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) Status. She will also cover the probate court and the immigration processes of helping
your client win SIJ Status. Please RSVP here.

Join PAIR’s Elizabeth Badger for this introductory pro bono training on working with undocumented immigrant youth. In this session, Attorney Badger will cover the reasons why many children flee to the U.S. alone despite the dangerous journey and what they face on their way to the U.S. and at the Southern border. She will provide interview tips and guidance on how to work with minor clients; discuss techniques to draft affidavits and gather supporting documents; and cover one powerful form of immigration relief, Special
Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) Status. She will also cover the probate court and the immigration processes of helping your client win SIJ Status. Please RSVP here.

WHEN:
Tuesday, November 9, 2021
2:00 PM - 3:30 PM  

WHERE:
Boston Bar Association
Boston, MA (Zoom)

South Asian Reflections on Public Interest Careers: A Conversation with Non-Profit Leaders

Join PAIR’s Anita P. Sharma and other panelists as they discuss their careers, offer insight entering a public interest career, and  reflect on the need of greater South Asian representation in legal services. Please register here

WHEN:
Monday, November 8, 2021
6:30 PM - 7:30 PM  

WHERE:
South Asian Bar Association

Washington, D.C. (Zoom)

MassMutual Pro Bono Week: Asylum Initiative Information Session

Please join MassMutual's Alethea O’Donnell and PAIR's Seth Purcell as they speak about MassMutual’s Asylum Initiative and the immigration services we provide to indigent asylum seekers and detained immigrants. Come learn about the program, the populations we help, and how you can get involved.

WHEN:
Friday, October 29, 2021
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM  

WHERE:
MassMutual

Boston, MA (Online)

BU Law Pro Bono Fair

PAIR's Irene Friedel will speak to students at Boston University Law about PAIR's work with asylum seekers and detained immigrants, as well as opportunities to get involved during the academic year and summer.  

WHEN:
Friday, October 29, 2021
11:00 AM - 2:30 PM  

WHERE:
Boston University Law School

Boston, MA (Zoom)

Bond Hearings in Immigration Court

PAIR's Heather Arroyo will lead a training on preparing a bond case and arguing for the release of individuals in Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody through bond hearings in Immigration Court.

WHEN:
Thursday, October 28, 2021
12:15 PM - 1:15 PM  

WHERE:
Boston College Law School
Immigration Law Group

Newton, MA (Zoom)

Protecting Immigrant Rights

Please join PAIR's Julia Ciachurski, Javier Luengo-Garrido of the ACLU Immigration Protection Project, and Professor Halim Moris, Esq., NELB professor of Immigration Law as they discuss protecting immigrant rights, the immigration system at large, and practical matters of working with immigrants. 

WHEN:
Wednesday, October 27, 2021
4:30 PM - 6:00 PM  

WHERE:
American Civil Liberties Union Student Chapter and Immigration Law Society at New England Law | Boston

Boston, MA (Zoom)

Suffolk University/BBA Pro Bono Career Fair

This event will present legal services and other public interest and government organizations with the opportunity to connect with talented law students, recent graduates, and experienced attorneys about pro bono opportunities. PAIR's Elizabeth Badger will discuss the organization's mission, programs, and opportunities for engagement.

WHEN:
Wednesday, October 27, 2021
4:00 PM - 5:30 PM  

WHERE:
Suffolk University/Boston Bar Association

Boston, MA (Zoom)

U.S. Immigration Detention, Including During the SARS-CoV2 Pandemic

PAIR’s Heather Arroyo will speak to a cohort of medical and graduate nursing students about immigration detention of asylum seekers in the U.S., including detention during the pandemic, as part of the University of Massachusetts Medical School (UMMS) Population Health Clerkship on Refugee and Asylum Seeker Health.

WHEN:
Wednesday, October 27, 2021
11:00 AM - 2:00 PM  

WHERE:
University of Massachusetts Medical School

Boston, MA (Zoom)

BC Law Virtual Pro Bono Fair

PAIR's Julia Ciachurski will speak to students at Boston College Law about PAIR's work with asylum seekers and detained immigrants, as well as opportunities for law students to get involved during the academic year and summer.  

WHEN:
Wednesday, October 27, 2021
3:00 PM - 4:00 PM  

WHERE:
Boston College Law School

Newton, MA (Zoom)

Representing Asylum Seekers

Join PAIR and MLCE for a 4-hour pro bono training on asylum law, policy, and practice. PAIR’s Executive Director Anita P. Sharma will chair the panel and present alongside distinguished faculty members: Ilana Greenstein, David McHaffey, Dr. Sondra Crosby, and Meghann Boyle, Director of the Boston Asylum Office. Please register here

WHEN:
Wednesday, October 27, 2021
1:00 PM - 5:00 PM  

WHERE:
MCLE

Boston, MA (Zoom)

Creating a Culture of Belonging

Join PAIR’s Executive Director Anita P. Sharma and the Directors of the Margaret Fuller Neighborhood House, Girls Rock, and Metro West Legal Services on the power of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) in the nonprofit world. Come learn about how various social and cultural structures can oppress groups of people and how these nonprofits are committed to fostering equity and inclusion in the client work and within their organizations. 

WHEN:
Tuesday, October 26, 2021
10:00 AM - 11:30 AM  

WHERE:
SOAR Consulting

Boston, MA 

Medical-Legal Partnerships: Working With Immigrants and Asylum Seekers

PAIR’s Anita Sharma will speak to a cohort of medical and graduate nursing students about working with asylum seekers as part of the University of Massachusetts Medical School (UMMS) Population Health Clerkship on Refugee and Asylum Seeker Health. 

WHEN:
Tuesday, October 20, 2021
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM  

WHERE:
University of Massachusetts Medical School/ Lowell Community Health Center

Lowell, MA 

Asylum Intake Training

PAIR's Seth Purcell will provide an overview of asylum law and procedure, discuss how to conduct a successful asylum intake ,and offer tips on working with survivors of trauma. The training will be offered through Morgan Lewis and in collaboration with the firm's partnerships with General Electric, Crown Castle, and Guggenheim Partners.

WHEN:
Thursday, October 7, 2021
12:00 PM - 1:30 PM  

WHERE:
Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP

Boston, MA (Online)

Overview of PAIR

PAIR's Yanzie Chow will speak to associates at Fragomen about PAIR's work with asylum seekers and the impact of volunteer attorneys on PAIR's programs. This event is held in honor of Fragomen staff who donated to PAIR's I Make Justice Happen! 2021 Drive.  

WHEN:
Wednesday, October 6, 2021
5:30 PM - 6:00 PM  

WHERE:
Fragomen, Del Rey, Bernsen & Loewy LLP

Boston, MA

Public Interest Retreat Young Alumni Panel

PAIR's Heather Perez Arroyo, a Boston College Law alumna, along with other panelists, presented on building a career in public interest law and her experience providing direct representation to clients, particularly immigrants and asylum seekers.

WHEN:
Saturday, October 2, 2021
4:20 PM - 5:20 PM  

WHERE:
Boston College Law School

Chestnut Hill, MA

How to Help Clients from Afghanistan

PAIR's Sarah Allar will moderate a panel of immigration experts who will discuss people’s rights as immigrants in the U.S., different types of immigration relief that may benefit Afghan citizens, local community resources, and how to expedite a pending immigration case.

WHEN:
Wednesday, September 8, 2021
3:30 PM - 4:30 PM  

WHERE:
American Immigration Lawyers Association

Online

Asylum Intake Training

PAIR's Seth Purcell will provide an overview of asylum law and procedure, discuss how to conduct a successful asylum intake, and offer tips on working with survivors of trauma to associates at Ropes & Gray and Abbvie. 

WHEN:
Tuesday, July 13, 2021
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM  

WHERE:
Ropes & Gray LLP/Abbvie

Boston, MA (Online)

Trauma Sensitivity and Migration

PAIR’s Elizabeth Badger and Gabriella Chavez will speak to members of The Neighborhood Developers about the experiences of immigrants and refugees who migrate to the U.S., which are often fraught with trauma, and how providers can best support these individuals. 

WHEN:
Wednesday, June 23, 2021
11:00 AM - 1:00 PM  

WHERE:
The Neighborhood Developers

Chelsea, MA

Networking with Legal Services Attorneys

PAIR’s Seth Purcell will participate in the BBA’s virtual networking event for legal services attorneys. Law students and new lawyers are invited to join the BBA for a unique opportunity to meet with several Boston-area legal services attorneys in just one afternoon. Those who attend this event will have the chance to meet all of our guest attorneys from legal aid organizations in small groups to learn about lawyering in a pandemic, career paths, and legal opportunities available in Boston.

WHEN:
Tuesday, June 22, 2021
12:00 PM - 2:00 PM  

WHERE:
Boston Bar Association

Online

Representing Asylum Seekers

This training, led by PAIR’s Anita P. Sharma, covers the basics of asylum law: how to build the theory of your case, packaging an asylum case, working with traumatized clients, gathering supporting documents, tips for practicing at the Boston asylum office and immigration court, and post asylum grant benefits. 

WHEN:
Friday, June 11, 2021
1:30 PM - 3:30 PM  

WHERE:
Ropes & Gray LLP

Boston, MA

Asylum Intake Training

PAIR's Seth Purcell will provide an overview of asylum law and procedure, discuss how to conduct a successful asylum intake ,and offer tips on working with survivors of trauma to associates at Mintz Levin.

WHEN:
Thursday, June 10, 2021
12:00 PM - 1:30 PM  

WHERE:
Mintz, Levin, Cohn, Ferris, Glovsky and Popeo, P.C.

Boston, MA (Online)

Resources for LGBTQ+ Immigrants and Refugees

As part of the MOIA Weekly Webinar series, join PAIR's Violeta Haralampieva and various speakers, including Qwin Mbabazi from GLAD, Davine Holness from the Justice Resource Institute - Boston GLASS, and H. Harrison from the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination as they discuss COVID-19 related resources for LGBTQ+ immigrants and refugees.

WHEN:
Tuesday, June 8, 2021
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM  

WHERE:
Mayor's Office of Immigrant Advancement

Online

Supporting Asylum Seekers

At the invitation of the Newton-Brookline Asylum Resettlement Coalition (NBARC), PAIR's Seth Purcell speaks to the First Unitarian Universalist Society in Newton about the current immigration landscape, PAIR's programming, and community partnerships in support of asylum-seekers.

WHEN:
Sunday, May 16, 2021
3:00 PM - 4:00 PM  

WHERE:
Newton-Brookline Asylum Resettlement Coalition (NBARC)

Online

Immigration & Immigration Policies

PAIR’s Violeta Haralampieva joined attorneys from several other legal services organizations for a panel on legal services available to immigrants in Massachusetts. Violeta introduced PAIR and our work, spoke about our clients’ need for medical and mental health services, and explained how medical providers can support asylum-seekers. The event was organized by the Community Health Network Area of the Cape and Islands.

WHEN:
Thursday, May 13, 2021
9:00 AM - 11:00 AM  

WHERE:
Community Health Network Area
of the Cape and Islands

Online

Ruth Forum: Repairing the World

Join PAIR's Executive Director Anita P. Sharma and other distinguished panelists from Combined Jewish Philanthropies, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and Jewish Vocational Service as they discuss several Jewish community partnership initiatives focused on uplifting the lives of thousands of refugees and asylees living in greater Boston. Register here

WHEN:
Tuesday, May 11, 2021
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM  

WHERE:
Jewish Vocational Service

Online

Race, Equity, Policy Series: Criminal Justice through the Immigrant Lens

PAIR's Heather Arroyo and 3 other panelists will explore the unique experiences of immigrant communities within the criminal justice system in this community conversation.
The goal of the session is that all participants are engaged in critical discourse, informed by evidence, and empowered to take action based on the exploration of the U.S. criminal justice system as it is, and as it might be. RSVP here

WHEN:
Wednesday, April 28, 2021
5:00 PM - 6:30 PM  

WHERE:
Boston Debate League (BDL) and
Suffolk University

Online

Asylum Practice in the Time of COVID: Current Procedures at the Boston Asylum Office and in Boston Immigration Court

Join PAIR's Violeta Haralampieva and Irene Freidel as they provide comprehensive updates and tips on the latest asylum practice before USCIS/the Boston Asylum Office and in Boston Immigration Court, with a focus on recent procedural changes. Practitioners will learn how to navigate the rules for filings, asylum interviews, and court hearings during the pandemic, what changes to watch for in the newest edition of the Immigration Court Practice Manual, as well as how anticipated shifts in asylum policy under the Biden Administration could affect the process of adjudication. Register here

WHEN:
Friday, April 30, 2021
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM  

WHERE:
Boston Bar Association

Online

Representing Asylum Seekers: Country Conditions 

As part of a PAIR-Weil pro bono partnership, PAIR’s Elena Noureddine will train attorneys at Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP on how to prepare country condition reports in support of asylum claims and how to effectively use these reports to corroborate a client’s case.

WHEN:
Thursday, April 15, 2021
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM  

WHERE:
Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP

Online

Asylum Intake Training

PAIR's Seth Purcell will provide an overview of asylum law and procedure, discuss how to conduct a successful asylum intake ,and offer tips on working with survivors of trauma with associates of Microsoft. 

WHEN:
Tuesday, April 13, 2021
10:30 AM - 12:00 PM  

WHERE:
Microsoft

Boston, MA (Online)

Ethical Issues in Remote Pro Bono Service

Join PAIR’s Executive Director, Anita P. Sharma, and Mintz’s Susan Finegan and Patrick Sharkey, as they look at the impact of COVID-19 on nonprofit legal services and pro bono representation. The speakers will look at the ABA Model rules and local rules and how to address ethical issues as they arise when working with clients, looking at pro bono practice during the pandemic. To attend this session or the Pro Bono Institute Annual Conference, March 23-26, please register here.

WHEN:
Thursday, March 25, 2021
2:45 PM - 3:45 PM  

WHERE:
Pro Bono Institute

Online

Understanding & Supporting Community Immigration Issues

PAIR's Elizabeth Badger and Gabriella Chavez will provide a training for the Salem Public School District that covers an overview of the immigration process, common migration experiences, new immigration developments, and resources for supporting newcomer youth and families.

WHEN:
Monday, March 22, 2021
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM  

WHERE:
Salem Public Schools

Online

Immigration Careers Networking Event

The Immigration Law Group and the Career Services Office are offering an opportunity to meet practitioners across a variety of careers in immigration law. Practice areas represented will include government, legal services, business immigration, law firms with immigration pro bono practices, and detention work. Presenters include PAIR's Heather Perez Arroyo, Lisa Weinberg of De Novo Center for Justice and Healing and Jill Seeber of Mabel Center for Immigrant Justice.

WHEN:
Monday, March 8, 2021
7:00 PM - 8:00 PM  

WHERE:
Boston College Law School

Online

Agents for Change in Nonprofit and Mission Driven Organizations Roundtable

As current students consider career options related to their interests in a range of social justice issues, this roundtable will offer discussion about opportunities and challenges related to the experiences of several HDS alumni. Panelists include PAIR's Gabriella Chavez, Anna Mullen of National Farm to School Network, Nicole Castillo of Rose Andom Center, and Hannah Stohler of Marguerite's Place.

WHEN:
Monday, March 8, 2021
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM  

WHERE:
Harvard Divinity School

Online

The Continued Assault on Asylum: How to Formulate PSGs in Light of Recent Case Law

Please Join PAIR’s Elizabeth Badger, Dree Collopy of AILA National, and Kate Lebeaux of McHaffey and Nice at the AILA NE Annual Conference for a session on asylum law, covering BIA and 1st Circuit case caw on PSG; regulations, policy, and adjudication trends; and strategies to overcome challenges for effective PSG arguments. The panel will be moderated by Robin Nice, AILA NE. Register directly with AILA here

WHEN:
Friday, March 5, 2021
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM  

WHERE:
AILA New England

Online

Update on Changes to Immigration Law

Join PAIR’s Executive Director Anita P. Sharma as she moderates a session with immigration law experts Ilana Greenstein and Jessica Chicco, who will provide insight into potential changes to immigration law. The program will be geared towards helping legal services and pro bono attorneys provide the most effective possible representation under new executive actions, pending federal court litigation, and potential legislation. Please register directly with the BBA here.

WHEN:
Monday, February 22, 2021
1:00 PM - 2:15 PM  

WHERE:
Boston Bar Association

Online

When Worlds Collide Federal-State Immigration Enforcement Tensions in Transition

Join PAIR's Heather Arroyo and other distinguished panelists as they reflect what has transpired during the Trump Administration and considers what may change during the Biden Administration. The audience will learn about the federal-state supremacy issues at play, the status and significance of the Safe Communities Act, the relevance of sanctuary cities initiatives, the ongoing challenge of courthouse arrests, the risks to state court judges, and much more. 

WHEN:
Tuesday, February 16, 2021
12:00 PM - 1:30 PM  

WHERE:
Boston Bar Association

Online

SEL Block Speaker Series

PAIR's Social Services Coordinator Gabriella Chavez presents to high schoolers at the Bridge Academy about being first generation Latinx and her experience working in legal services.

WHEN:
Friday, February 5, 2021
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM  

WHERE:
Bridge Academy/Chelsea High School

Online

Releasing your Client from Detention: Bond Hearings in Immigration Court

Join Elena Noureddine, PAIR’s Legal Director, and an expert in detention and removal issues as she leads a discussion on the how-tos of bond hearings in Immigration Court at the AILA January chapter meeting.

WHEN:
Thursday, January 28, 2021
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM  

WHERE:
American Immigration Lawyers Association 

Online

Immigration Updates Regarding President Biden’s Executive Orders and Regulatory Changes

Elena Noureddine, PAIR's Legal Director presents an overview of immigration updates regarding President Biden’s new Executive Orders and regulatory changes at the BBA Delivery of Legal Services Section Steering Committee Meeting.

WHEN:
Monday, January 25, 2021
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM  

WHERE:
Boston Bar Association

Online

Immigration: Current Perspectives and Changing the Conversation

As a part of a Social Justice Series, the Burlington Library invites immigration experts to discuss the support and protection of immigrant rights, how to be an ally to immigrants, and how to change the current conversation as it relates to immigrants in America. Panelists will include PAIR's Violeta Haralampieva along with Denzil Mohammed from The ILC Public Education Institute and Margalit Tepper from the Massachusetts Immigrant & Refugee Advocacy Coalition. Please RSVP here.

WHEN:
Thursday, December 17, 2020
7:00 PM - 8:00 PM  

WHERE:
Burlington Public Library

Online

Power Dynamics That Lead to Oppression

Join PAIR’s Heather Perez and Heather Wightman of RIA House in an important discussion hosted by The Philanthropy Connection on power dynamics meant to keep certain people subordinated. Come learn about how various social and cultural structures can oppress groups of people, such as trafficking survivors and asylum seekers, while benefiting others. 

WHEN:
Tuesday, November 17, 2020
12:00 PM - 1:30 PM  

WHERE:
The Philanthropy Connection

Online

Careers in Human Rights

PAIR's Seth Purcell participates in a panel discussion at Boston University's Pardee School about careers in the field of human rights. Other distinguished panelists include Brian Concannon of Project Bluepoint, Cynthia Gabriel of Amnesty International, and Diana Kearney of Oxfam America.

WHEN:
Tuesday, November 10, 2020
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM  

WHERE:
Boston University and Boston Network for International Development

Online

Immigration Representation & Gang Allegations

PAIR's Elizabeth Badger joins Emily Leung of Southeast Justice Center and Claire Valentin of CPCS Immigration Impact Unit to discuss the increased detention and deportation of young immigrants based on alleged gang involvement, and how to proactively protect your immigrant clients as well as defend them from gang allegations. 

WHEN:
Friday, November 6, 2020
2:00 PM - 3:30 PM  

WHERE:
Boston, MA

Online

Volunteers for Justice

PAIR's Seth Purcell will discuss the field of immigration legal services, PAIR's programming, and opportunities for engagement with current students and recent graduates of NUSL.

WHEN:
Friday, October 30, 2020
12:00 PM - 1:30 PM  

WHERE:
Northeastern University School of Law

Online

Immigration: Asylum Updates

PAIR’s Sarah Allar offers insight into several new regulations and circuit court decisions related to asylum eligibility and employment authorization eligibility for asylum seekers as she presents on asylum updates for a panel reviewing recent immigration updates across the field at the AILA October Chapter meeting.

WHEN:
Thursday, October 29, 2020
5:00 PM - 7:30 PM  

WHERE:
American Immigration Lawyers Association

Online

Immigrants’ Rights & Human Trafficking 

PAIR’s Elena Noureddine, along with Vivian Huelgo of the American Bar Association Commission on Domestic & Sexual Violence, spoke to clinical students at the Immigrants’ Rights & Human Trafficking Mentorship Program Breakfast. The program, which Attorney Noureddine has been involved in since its inception, connects current clinical program students with BU Law alumni in the immigrants’ rights and human trafficking fields. Attorney Noureddine and Attorney Huelgo were honored at this year’s event.

WHEN:
Thursday, October 29, 2020
8:00 AM - 9:30 AM  

WHERE:
Boston University School of Law

Online

Working With Immigrants and Asylum Seekers

PAIR's Anita Sharma will speak to a cohort of medical and graduate nursing students about working with asylum seekers as part of the University of Massachusetts Medical School (UMMS) Population Health Clerkship on Refugee and Asylum Seeker Health. 

WHEN:
Monday, October 26, 2020
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM  

WHERE:
University of Massachusetts Medical School

Online

Immigration Detention of Asylum Seekers in the U.S.

PAIR's Elena Nourredine will speak to a cohort of medical and graduate nursing students about immigration detention of asylum seekers in the U.S., including detention during the pandemic, as part of the University of Massachusetts Medical School (UMMS) Population Health Clerkship on Refugee and Asylum Seeker Health. 

WHEN:
Monday, October 26, 2020
9:30 AM - 10:30 AM  

WHERE:
University of Massachusetts Medical School

Online

BBA/Suffolk University Law School Pro Bono Fair

This event will present legal services and other public interest and government organizations with the opportunity to connect with talented law students, recent graduates, and experienced attorneys about pro bono opportunities. PAIR's Seth Purcell will discuss the organization's mission, programs, and opportunities for engagement.

WHEN:
Thursday, October 22, 2020
2:30 PM - 4:00 PM  

WHERE:
Suffolk University Law School/
Boston Bar Association

Boston, MA (Zoom)

Representing Asylum Seekers

Join PAIR and MLCE for a 4-hour pro bono training on asylum law, policy, and practice. PAIR's Executive Director Anita P. Sharma will chair the panel and present alongside distinguished faculty members: Ilana Greenstein, David McHaffey, Dr. Sondra Crosby, and Meghann Boyle, Director of the Boston Asylum Office. Please register here.

WHEN:
Wednesday, October 21, 2020
1:00 PM - 5:00 PM  

WHERE:
MCLE New England 

Boston, MA

Working with Asylum Seekers at PAIR

PAIR's Seth Purcell will discuss PAIR's mission, programs, and opportunities for engagement at the Boston Bar Association/Suffolk University Law School Pro Bono Fair.
This event will present legal services and other public interest and government organizations with the opportunity to connect with talented law students, recent graduates, and experienced attorneys about pro bono opportunities. 

WHEN:
Thursday, October 22, 2020
2:30 PM - 4:00 PM  

WHERE:
Boston Bar Association/Suffolk University

Online

At the US-Mexico Border: Bearing Witness to the Humanitarian Crisis and Its Ripple Effects

PAIR's Elena Nourredine will join other distinguished panelists speaking about child migration, family separation and detention at the US-Mexico Border. This session is part of the 2020 Pediatric Global Health Summit.

WHEN:
Wednesday, October 21, 2020
9:00 AM - 10:15 AM  

WHERE:
MassGeneral Hospital for Children 

Boston, MA

What's New in the Law and Practice of Immigration Bond Hearings: Guidance for Practitioners

This webinar will discuss the latest developments in the fast-changing area of immigration detention, including current bond eligibility requirements, what interactions with law enforcement can make a client's detention mandatory, options if your client is subject to mandatory detention, and the burden of proof under the current legal landscape. Speakers include Mary Holper from Boston College Law School, Emma Winger from American Immigration Counsel, and PAIR's Elena Nourredine and Violeta Haralampieva, 

WHEN:
Thursday, October 8, 2020
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM  

WHERE:
Boston Bar Association

Online

Working With Immigrants and Asylum Seekers at the US Borders and Its Cities

PAIR's Seth Purcell joins a virtual panel discussion of local and national attorneys, working locally and at the border with immigrants and asylum seekers. Moderated by Professor Hemanth Gundavaram from the Northeastern University Immigrant Justice Clinic, the attorneys will discuss current trends and challenges in navigating the complex legal system surrounding immigration and asylum in the United States.

WHEN:
Tuesday, October 6, 2020
7:00 PM - 8:30 PM  

WHERE:
Northeastern University

Online

Asylum Update: Tales of Success & Ongoing Challenges

PAIR's Elizabeth Badger and Irene Freidel shared about their ongoing work with asylum seekers and ICE detainees, as well as the current challenges faced by those seeking humanitarian relief in the U.S. with supporters of the Asylum Support Fund.

WHEN:
Monday, October 5, 2020
6:30 PM - 7:30 PM  

WHERE:
Boston, MA

Online

Paths to the Law Industry

PAIR's Heather Perez joins an Alumni Panel Discussion, co-hosted by the Boston College Alumni Association and the Boston College Career Center. Other panelists include Angela Donkor of Cleary Gottlieb of Steen & Hamilton LLP,
Dineen Riviezzo of New York Claims Court and Cusaj Thomas of Goodwin Procter LLP.

WHEN:
Thursday, October 1, 2020
6:00 PM - 7:00 PM  

WHERE:
Boston College Alumni Association

Online

Immigration Law in the Current Political Environment

The Diversity and Inclusion Committee of Todd & Weld LLP is hosting an Immigration Program to discuss immigration law and what it is like to be an immigration lawyer in today’s political environment. PAIR's Heather Perez and Attorney Rachel Self will join as panelists.

WHEN:
Friday, September 25, 2020
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM  

WHERE:
Todd & Weld LLP

Online

Career Panel with Young Leaders

PAIR's Social Services Coordinator Gabriella Chavez will present on a panel with Mario Paredes from MLRI about being Latinx in the legal services field to the young leaders program at the Chelsea Boys and Girls Club.

WHEN:
Wednesday, August 19, 2020
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM  

WHERE:
Chelsea Boys and Girls Club 

Online

Representing Asylum Seekers & Immigration Overview

PAIR's Seth Purcell will speak to students enrolled in Northeastern University School of Law's Immigration course. Topics discussed included changes in the field of immigration over the past five years, current challenges faced by asylum-seekers, and what it is like to work in the immigration legal services realm.

WHEN:
Tuesday, July 28, 2020
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM  

WHERE:
Northeastern University School of Law

Boston, MA

Nuts and Bolts of Bonds for Detained Family Members and Relief Options

Join PAIR's Elena Noureddine and other practitioners as they discuss legal tactics and strategies to best assist detained clients and their families at the 19th Annual Family-Based Immigration Law Conference. View the program here and RSVP directly with MCLE. 

WHEN:
Tuesday, July 28, 2020
9:30 AM - 4:30 PM  

WHERE:
MCLE Conference Center &

Live Webcast

Pro Bono Attorney Training: Representing Asylum Seekers

This training, led by PAIR's Anita P. Sharma, covers asylum law and procedure, packaging a case, working with traumatized clients, and practice tips for practicing at the Boston asylum office and immigration court.

WHEN:
Friday, July 17, 2020 
11:30 AM - 1:30 PM  

WHERE:
Ropes & Gray LLP

Boston, MA

Evaluating Progress for Continuous Learning: Lessons Learned from our 2018 Social Innovators

PAIR's Development Associate Yanzie Chow and other representatives from SIF's 2018 cohort of Social Innovators will share about how their experiences with performance measurement enhance their work, advocacy and capacity-building as they endeavor to respond to the needs of their communities and the world around us. Register here.

WHEN:
Tuesday, July 14, 2020
10:00 AM - 11:30 AM  

WHERE:
Social Innovation Form

Boston, MA

BBA Virtual Event: Public Interest Networking Coffee for Law Students and New Lawyers

PAIR's Elena Noureddine and Sarah Allar will discuss PAIR's work to protect asylum seekers and detained immigrants with new lawyers and law students at a virtual networking coffee event sponsored by the BBA Delivery of Legal Services Section and the BBA New Lawyers Forum. Register here

WHEN:
Thursday, July 9, 2020
8:30 AM - 9:30 AM  

WHERE:
Boston Bar Association

Boston, MA


Past training sessions

9 JUNE 2020

Pro Bono Opportunities

PAIR's Seth Purcell shared PAIR's work and described the various pro bono opportunities that are available for attorneys at Morgan Lewis.

15 MAY 2020

Careers in Focus: Clinical Work

PAIR's Heather Perez, along with ACLU Utah's Immigrants' Rights Legal Fellow Valentina De Fex and Boston College clinical professors Mary Holper and Alan Minuskin spoke about their experiential opportunities and how graduates can launch successful careers in immigration law.

4 MAY 2020

Community Conversation with Immigration Advocates and Partners in Response to COVID-19

PAIR's Elena Noureddine discussed representing detained asylum seekers during the COVID-19 outbreak alongside Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley and renowned immigration activists at Project Citizenship, The Massachusetts TPS Committee, Asian American Resource Workshop, Centro Presente, and Lawyers for Civil Rights.

20 APRIL 2020

Pro Bono Training: Asylum 101

PAIR's Seth Purcell conducted a training in asylum law, how to work with an asylum-seeking client, and asylum case preparation and packaging to attorneys at MassMutual.

13 APRIL 2020

Pro Bono Training: Conducting Asylum Intake

PAIR's Asylum staff covered an overview of asylum law and the best steps to conducting an effective asylum intake at Fish & RIchardson.

9 APRIL 2020

Social Justice at Harvard Divinity School

PAIR's Gabriella Chavez shared her experiences as the Social Services Coordinator/Paralegal at PAIR and her work with unaccompanied minors and clients fleeing extreme violence from all over the world.

23 MARCH 2020

Proving Well-Founded Fear through Country Conditions Documentation

PAIR’s Elena Noureddine trained attorneys at Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP on how to prepare country condition reports in support of asylum claims and how to effectively use these reports to corroborate a client’s case.

5 MARCH 2020

Representing Victims of Trafficking: the Asylum Ban and T Visas

PAIR's Elizabeth Badger discussed trafficking and how it apples to asylum cases, as well as strategies for managing T visa cases at Ropes & Gray.

28 FEBRUARY 2020

Relief from Detention and Deportation

As part of the 17th Annual AILA New England Immigration Law Conference, PAIR's Elena Noureddine, Sarah Sherman-Stokes, Associate Director of BU Law Immigrants’ Rights and Human Trafficking Program, and Christina Corbaci of Corbaci Law, P.C. covered recent changes in the law related to detention and removal, and provided tips and strategies for representing immigrant clients before EOIR. 

6 FEBRUARY 2020

Special Immigrant Juvenile Status & Asylum Training

PAIR's Elizabeth Badger discussed Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS) and how to manage SIJS cases, derivative asylum and preserving independent claims, especially for children subject to the asylum ban at Ropes & Gray.

4 FEBRUARY 2020

Women in Immigration Law

PAIR’s Elena Noureddine shared her experiences as an attorney at PAIR on a panel hosted by the New England School of Law’s Immigration Law Association and the Women's Law Caucus.

4 FEBRUARY 2020

Immigration Bond 101 in the Era of Pereira Brito v. Barr

PAIR’s Elena Noureddine prepared attorneys for representing clients in bond hearings before the Boston Immigration Court. The training, sponsored by PAIR, AILA New England Chapter and the ACLU of MA, focused on tips, trends, updates since the groundbreaking decision in Pereira Brito v. Barr. 

29 JANUARY 2020

Humanitarian Crisis at the Border

PAIR's Heather Perez spoke to high school and middle school students about the current situation for asylum seekers at the border, including her experience in Tijuana providing pro bono legal services for individuals subjected to the "Remain in Mexico" policy, and its overall impact on the immigrant community.

28 JANUARY 2020

Representing Asylum Seekers

PAIR's Anita P. Sharma and Elena Noureddine covered asylum law and procedure, packaging a case, working with traumatized clients, and practice tips for practicing at the Boston asylum office and immigration court at Foley & Lardner.

27 JANUARY 2020

Immigration Detention, Asylum, and the Immigration Court

PAIR's Irene Freidel gave an overview of immigration detention, asylum and the Immigration Court to students in a Global Health and Human Rights seminar at CHA Central Street Health Center. 

23 JANUARY 2020

Reflections from a SIF Innovator

PAIR's Anita P. Sharma gave an overview of PAIR's asylum, detention, and community engagement work and shared her experiences from Social Innovation Forum's 2018 Innovator's Accelerator Program. 

13 DECEMBER 2019

Helping Detained Immigrants Secure a New Bond Hearing in Federal Court

PAIR's Elena Noureddine prepared attorneys at Mintz Levin to assist detained non-citizens in securing new bond hearings and, hopefully, release from custody. 

6 DECEMBER 2019

Home for the Holidays Bond Training

PAIR's Elena Noureddine presented a training for attorneys at Fragomen on representing detained immigrants in bond proceedings, including substantive standards such as eligibility for bond and significant factors in a bond determination.

8 NOVEMBER 2019

Asylum 101 Pro Bono Training

PAIR's Anita P. Sharma and Elena Noureddine, along with Dr. Sondra Crosby, covered this training on asylum law and procedure, how to work with traumatized clients, tips for immigration court practice, and perspectives from the adjudicator at Ropes & Gray. 

30 OCTOBER 2019

Pro Bono Training: Representing Asylum Seekers

This MCLE training covered asylum law and procedure, how to work with traumatized clients, tips for immigration court practice, and perspectives from the adjudicator. The faculty included PAIR's Anita P. Sharma, Meghann Boyle, the Boston Asylum Office, Sondra Crosby, Ilana Greenstein and David McHaffey.

24 OCTOBER 2019

Massachusetts Judicial Conference

This day long training covered legal practice in Massachusetts state courts. The faculty included a long list of honorable judges, expert legal practitioners, including PAIR's Elizabeth Badger, and community-based groups. 

24 OCTOBER 2019

A Day in the Life of an Immigration Attorney

PAIR’s Elena Noureddine and attorneys from various areas of immigration law shared their experiences, paths, and tips on being an immigration attorney. 

24 OCTOBER 2019

Fighting the Asylum Ban

PAIR's Irene Freidel and Center for Constitutional Rights's Angelo Guisado spoke about their efforts to fight back against the asylum ban - a regulation that went into effect on July 16, 2019.

18 OCTOBER 2019

Independence & The Courts

PAIR's Elizabeth Badger presented on her SIJS work at the 2019 District of Rhode Island Conference. The faculty included a long list of honorable judges, expert legal practitioners, and community-based groups.

6 OCTOBER 2019

La Fiesta Health Fair

PAIR's Mikaela Wolf-Sorkin and Elena Noureddine participated in the Boston Health Care for the Homeless' annual health fair to share how immigrants can protect their legal rights.

29 SEPTEMBER 2019

BC Public Interest Law Retreat

PAIR's Heather Perez spoke on a panel of young BC Law Alumni to share her experiences as a public interest attorney at PAIR and gave advice on building relevant knowledge, skills, and experience to start a career in public interest law.  

11 SEPTEMBER 2019

Asylum 101  Pro Bono Training

PAIR's Anita P. Sharma led an asylum law basics training for pro bono attorneys interested in taking a PAIR case. This training covered asylum law and procedure, how to work with traumatized clients, tips for immigration court practice, and perspectives from the adjudicator.  

24 JULY 2019

Lenny Zakim Fund: Bridge Builders Breakfast

PAIR's Anita P. Sharma, joined by distinuished speakers Wilson Taty, Sarath Suong, and Westy Egmost, discussed their work to protect asylum seekers and immigrants who are being unjustly detained by the immigration service.  

23 JULY 2019

Pro Bono Training: Know Your Rights

PAIR's Mikaela Wolf-Sorokin and Elena Noureddine presented a Know Your Rights “train the trainers” and legal orientation intake training for interested volunteer attorneys.

18 JULY 2019

PAIR 30: Pro Bono Training

PAIR's Elizabeth Badger and Elena Noureddine presented a training on representing detained immigrants in bond proceedings, including substantive standards such as eligibility for bond and significant factors in a bond determination.

12 JULY 2019

Lights for Liberty

PAIR was honored to partner with the City of Cambridge Mayor's Office, City of Somerville, local legal aid partners, and thousands of others worldwide for #Lights4Liberty, a call to end the cruel treatment of immigrants who are being unjustly detained.

10 JULY 2019

Funder/Non-profit Connections

PAIR's Anita P. Sharma spoke to a group of funders about her non-profit work, power dynamics between grantors and grantees, and the challenges of the grant-making process.

18 JUNE 2019

Exploring Public Interest Careers

PAIR's Sarah Allar and Jennifer Reyes discussed PAIR's work to protect asylum seekers and detained immigrants and present on various pro bono opportunities. 

18 JUNE 2019

AILA New Members Brown Bag

PAIR's Sarah Allar provided a crash course on asylum law for new practitioners and will provide insight into the many changes that have arisen during the current administration.

13 JUNE 2019

PAIR 30: Pro Bono Training

PAIR's Heather Perez and Seth Purcell discussed the various ways by which volunteer attorneys can get involved with PAIR’s Asylum and Detention work to protect the rights of immigrants.

6 JUNE 2019

PAIR 30: No Easy Justice 

PAIR's Violeta Haralampieva, joined by distinguished panelists, Richard Iandoli, Mica Warton, and Jonathan Briseno, discussed the history of U.S. asylum law with regard to protections for LGBTQ+ asylum seekers and provided action steps we can all take in the continued fight for justice and equality.

13 MAY 2019

Stories of Resilience

Ema Pasic-Reid, a refugee, new mom, skier, climber, and runner, shared her incredible story to find a safe haven in the U.S., joined by Anita P. Sharma and Seth Purcell, of PAIR, who discussed the immense legal challenges that asylum seekers face today. 

29 APRIL 2019

PAIR 30: Representing Detained Asylum Seekers

To celebrate PAIR's 30th anniversary, PAIR hosted a series of social issue talks and trainings. PAIR's Elena Noureddine led a training on representing detained asylum seekers. Training topics included eligibility requirements, preparing the application, and tips for handling a detained-docket timeline. 

29 APRIL 2019

PAIR 30: Pro Bono Training 

PAIR's Elizabeth Badger led a training on how to conduct a SIJS and asylum intake and tips on working with vulerable youth seeking representation in their immigration cases. 

27 APRIL 2019

Youth Symposium on Juvenile Justice

PAIR's Heather Perez, among other distinguished speakers, spoke about the inequities in the judicial system, the consequences of an arraignment, and the school to prison pipeline. 

26 APRIL 2019

Public Interest Warrior 

PAIR's Heather Perez spoke as a recipient of the Boston College Public Service Fellowship about her experience during the fellowship at PAIR.

19 APRIL 2019

PAIR 30: Deportation Defense  

To celebrate PAIR's 30th anniversary, PAIR hosted a series of social issue talks and trainings. PAIR's Elena Noureddine conducted an advanced training on representing detained immigrants in proceedings. 

9 APRIL 2019

Reimagining the Non-profit/Funder Relationship

SIF Innovator Anita P. Sharma and track funder The Clowes Fund had a conversation with Vu Le about how nonprofit leaders and funders can work more effectively together to create long lasting social change.

8 APRIL 2019

PAIR 30: You Can Make A Difference

To celebrate PAIR's 30th anniversary, PAIR hosted a series of social issue talks and trainings. PAIR's Elena Noureddine provided an immigration basics training and described PAIR's various pro bono opportunities.

5 APRIL 2019

SIJS Pro Bono Training

PAIR's Elizabeth Badger, with distinguished speakers, presented a training on post-18 Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS) adjudications, strategies for RFEs and NOIDs, and tips for presenting cases in state court.

4 APRIL 2019

Responding to Challenges Facing Immigrant Women

PAIR's Anita P. Sharma discussed asylum law and the difficulties that asylum seekers face, in particular women fleeing violence. This lecture was part of a half-day panel event on the challenges that immigrant women face in the U.S.

4 APRIL 2019

Great Decisions: Refugees and Global Migration

PAIR's Seth Purcell and many other local non-profits had a discussion on Refugees & Global Migration hosted by WorldBoston, BNID, and UNAGB. 

2 APRIL 2019

Alianza Latina Career Panel

Career readiness for law students is critical. PAIR's Heather Perez spoke about her work representing detained immigrants.

1 APRIL 2019

Safe Haven No More

PAIR's Anita P. Sharma, Elena Noureddine, and Irene Freidel presented on the challenges that detained asylum seekers face. Two formerly detained PAIR asylee clients also joined the panel to share their experiences of working with PAIR.   

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