- February 18, 2021
- Colorado Fiscal Institute
Due process—the right to fair and equal treatment under the law—is one of the most fundamental values of the US legal system. Unfortunately, immigration proceedings are one area of that system where due process and the justice it affords is lacking. Immigration proceedings are the only part of the US legal system where there is no automatic right to be represented by an attorney in court.
Our latest report shows that a statewide legal defense fund, similar to one established by the City and County of Denver, would give due process to many immigrants who are not currently afforded it. In addition to allowing us to better live up to the values of our legal system, it would also result in millions of dollars in savings for workers, families, employers, and the state.