For immigrants fleeing persecution and violence, the opportunity to apply for asylum, withholding of removal, and Convention Against Torture (CAT) protection is vital. However, applying for these statuses can be a difficult and complex process. Volunteers from Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP partnered with Brooklyn Defenders’ Pro Bono Unit to support people in navigating these challenging processes.

People seeking asylum, withholding of removal, and Convention Against Torture (CAT) protection are responsible for demonstrating that they have an objectively reasonable fear of future persecution if returned to their country of origin through a document called a “country conditions report.” Country conditions reports need to be tailored to the specific applicant to explain why they are at risk if returned and must consider the various identity traits that put them at higher risk of persecution, which can include factors such as sexual orientation, mental and physical illness, violence and/or corruption in the country of origin.

Simpson Thacher’s volunteers researched and drafted country conditions reports for 16 people seeking these protection statuses. We are grateful to Simpson Thacher for expanding our capacity in this crucial work.

This is just one example of BDS’ Pro Bono Partnerships to leverage resources to provide the best legal representation possible for the people we serve. If your law firm is interested in collaborating with Brooklyn Defender Services Pro Bono Unit, please contact Molly Meltzer at mmeltzer@bds.org.