'No accountability': NYC immigration courts close to the public, lawsuit claims

"Long-time practitioners in this court system have informed [one of the plaintiffs] that the presence of even a single observer influences courtroom conduct, raising concerns about proceedings conducted without public oversight. It asks a federal judge to declare the restrictions unconstitutional and order the immigration courts to remain open."

"Federal agents and courthouse employees have imposed a series of unwritten, and at times arbitrary, rules to discourage, restrict or entirely block public attendance to immigration courts, according to the complaint, brought by five plaintiffs, who include clergy, legal observers and social services providers."

"The legal action also brings into view the work of community volunteers and advocates who accompany immigrants to the courthouse, provide non-legal assistance, emotional support and sometimes watch from galleries. The latter is particularly important as respondents frequently retain little of what occurs during their hearings."

A lawsuit filed in U.S. District Court in Manhattan challenges systematic restrictions on public access to federal immigration court proceedings in New York City over the past year. Federal agents and courthouse employees have implemented unwritten and arbitrary rules to discourage or block public attendance. The plaintiffs—including clergy, legal observers, and social services providers—argue these restrictions violate federal regulations and constitutional protections. The lawsuit emphasizes that public observation influences courtroom conduct and ensures oversight. The case emerges during President Trump's immigration crackdown, which has overwhelmed federal courts with hundreds of thousands of cases involving immigrants often without legal representation. Community advocates and volunteers provide crucial support to immigrants navigating these proceedings.

Read at Gothamist