November 2024 – Kendall Brill & Kelly Attorney Daniel Barlava, in joint representation with Irell & Manella LLP, successfully secured asylum for a family of four fleeing extreme violence in El Salvador. The family, who arrived in the U.S. in 2014, now has a renewed chance at safety and stability.
Following multiple years of extensive legal advocacy, including administrative filings, gathering of documentary evidence, complex legal briefing, and an in-person merits hearing in January 2024, the Immigration Court granted asylum to the husband, wife, and son over the government’s opposition. In a significant recent development, the family’s daughter was also granted asylum by the Immigration Court following remand orders issued by the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals and the Board of Immigration Appeals, reversing an initial denial of her asylum request. This successful outcome ensures that all four family members are now eligible to apply for lawful permanent residency.
Previously, in late 2023, KBK obtained the successful dismissal of the family’s grandson’s removal proceedings before the Board of Immigration Appeals, paving the way for him to pursue lawful permanent residency as well.
KBK, which is committed to pro bono representation and compassionate legal support, handled this case on a pro bono basis, along with Irell and Manella, Public Counsel, and the Center for Gender and Refugee Studies. These efforts reflect the firm’s commitment to justice and its belief in the transformative power of advocacy for those seeking refuge.