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Cook County launches program to assist immigrants with deportation proceedings

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(WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- Cook County public defenders are now representing immigrants in deportation proceedings.

The Immigration Pilot Unit is modeled after a program in San Francisco. Cook County Commissioner Alma Anaya, a formerly undocumented immigrant herself said it will save lives.


"It matters to make sure that individuals that go into immigration court have someone in their corner-someone that is advocating for them, someone who is walking them through the process."

Public Defender Sharone Mitchell, Jr. said it took some time to hire staff, but they're taking cases now.

"Our unit is already seeing successes-achieving bond for people we've represented. This means they've been reunited with their families depending on the outcome of the case."

To qualify, immigrants must lack the resources to arrange their own representation and either work or live in Cook County.