The Immigrant Defense Project (IDP) of the New York State Defenders Association works to defend the legal, constitutional and human rights of immigrants facing criminal or deportation charges. IDP seeks to (1) minimize deportation and detention under current immigration laws for immigrants facing criminal charges or subsequent deportation, and (2) change the current system so that it does not result in the exile of immigrants from their homes and families in the United States. The Project serves as a legal resource for attorneys, advocates, and immigrants. It also promotes impact litigation by recruiting and mentoring pro bono attorneys and, it promotes community-based advocacy against unjust immigration laws.



IDP has a number of legal resources available on its website http://nysda.org/idp/index.htm. IDP has practice materials for criminal defense attorneys and immigration attorneys, including a Removal Defense Checklist and reference charts that list common criminal offenses and whether they might trigger a ground of removability. IDP also has pro se materials including "Know Your Rights" charts and guides to help unrepresented individuals understand the criminal justice and deportation systems. In addition, IDPs webpage provides information about its litigation efforts, including its involvement as amicus curiae before the courts of appeals and Supreme Court.