Stand With Migrants in Court
21 July 2025|JRS/USA|Action Toolkits
JRS/USA Court Observation Project
Many migrants appear in immigration court without legal representation, community support, or a familiar face beside them. Through the JRS/USA Court Observation Project, volunteers show up as trained observers and witnesses, offering a calm, respectful presence while helping document what happens inside immigration courtrooms.
Court observation is one way supporters can accompany migrants and help uphold dignity, transparency, and due process within the immigration system.
What Court Observers Do
Court observers not provide legal advice or represent migrants. Instead, they attend hearings, observe proceedings, document what they see, and offer a steady presence in a system that can feel isolating and overwhelming.
Observe
Attend immigration court hearings virtually or in person and pay close attention to what happens during proceedings.
Document
Record non-confidential observations that help identify patterns, concerns, and areas where greater support may be needed.
Accompany
Offer a respectful, non-disruptive presence so migrants know they are not alone during difficult legal moments.
Bear Witness
Help bring greater public awareness to the realities migrants face in immigration court.
Why Court Observation Matters
Immigration court can be intimidating, especially for migrants navigating proceedings in a new language, without an attorney, or after traumatic experiences. A trained observer can help create a sense of human presence in the courtroom while supporting broader efforts to protect dignity and due process.
Important Note
Court observers are not attorneys and do not provide legal advice. Anyone facing immigration proceedings should seek guidance from a qualified immigration attorney or accredited legal representative.
How to Get Involved
Sign Up
Complete the JRS/USA volunteer interest form and indicate your interest in court observation or migrant accompaniment.
Complete Training
Learn what to expect in immigration court, how to observe ethically, and how to protect confidentiality and safety.
Join a Local or Virtual Effort
Connect with JRS/USA and local partners to identify court observation opportunities that fit your availability and location.
Observe With Care
Attend hearings, document observations responsibly, and continue learning alongside other volunteers and advocates.
Who Can Participate?
The Court Observation Project is for people of faith and conscience who want to stand with migrants and support greater transparency in the immigration system. Volunteers may include parish members, students, attorneys, retired professionals, community organizers, educators, and concerned neighbors.
Helpful Resources
- JRS/USA Migrant Accompaniment Network
- U.S. Community Resources for Immigrants, Families, and Supporters
- Immigration Court Accompaniment Guide
- EOIR Automated Case Information System
- ICE Online Detainee Locator System
For Parishes and Faith Communities
Parishes and faith communities can support court observation by helping recruit volunteers, hosting information sessions, sharing Know Your Rights resources, and praying for migrants navigating immigration proceedings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is court observation?
Court observation is the practice of attending immigration court hearings as a trained observer to witness proceedings, document observations, and support greater transparency.
Do court observers give legal advice?
No. Court observers do not provide legal advice or representation. Migrants should consult a qualified immigration attorney or accredited representative for legal guidance.
Can I observe immigration court virtually?
Some immigration court hearings may be accessible virtually, depending on the court and case type. JRS/USA can help volunteers learn what options may be available.
How is court observation different from accompaniment?
Court observation focuses on witnessing and documenting immigration court proceedings. Accompaniment is broader and may include court support, ICE check-ins, family support, transportation, referrals, and community connection.
How can my parish get involved?
Parishes can invite members to volunteer, host educational events, share trusted immigration resources, and connect with JRS/USA’s Migrant Accompaniment Network.
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