Immigration Clinic Celebrates Victory!

Touro Law Center’s Immigrant Rights Advocacy Clinic recently celebrated a significant victory, securing asylum for a client fleeing persecution abroad. Under faculty supervision, the student team led every stage of the case, working with experts, conducting in-depth legal and factual research, drafting legal briefs and motions, and fully litigating the case in Immigration Court.

For Michael O’Connor (3L), this experience went beyond building skills in immigration law. “Engaging in this case has provided me with a deep understanding of the complexities and nuances of immigration law, along with invaluable insight into effective client representation. This experience also taught me a crucial aspect: that representing someone in court requires more than legal knowledge; it demands trust, empathy, and a genuine connection between attorney and client,” he shared. “Moving forward, I will carry these lessons and experiences with me, guiding my dedication to advocating for justice and compassion within the legal system.”

The clinic’s hands-on approach ensures that students gain substantial experience with complex immigration cases while training in core lawyering skills. Through cases like this, students are not only prepared for the challenges of legal practice but also reminded of the profound impact their work can have on real lives.

Joshua Stickell (3L) reflected on the intense commitment required in the clinic’s work. “Since joining the clinic in late August 2024, I have dedicated more than 200 hours to our client’s case in just about ten weeks,” he noted. “Watching my partner and I grow into our roles, develop our skills, and understand the resilience and dedication required for this work under Professor Noroña’s guidance has been deeply rewarding. But most of all, I’ll never forget the look on our client’s face when he realized he could finally begin living his most authentic life, free from violence and fear. That moment is something I will forever cherish.” Students Holly Quintana (’24) and Precious Onuohah (2L) conducted initial research on the case in the Spring 2024 semester.

Pictured from left to right: Clinic Director Mauricio E. Noroña, student Joshua Stickell, clinic client, student Michael O'Connor.