Law Office of David Ilganayev, Esq. – Trusted Attorneys in New York City and New Jersey
If you’re searching for an immigration attorney in NYC, you may have heard about a new bill in the New York State Senate that could change how legal representation works in immigration court. Sponsored by Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal (D, WF – 47th District), Senate Bill S141 aims to give all immigrants facing deportation in New York the right to a free lawyer.
As of April 4, 2025, this legislation is under review by the Senate Finance Committee and it’s making headlines. While the proposed bill could offer broader access to legal representation, it also raises questions about the quality of defense and the actual benefits for immigrants navigating the complex U.S. immigration system.
What Is Senate Bill S141?
Senate Bill S141 seeks to:
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- Guarantee state-funded legal representation for all immigrants in removal (deportation) proceedings in New York.
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- Create a public defender-style system for immigration cases.
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- Reduce deportation.
This is especially relevant in New York City, where thousands of undocumented and non-citizen residents face ICE detention or deportation proceedings every year.
Pros of the Proposed Public Immigration Defense System
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- Increased Access: The bill could help low-income individuals who can’t afford legal counsel.
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- Fairer Outcomes: Even free representation can be better than none in immigration court, including the ability to remain in the U.S.
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- Systemic Reform: Establishing a legal safety net for non-citizens would be a major win for immigrant rights in NY.
The Risks: Why Free Legal Aid Isn’t Always the Best Option
While the bill’s goals are admirable, the practical reality is more complicated. Here’s why relying solely on court-appointed immigration lawyers in NYC might not be in your best interest:
1. Overburdened & Understaffed Public Systems
Public defenders in New York are often underpaid and juggle dozens of cases at once. Their time is stretched thin, and your case may not get the attention it deserves.
2. Less Experience, Less Specialization
Many court-appointed attorneys have limited resources, less courtroom experience, or may come from under-resourced law schools. Immigration law is highly technical, and outcomes depend heavily on strategy and experience.
3. Worse Case Outcomes
Data shows that people represented by private lawyers have significantly better outcomes than those with public defenders. This is true not only in immigration court but across all areas of legal practice.
Why Hiring Our Office As Your Immigration Attorney’s Is the Smart Choice
At the Law Office of David Ilganayev, Esq., we focus heavily on immigration and deportation defense and our NYC-based legal team delivers:
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- Expert Strategy – We stay ahead of every policy change and court trend.
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- Time & Attention – You’re not just another file. Your case gets our full focus.
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- Court-Tested Representation – Our attorneys are experienced advocates, not just paper-pushers.
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- Local Knowledge – We know how immigration courts operate and how to navigate them efficiently.
Whether you’re applying for asylum, fighting a deportation, or facing ICE detention, we are here to protect your rights and fight for your future.
Schedule a Free Consultation with us.
Call Law BY David at (718) 200-2866 or click here to schedule a free consultation. We represent clients throughout the country.
Frequently Searched Questions
Q: Do I qualify for a free immigration lawyer in NYC?
If Senate Bill S141 passes, you may but the quality and availability of that lawyer may vary greatly.
Q: Is it worth paying for a private immigration lawyer?
Absolutely. Private immigration attorneys have more time, better resources, and a stronger track record in court outcomes.
Q: Can Law By David handle asylum or deportation defense cases?
Yes. We specialize in complex immigration matters, including asylum, cancellation of removal, and ICE detention defense.
This blog post is for general informational and opinion purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice, nor does it create an attorney-client relationship between the reader and Mumbo Law. Every immigration case is unique, and you should consult directly with a qualified attorney to receive guidance tailored to your specific situation.