How to Navigate FOIA Requests & FBI Background Checks to Obtain Immigration Records and Case Information

In immigration cases, just getting your client's records can be a byzantine process. Effective use of FOIA requests and FBI background checks are important tools in such scenarios, but identifying when to utilize these tools and executing them well is not intuitive. In this course, Board Certified Immigration And Nationality Attorney Ruby Powers will familiarize attorneys with the process of obtaining federal, state, and local government information under the Freedom of Information Act ("FOIA"), and its state counterparts, and FBI Background Checks for immigration cases. The program will cover how to effectively draft such requests, which agencies to contact for specific records, and tips to overcome challenging searches. 

This program will benefit immigration law practitioners at any level of experience.

Learning Objectives: 

1. Identify the why, when, where, and how to file background checks in immigration cases

2. Describe the various federal agencies that generally hold immigration records

3. Request records and appeal denials or incomplete responses

4. Provide tips for certain circumstances, such as representing minors or immigrants in removal proceedings

5. Review common FOIA errors and tips to overcome challenging searches including exemptions