Juan Herrera: Transforming Lives Through Immigration Advocacy
As a third-year law student, Juan Herrera reflects on his invaluable experience with the Immigrant Rights Clinic, where he developed essential legal skills while assisting clients in their pursuit of freedom from immigration detention.
During his time at the clinic, Herrera cultivated trusting relationships with clients and their families, guiding them through complex legal challenges. His hands-on involvement encompassed drafting motions, assisting with habeas petitions, and gaining practical expertise in legal research, writing, and advocacy techniques.
Herrera engaged closely with faculty members to deepen his understanding of courtroom strategy and case management. This collaboration enabled him to build the foundational skills required to become a successful trial lawyer.
Hands-on Experience and Client Success
Last fall, while operating from the clinic’s in-house truck, Herrera took on significant responsibilities. He interviewed new clients, compiled essential data, coordinated hearing logistics, and assisted in drafting legal documents. As his caseload expanded, he refined his questioning techniques and learned how to foster trust among clients, witnesses, and their families—essential elements that contributed to the clinic’s initial achievements.
A standout moment in Herrera’s journey was witnessing the release of the clinic’s first client from ICE custody. This individual had faced illegal detention and was on the fast track to deportation. Thanks to the clinic’s efforts, he was able to reunite with his family. Herrera described the interactions with clients’ families post-release as some of the most memorable experiences of his law school career. Having grown up in a farm-working family in California’s Central Valley, Herrera found profound fulfillment in advocating for individuals deserving of fair treatment.
Diverse Clientele and Real-World Challenges
The clinic served a diverse clientele, including individuals of various ages and backgrounds who spoke multiple languages. Many clients had pending asylum claims and were apprehended unexpectedly while going about their daily lives. One particularly heartbreaking case involved a mother who lost her son, husband, and brother-in-law when she was stopped by an immigration officer for a minor driving violation. This mother faced the added challenge of raising her two young American-born sons, who underwent the traumatic experience of family detention.
Herrera’s education in the courtroom was further enhanced by observing professors Jonathan Abel and Richard Boswell in action. These real-life experiences taught him crucial lessons about engaging with opposing counsel, knowing when to assert oneself, and the role composure plays in determining the outcome of cases. Abel’s calm and respectful demeanor left a lasting impression on Herrera, influencing the type of trial lawyer he aspires to be.
Insights from Client Visits
Visiting clients in detention facilities provided Herrera with a stark understanding of their realities. His visits to the Golden State Annex in McFarland, north of Bakersfield, revealed unsettling conditions and violence within the facility. Despite the challenges, the clinic succeeded in securing the release of six clients last semester, marking a substantial impact, although many remain at risk of deportation due to limited resources.
Beyond the rewarding aspect of helping clients, Herrera’s experience at the clinic also sharpened his professional skills. He learned to collect and analyze data, draft legal motions, navigate complex Department of Homeland Security systems, and advocate effectively in court. Collaborating with passionate and talented colleagues further enriched his learning experience.
While UC Law SF offers a variety of clinics, Herrera highly recommends the Immigrant Rights Clinic for those looking to engage with a diverse group of clients. This clinic not only equips students with skills to navigate federal agencies and courts but also fosters real-world advocacy capabilities. Herrera believes this experience has made him not only a better law student but also a more conscientious individual.
The “Evidence of Success” series highlights the experiences of UC Law SF students, showcasing how these opportunities prepare them with the skills and confidence needed to thrive in the legal profession.
