MINNEAPOLIS — A federal judge has ordered the U.S. government to negotiate with human rights lawyers regarding the right to counsel for individuals detained at a Minnesota Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility. Lawyers have raised substantial concerns about inadequate access to legal representation for detainees, who reportedly face significant obstacles in communicating with their attorneys.
On Friday, U.S. District Judge Nancy Brasel emphasized discrepancies between claims made by the government and allegations by legal advocates regarding detainees' access to counsel. The gap here is so enormous I don’t know how you’re going to close it, she stated, underscoring the need for a resolution as the parties work towards an agreement.
In a statement, Attorney Jeffrey Dubner remarked that while detainees can make phone calls, they do not have the ability for unmonitored discussions, which raises serious concerns about the confidentiality — and effectiveness — of their legal counsel. Judge Brasel encouraged both legal teams to collaborate with a retired judge who’s mediating the discussions.
The judge extended a deadline to reach an agreement until February 12, with a warning that she would deliver her ruling should they fail to reach a resolution.
Adding to the urgency, Democratic Congressman Kelly Morrison voiced concerns over the deplorable conditions at the detention center during her visit, which included the absence of protocols to prevent disease outbreaks.
As these negotiations unfold, critics argue that the treatment of detainees at ICE facilities illustrates broader issues within the U.S. immigration system, prompting widespread public protests and discussions on detainee rights and care.
