Cal State Bakersfield, along with 20 other CSU campuses, is providing free immigration legal services to students and university employees, the California State University announced Thursday.
Attorneys will be available on campus to help students with general consultations, DACA renewals and general assistance in filling out forms, such as family-based petitions, according to an email sent out to CSUB students.
“I am delighted that we will be able to increase the availability of immigration legal services to the California State University community,” said CSU Chancellor Timothy P. White. “We remain committed to ensuring that all CSU students have the opportunity to pursue their higher education goals regardless of their country of origin.”
Immigration attorneys from Immigration Legal Defense will be on campus at CSUB on Sept. 10-11 at the Dream Resource Center & Multicultural Alliance and Gender Equity Center Student Housing West, Rohan Hall 1st Floor.
“These thousands of Californians are pursuing their dreams for a better future every day on CSU campuses,” said White. “The expanded services and resources that will soon be available will bring support, legal guidance and some peace of mind to enable our students and employees to focus on academic and professional pursuits.”
This service is made possible through The California State University systemwide partnership with the California Department of Social Services. The California Department of Social Services has contracted with four providers throughout the state to deliver direct legal services to CSU campuses, according to a news release by CSU.
CSU estimates that approximately 9,500 CSU students are undocumented and receive AB 540 waivers across its 23 campuses.
Undocumented students will receive priority in scheduling of appointments and receiving legal assistance, followed by students with other legal immigration questions and then staff. It is recommended students schedule an appointment if they would like to see an attorney.