Justice Department Targets Immigration Lawyer in Controversial Move

Justice Department Targets Immigration Lawyer in Controversial Move

This is sending a message': DOJ moves to sanction lawyer who took pro bono deportation case - POLITICO

Washington, D.C. — August 10, 2025
The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) is drawing sharp criticism this week after it announced formal sanctions against immigration attorney Joshua Schroeder, accusing him of filing a “frivolous” lawsuit in an attempt to delay the deportation of his client under the Alien Enemies Act—a law rarely invoked in modern courtrooms.

The case involves Vang Lor, a Laotian national facing imminent deportation. Schroeder had filed an emergency injunction earlier this year, citing fears that Lor’s removal could lead to life-threatening consequences in his home country. The DOJ, however, has claimed that the filing lacked sufficient legal merit and that Schroeder’s actions were designed to obstruct immigration enforcement.

“This is not just about one case. This is about sending a message to immigration lawyers nationwide,” said Maya Flores, a civil rights attorney based in New York. “The government is attempting to intimidate legal defenders who are already stretched thin and working on behalf of some of the most vulnerable individuals in the country.”

Critics See Political Motive

Many legal experts and immigrant advocacy groups believe this move is politically motivated, especially as the Trump-aligned wing of the administration pushes tougher stances on immigration and legal representation. Several organizations, including the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA), have publicly condemned the DOJ’s action, warning that it could create a “chilling effect” on future pro bono and humanitarian legal efforts.

“This is a blatant misuse of disciplinary mechanisms,” said AILA President Dr. Arman Patel. “Targeting attorneys for doing their job undermines the basic principles of legal defense and due process.”

I'm willing to take the heat': DOJ is trying to punish immigration lawyers taking on Trump's agenda | The Independent

Support from Conservative Circles

Not everyone is critical, however. Conservative commentators and political figures have applauded the DOJ’s decision, arguing that lawyers must be held accountable when they exploit legal loopholes to delay lawful deportations. “The law must be respected, and immigration attorneys should not be immune to consequences when they push frivolous cases,” said Senator Tom Hawley (R-MO).

Legal Community on Alert

Schroeder, who has practiced immigration law for over a decade, has denied any wrongdoing. In a written statement, he said, “I stand by my actions and will continue to fight for my clients with integrity and professionalism.” His legal team is preparing to challenge the sanctions, calling them “an attack on the right to legal representation.”

A formal hearing is expected later this month, and the outcome could set a powerful precedent for how far immigration attorneys can go in defending their clients.


Conclusion

This case is more than just a legal battle—it’s a clash between immigration policy, legal ethics, and the rights of attorneys to represent clients without fear of retaliation. As the legal community watches closely, the results may redefine boundaries for lawyers working in one of America’s most contentious legal arenas.

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