A Vancouver woman who missed a court date necessary for her visa found herself in a conundrum that affects many immigrants who live here.

Unlike in criminal court, those going through immigration proceedings aren’t entitled to a court-appointed lawyer at government expense. And, until recently, Vancouver residents have fallen through cracks in the legal aid system.

“Since I entered the country, I’ve been going to court. Normally, when I’ve gone to court, I haven’t had legal representation, neither private nor nonprofit,” the woman said speaking in Spanish, translated to English through an app.

Those living in Vancouver usually report to immigration court in Portland, but most legal aid is based in Seattle and Tacoma. And they aren’t eligible for legal aid funded by Oregon.

“Clark Count

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