Pennsylvania ​Immigrant Family Unity Project (PAIFUP)

The Pennsylvania ​Immigrant Family Unity Project (PAIFUP) is a collaborative of nonprofit organizations in Pennsylvania formed to achieve universal representation for detained immigrants in removal proceedings in the state. Launched in 2019, PAIFUP is Pennsylvania’s first publicly funded defense counsel project for detained immigrants.

• ​There are no eligibility criteria other than income and a lack of private counsel. We do not exclude individuals based on prior criminal convictions, residency, or any other reason.
• Unlike other legal providers, our high quality, zealous representation is merits-blind. Clients are represented without considering the likelihood that the case will have a particular outcome in the immigration court.
• We are committed to our clients and will represent them throughout their entire case until a final decision is made.  

​​We recognize the leadership of immigrant communities in the fight to create a more just immigration system and strive for our work to reflect the needs and lived experiences of those experiencing deportation and detention. Read more about the project.