1.5 - Model Hearing Program

The Model Hearing Program (MHP) is an educational program coordinated by the Office of Policy to improve the quality of advocacy before the immigration courts, as well as to increase levels of competent and professional pro bono representation. MHP provides hands-on immigration court training and is designed for those with little or no experience in immigration proceedings who are interested in representing indigent immigrants on a pro bono basis in immigration court.

All MHPs share a basic structure. First, substantive training in a specific area of immigration law is provided by the non-profit organization sponsoring the MHP. This is followed by a model hearing presided over by an immigration judge from the local immigration court. The in-court model hearing focuses on practice, procedure, and advocacy skills. Participants commit to a minimal level of pro bono representation throughout the year, and may receive training materials and CLE credit.

Invitations from organizations for EOIR employees to participate in an MHP should be sent to the Office of Policy. For further information please visit EOIR’s website.