10.2 - Definition of Practitioner and Recognized Organization

The term “practitioner” refers to an alien’s attorney or representative, as defined in 8 C.F.R. §§ 1001.1(f),  1001.1(j), and 1292.1(a)-(b), respectively.  The term “representative” refers to non-attorneys authorized to practice before the Immigration Courts and the Board of Immigration Appeals, including law students and law graduates, reputable individuals, accredited representatives, accredited officials, and persons formerly authorized to practice.  See 8 C.F.R. §§ 1001.1(j), 1292.1(a)-(b).  See also Chapter 2 (Appearances before the Immigration Court).

The term “recognized organization” is defined as a non-profit, federal tax-exempt, religious, charitable, social service, or similar organization established in the United States that has been recognized by the Assistant Director for Policy or the Assistant Director’s designee to represent aliens through accredited representatives before DHS only or before the Board, the Immigration Courts, and DHS.  See 8 C.F.R. § 1292.11.