Asylum
The Immigration Legal Assistance Program of Lutheran Social Services (LSS) in Worcester, Massachusetts, is home to the Political Asylum Legal Assistance Project (PALAP). The mission of PALAP is to provide legal representation and advice to asylum seekers in Massachusetts who could not otherwise afford legal counsel. PALAP staff attorneys assist asylum seekers to navigate the legal process, to reunite with their families, and to start a new life in the United States.
What is asylum?
A noncitizen may seek asylum in the United States if he or she fears persecution in her country of origin due to her race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group. For example, some individuals flee because their government has targeted them for being in the political opposition. Others flee because their particular tribe is subject to ethnic cleansing. Some women flee because they do not want to be forced into marriage, female circumcision, or wearing a hijab.
If granted political asylum, individuals have the right to remain in the United States and the right to family reunification with certain family members. Asylum also creates an eventual pathway to U.S. citizenship.
Who is eligible for our legal services?
Priority is placed on representing clients who cannot otherwise afford legal counsel. In an effort to support the private bar, we provide clients with a list of private attorneys if clients do not meet our eligibility guidelines. In determining financial eligibility, debt or special circumstances, such as a severe illness, are also taken into consideration.
How can I learn more about asylum?
For more information about our asylum program, please click here. Also, please do not hesitate to contact our program directly at (508) 754-1121, ext. 419, if you have questions or would like to make an appointment.
How do I make an appointment to meet with a lawyer?
Please contact our legal office at (508) 754-1121, ext. 417, to schedule an asylum screening.
Special Initiatives
PALAP recently started the LGBT Human Rights Legal Protection Project to serve gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender individuals who fear persecution on account of their sexual orientation. For more information about this project, please click here.
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