LEXINGTON, Ky. – A surge in demand for immigration legal services has been reported in Kentucky as concerns mount over potential mass deportations under the incoming administration. According to local immigration attorney Heather Hadi, there has been a striking 60% increase in requests for her services since President-elect Donald Trump announced his intent to deport millions of undocumented immigrants.
Hadi, whose husband is undocumented, emphasized that this issue is deeply personal. “One out of every 15 U.S. families are in a mixed immigration status household, and I happen to be one of those,” she stated. The recent discussions around deportation have left many in the immigrant community feeling apprehensive. “This is a shock to the community, and there is a lot of fear,” Hadi remarked. The emotional toll extends even to those with legal status, who are increasingly worried about their safety amid the growing uncertainty.
Mizari Suarez, the executive director of Neighbors Immigration Clinic, has also noticed the rising anxiety within the community. As someone who was once undocumented herself, Suarez understands the complexity of the situation. “We need to help people,” she stated, explaining that many families face overwhelming challenges navigating the immigration system. The clinic, a non-profit organization, has been providing crucial legal services and expects the demand for such support to escalate in the months ahead.
Suarez noted that the need for immigration attorneys in Kentucky is pressing, urging professionals to step forward in light of the current climate. In response to the mounting concerns, Hadi advised those entering the country on visas to remain vigilant about their status and avoid overstaying their permits to prevent legal complications.
The fear and uncertainty experienced by the immigrant community, both documented and undocumented, underline a significant social concern in Lexington and across the Commonwealth. The situation continues to evolve as the new administration prepares to take office, leaving many residents hopeful for resolution and clarity in the future.
