Monday, August 18, 2025

DOJ Needs Asylum Judges 8-18-25

The Department of Justice's Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) is actively seeking to hire Immigration Judges and Assistant Chief Immigration Judges to help process immigration cases, which includes asylum claims.  

Here's why and what you need to know:

The need for judges

·       Significant backlog: The US immigration courts face a massive backlog of cases, including a large number of asylum applications.

·       Impact on the system: This backlog puts a strain on the entire immigration system and necessitates additional judicial resources to ensure fair and timely processing of cases. 

How to become an immigration judge

1.    Meet the educational and licensing requirements: You will need a J.D. or equivalent degree from an accredited law school and active bar membership in any US state or territory.

2.    Gain experience: You'll need at least seven years of post-bar legal experience, with a focus on immigration or administrative law, including experience with litigation or adjudication.

3.    Apply through USAJobs: Openings are advertised on the USAJobs website.

4.    Go through the hiring process: This includes submitting application materials, potentially written assessments, interviews, and background checks.

5.    Be appointed by the Attorney General: Final appointments are made by the Department of Justice. 

Important Notes:

·       Residency Requirements: Applicants for Immigration Judge positions must be US citizens or nationals and meet specific residency requirements.

·       Federal Hiring Freeze: A hiring freeze for federal jobs has been in effect as of January 20, 2025, but may have limited exemptions.

·       High caseloads and complex issues: Immigration judges are expected to manage high caseloads efficiently and handle complex legal issues related to immigration law. 

The EOIR website is a valuable resource for potential applicants, offering information about careers at the EOIR and details on the hiring process for Immigration Judges and Appellate Immigration Judges. 

Norb Leahy, Dunwoody GA Tea Party Leader

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