Hays County seeks grant for immigrant defense program

In line with efforts to reform the criminal justice system in Hays County, County Commissioners July 30 approved submitting a $342,720 grant application for a pilot program for noncitizens.

The grant application will fund a consultation project that will bring assistance to defense attorneys in Hays County to fulfill obligations set by the Padilla v. Kentucky Supreme Court case.

Per the law, criminal defense attorneys are required to advise illegal residents on immigration-related matters such as pleas and deportation.

Under the program, defense attorneys will submit a request for technical assistance to the myPadilla team which will provide insight and recommendations on the case.