QA Meet the attorney at the center of S.F.s response to ICE

Since early June, ICE has arrested over two dozen individuals in San Francisco, primarily at immigration courts and local field offices. Milli Atkinson, director of the Immigrant Legal Defense Program, stated that arrests have shifted from being rare to occurring daily, which significantly complicates access to legal representation. Many of those detained are transported to centers far from their homes, making it difficult for them to engage with legal advisors. Atkinson noted that individuals without legal representation are much less likely to succeed in their immigration cases. The surge in arrests has also led to increased panic among immigrant communities, as false reports of ICE presence have become common.

This misinformation has put additional pressure on legal resources, forcing organizations to focus on managing public anxiety while providing accurate information about rights. Atkinson described the emotional toll on attorneys, many of whom struggle to offer solid legal advice amid rapidly changing policies. The situation underscores the urgent need for reliable legal support as the Trump administration continues its push for mass deportations.