Syrian nationals looking for help found some relief last month. On September 15th, 2012 a Pro Bono clinic was held at The Charlotte School of Law in Charlotte, NC. This clinic was co-sponsored by United for a Free Syria, The Law Office of Ronald J. Shook, Kelli Y. Allen Immigration, and Kuck Immigration. The clinic was a great success, drawing individuals from as far away as West Virginia. The clinic focused on the Secretary of Homeland Security’s “Temporary Protected Status” program. Temporary Protected status is a designation that may be granted to the nationals of countries that have been seriously affected by civil war or natural disaster. These individuals must currently be in the United States. Recipients of the Temporary Protected Status designation receive permission to live and work in the United States for a period of time. While the deadline for TPS applications for this year has already expired, the Secretary of Homeland security is currently considering renewing the TPS program for Syrian nationals beginning next year. Another clinic is currently being planned, and Syrians who missed this year’s application deadline may be eligible to apply next year.
Special thanks should be given to the following individuals, who ensured that this clinic was a success:
- Participating Attorneys: Kelli Allen, Andres Lopez, and Ron Shook
- Law Student Volunteers: Bianca Sahni, Rebecca Gabroy, Barbie Kolatis, Sarah Ahmad, and Timor Brik
- Marketing Volunteers: Melissa Ursi, and Muna Jondy