Learn about our clinic and the DOJ accreditation process.
Our mission is to provide expert legal assistance, empower individuals, and bridge the access-to-justice gap—one client at a time. Learn how we do this.
How to receive DOJ accreditation
You can become accredited by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) to represent individuals in the immigration process with an approved nonprofit.
Complete the Fundamentals of Immigration Law course
The first requirement for accreditation is to complete a course on the Fundamentals of Immigration Law. BYU’s Continuing Education course meets this requirement.
Complete additional formal training in Immigration Law
Additional training is required beyond the fundamentals course. BYU Continuing Education’s experiential learning blends additional formal training with hands-on service in NOMAS Community Legal Clinics.
Volunteer with a DOJ-recognized nonprofit
Accreditation is only given to those who are tied to a nonprofit organization like NOMAS that is recognized by the U.S. Department of Justice to host accredited representatives.
Demonstrate the character and fitness required to receive accreditation with the DOJ to represent individuals in the immigration process
A good moral character and the qualities necessary to advocate for others are required for accreditation. A cleared criminal background check, letters of recommendation, and a track record of service in the community demonstrate good character and fitness for accreditation.
What volunteering in a Community Legal Clinic looks like
At the NOMAS Community Legal Clinic, we provide free legal assistance to individuals and families in need, including those from underserved migrant, immigrant, and refugee communities. Our structured step-by-step process is designed with an aim for every client to receive personalized guidance and professional legal support. The NOMAS model succeeds through local volunteers and partners. Join our collaborative efforts to bring a legal clinic to your community.
- Walk-ins and appointments are welcome.
- Clients meet with trained volunteers to discuss their legal needs.
- Volunteers gather essential information and assess eligibility for assistance.
- Each case is analyzed by a licensed attorney who determines the best course of action for each client.
- The legal team, alongside volunteers, determines the best course of action for each client.
- Clients receive guidance on legal options, documentation, and next steps.
- Volunteers provide assistance with legal forms, petitions, and supporting documents.
- Help with applications for citizenship, visas, asylum, and more.
- Strive to ensure paperwork is accurate, complete, and filed properly.
- Continued representation is offered throughout the process.
- Provide referrals to other reputable legal service providers in the private, governmental, and nonprofit sectors.
- Connect individuals and families to educational and other services that promote well-being and prosperity.
- Opportunities for clients to become volunteers in legal clinics.
Join our effort to continue making a positive impact.
We strive to provide clients of the legal clinic with a clear understanding of their legal situation. We hope you will find knowledge, experience, and if desired, accreditation to continue serving others in your own community in connection with a local nonprofit.
979
Consults in 2024
561
Cases in 2024
4,300
Volunteer hours in 2024
Testimonials from volunteers and those we’ve helped
Keylla Ortega
Volunteer
“Volunteering has helped me peek into the immigration system, and in some way, what legal work in immigration might look like. It's also great that it counts as internship credit at my university.”
Mairely Pina
Client
"We are grateful for all [NOMAS's] help and dedication, for being very kind and attentive people, for their patience. There are so many wonderful things they do that we can only say thank you. Thank you a thousand times."
Adam Schellenberg
Volunteer
"Our team at the clinic is so supportive that when I have questions, I can always find an answer by consulting with them. This is so much more than a ‘resume-builder.’ I have been learning and internalizing many new skills, skills that will serve me everywhere I go."