During her ACLU EJA Fellowship, Miriam Leah Mars focused on a compelling research project: enhancing legal resource access for limited English proficiency immigrants in detention.

Miriam notes, "This project has given me intriguing insights into the ACLU's lawsuit considerations."

The process of shaping a viable lawsuit has proven captivating, requiring intricate puzzle pieces to align for a successful outcome. Team discussions revealed factors like selecting favorable jurisdictions, identifying suitable plaintiffs, navigating legal constraints, and garnering support from partner organizations.

Miriam’s research concentrated on identifying optimal jurisdictions. This revolved around the "Accardi" principle, stemming from a 1950s Supreme Court case. It dictates that administrative agencies must follow their rules, allowing citizens to litigate non-compliance. However, various circuit courts interpret this differently.

In addition to contributing to legal research, Miriam found fulfillment in assisting with a lawsuit aimed at addressing the plight of families separated at the border during the Trump era.

“While I’m guessing many of you know about family separation, what’s not making the headlines today is that the government is actually still fighting against paying damages to previously separated families for the emotional trauma that they were put through during separation. In my opinion, this is the least the government can do to compensate these families for their suffering. That’s why I’m proud to be working on the side of one of these families with the ACLU, even when I’m sometimes just researching an adjacent point of civil procedure!”

Lastly, attached is a photo of Miriam with her mom proudly marching in the NYC Pride Parade with the ACLU and the New York Civil Liberties Union!