What is the primary function of the Office of Principal Legal Advisors (OPLA)?

The primary function of the Office of Principal Legal Advisors (OPLA) is to represent the government in immigration removal cases. OPLA serves as the legal counsel for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), specifically focusing on matters related to immigration enforcement. This involves taking a proactive role in immigration proceedings, such as removal hearings and appeals, where they present the government's case and argue for the deportation of individuals who violate U.S. immigration laws.

OPLA’s responsibilities include preparing legal documents, conducting litigation in immigration courts, and offering legal advice on the interpretation of immigration laws and policies. Their role is crucial in ensuring the effective application and enforcement of immigration laws within the legal framework established by Congress.

This focus is significant because while individuals may have rights in immigration proceedings, OPLA's mandate is not to defend aliens but rather to uphold the interests of the government. Their work ensures that there are thorough legal processes in place to adjudicate cases involving immigration enforcement, aligning with broader immigration policies and goals set by the government.