What role does OPLA play in the federal enforcement of immigration laws?

The role of the Office of the Principal Legal Advisor (OPLA) is primarily to advise U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on legal matters and provide court representation in immigration proceedings. OPLA attorneys serve as legal counsel to ICE, offering guidance on the interpretation and application of immigration laws and policies. This includes representing the government in removal proceedings before immigration judges and the Board of Immigration Appeals.

OPLA does not represent private individuals in immigration court, nor does it have the authority to set immigration laws, as that function is typically reserved for Congress. Additionally, OPLA's scope is federal, focusing on matters at the national level rather than assisting exclusively with state-level cases. The unique position OPLA holds enables it to shape legal strategies that align with federal immigration enforcement priorities effectively.