Which type of legal matters does OPLA primarily handle?

The Office of the Principal Legal Advisor (OPLA) primarily focuses on immigration law matters, which encompasses a range of responsibilities such as enforcement actions and litigation related to immigration issues. This includes representing the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in immigration court proceedings, defending the agency’s decisions in immigration-related litigation, and offering legal guidance regarding the enforcement of immigration laws.

OPLA plays a crucial role in navigating the complexities of immigration law, ensuring adherence to legal standards and protecting the interests of the U.S. government in immigration cases. This emphasis on immigration law is what distinguishes OPLA's work from areas like family law, criminal law, or general civil law, which are outside its jurisdiction and focus. Understanding OPLA's core responsibilities helps in recognizing the significant impact of immigration law enforcement and litigation on the U.S. legal system.