2026 Equal Justice Conference

This panel will offer a practical look at the realities of filing emergency habeas petitions in federal court on behalf of detained immigrants. Featuring pro bono and legal services attorneys who have recently drafted and argued these petitions, the discussion will unpack the time-sensitive nature of habeas litigation, explore staffing models that support rapid response, and highlight common procedural and strategic hurdles. Attendees will gain insight into how teams navigate deadlines, coordinate across organizations, and advocate effectively under pressure in an evolving legal space.