Immigration

Why California Counties Are Increasing Funding for Immigrant Legal Defense in 2026

Several counties and cities across California are increasing their financial support for immigrants facing deportation, as federal immigration enforcement grows more aggressive. Local officials say the goal is to ensure fair legal representation for residents who are deeply tied to their communities but lack access to an attorney.

San Francisco, Alameda County, Santa Clara County, Los Angeles, and Richmond are among the jurisdictions investing new funding into legal defense programs. San Francisco recently approved an additional $3.5 million to expand its immigration defense fund, while Alameda County doubled its budget by adding another $3.5 million.

Local leaders argue that these investments protect the stability of the region. In Santa Clara County, where immigrants make up roughly 40% of the population, officials emphasize that these residents work, pay taxes, raise families, and contribute to the local economy. Supporting them, they say, directly supports the community’s well-being.

Unlike in criminal court, immigrants facing deportation are not entitled to a government-appointed attorney. As a result, many appear before immigration judges without any legal support, despite facing life-changing consequences. Local defense funds aim to close that gap and prevent families from being torn apart.

This trend began years ago. New York City launched the first major immigrant legal defense program in 2013, followed by San Francisco in 2014. A regional study later found that immigrants represented by nonprofit attorneys won 83% of their cases — far higher than those who faced court alone.

California eventually created its own immigrant assistance program, known as “One California,” to support nonprofits offering legal aid. While the program restricts funding for people with certain serious felony convictions, it remains a significant source of statewide support.

Now, with stricter federal policies returning, cities and counties are stepping up again. Santa Clara County has increased its allocation to $13 million to support rapid response teams, legal defense groups, education efforts, and community outreach. Meanwhile, the mayors of San Francisco, Oakland, and San Jose recently launched a private fundraising initiative aiming to gather $10 million for immigrant families affected by detentions.

Some elected officials in Alameda County are even contributing money from their discretionary budgets, framing the effort as part of a broader fight for dignity, rights, and the protection of local immigrant communities.

As immigration crackdowns intensify, these locally funded defense programs have become a vital lifeline for thousands of residents who risk appearing alone in a complex and unforgiving legal system.