We provide federal immigration legal representation, comprehensive support and coordinated access to community resources to individuals from Rhode Island in immigration detention.
RIIRI is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing federal immigration legal representation and comprehensive support to individuals who were detained by ICE while residing in Rhode Island and who are facing removal proceedings before an Immigration Court.
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Access to justice and due process
We provide reliable information, dedicated federal immigration legal representation, and comprehensive support that strengthens our clients’ ability to exercise and protect their rights.
Our Mission
Access to justice and due process for detained immigrants.
The mission of the Rhode Island Immigrant Rights Initiative (RIIRI) is to promote access to justice and due process for detained immigrants who were residing in Rhode Island at the time of their detention by ICE and are facing removal proceedings before Immigration Courts.
We pursue this mission by providing reliable information, dedicated federal immigration legal representation, and comprehensive support that strengthens our clients’ ability to exercise and protect their rights.
General Objective
Meaningful access to due process.
To promote meaningful access to due process and strengthen the protection of the rights of detained immigrants who were residing in Rhode Island at the time of their detention by ICE through specialized federal immigration legal representation, comprehensive support, and coordination of community resources that promote stability during and after immigration proceedings.
Specific Objectives
Provide high-quality federal legal representation to immigrants in detention or removal proceedings.
Facilitate access to the immigration justice system through guidance, document preparation, and legal support.
Reduce social, emotional, and family-related vulnerabilities that may affect effective participation in legal proceedings.
Strengthen coordination among legal, social, healthcare, and community systems to remove barriers to essential services.
Promote community support networks that contribute to the stability of immigrants and their families.
Develop management, monitoring, and evaluation systems that promote institutional quality, transparency, and sustainability.
Our Services
Support at every stage.
A comprehensive model that addresses the legal, social, and community needs of detained immigrants with ties to Rhode Island.
Federal Legal Representation & Immigration System Navigation
Initial case assessment
Legal analysis
Representation before Immigration Court
Preparation and filing of immigration documents
Immigration bond requests
Coordination with criminal defense attorneys
ICE reporting requirements
Visits to detention facilities
Appeals before the BIA
Federal actions, including habeas corpus proceedings
Community Stabilization & Comprehensive Support
Virtual Spanish-language support groups
Identification of mental health needs and referrals
Translation and interpretation
Post-release support
Fraud prevention guidance
Ongoing support throughout the legal process
Resource Coordination & Access to Services
Mental health and healthcare referrals
Health insurance guidance
Driver’s licenses and identification documents
Tax assistance coordination
Guidance regarding public benefits
Administrative procedures
Domestic violence service referrals
Coordination with community partners
Safe return and relocation support
Our Approach
A comprehensive model centered on the person.
We combine legal services, community stabilization, and connections to support networks to help clients participate effectively in their legal proceedings.
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Human Rights Advocacy
Dignity and fundamental rights for every person.
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Access to Justice
Removing barriers to exercising rights.
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Integrity
Ethical, transparent, and responsible practice.
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Commitment
Dedication, professionalism, and sensitivity.
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Equity
Meaningful access to counsel and resources.
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Collaboration
Partnerships that expand our impact.
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Professionalism
High legal, technical, and administrative standards.
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Compassion
Respectful, person-centered support.
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Empathy
Listening with respect and without judgment.
Our Story
Commitment to defending immigrants’ rights.
Our Team
Ann Elise McCaffrey, Esq. is the director of RIIRI. Elise graduated from the City University of New York School of Law in 2012. She has practiced immigration law since 2013. Elise’s legal practice has focused on removal defense for individuals in and out of detention, complex criminal immigration matters, citizenship, and securing release from detention through habeas corpus petitions. Elise speaks Spanish.
Sandra Escobar is the Program Director at RIIRI. Sandra is a Community Development Professional and Social Worker from Colombia. Sandra is an Attorney and graduate La Gran Colombia University, and holds a Master’s degree in Political Studies from Pontificia Universidad Javeriana. She has extensive experience in social inclusion, human rights, rights restoration, university teaching, public policy, land use planning, civic participation, and services for vulnerable populations. Sandra speaks Spanish.
The beginning
Since 2013, attorney Elise McCaffrey has dedicated her legal practice to representing immigrants in detention and removal proceedings, providing legal support with a strong commitment to pro bono representation.
A needed response
The absence of a specialized program in Rhode Island led to the creation of RIIRI as an organization providing legal representation, comprehensive support, and coordinated access to resources.
An interdisciplinary model
RIIRI integrates legal services, community stabilization, and support networks to protect clients’ lives, well-being, and stability.
Our Vision
A more just, humane, and accessible immigration system.
We aim to defend immigrants' rights, through high-quality legal representation, stabilization support and coordinated access to resources.
Your support goes to legal support and representation, case expenses, funds for telephone calls for detained individuals, and support for RIIRI clients released from custody. Your contribution helps RIIRI provide trusted representation to Rhode Islanders who cannot afford it.
