Minnesota bar groups back lawsuit challenging ICE surge

The Minnesota State Bar Association, Hennepin County Bar Association, and Ramsey County Bar Association have filed an amicus curiae brief supporting plaintiffs in a lawsuit over the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s immigration crackdown.

The brief was also co-filed by the Minnesota Women Lawyers, Minnesota Asian Pacific American Bar Association, Minnesota Association of Black Lawyers, Minnesota Hispanic Bar Association, and the Somali American Bar Association.

“This is a moment for solidarity in Minnesota and among lawyers. We may not always have the same political views, but as attorneys we all swore to uphold the rule of law and defend Constitutional rights. This brief is a way to stand up for principles that are at the very core of our profession,” said Maya Missaghi, president of the Ramsey County Bar Association.

The plaintiffs, the state of Minnesota, the city of Minneapolis, and the city of St. Paul, filed a federal lawsuit against the Department of Homeland Security which is currently pending in the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota. They challenge the constitutionality of “Operation Metro Surge.”

“As lawyers, we have a responsibility to speak when actions raise serious concerns about civil liberties and the rule of law. This amicus brief reflects the legal profession’s commitment to ensuring that our justice system remains fair, accessible, and grounded in constitutional principles,” said Tom Pack, president of the Minnesota State Bar Association.

The brief from the bar associations emphasizes key legal profession priorities, including safeguarding civil liberties, ensuring access to justice, and upholding the rule of law. They emphasize that their participation as amici is to support the court as it considers the case’s broader legal and institutional implications.

“Every Minnesota lawyer takes an oath to uphold the United States and Minnesota Constitutions. Upholding the rule of law and constitutional protections are fundamental promises made to each person in our country. When governmental action instills fear and deters people from engaging with government, reporting crimes, appearing in court, or seeking legal counsel, the justice system itself is undermined. This brief reflects the bar associations’ commitment to protecting access to justice, equal protection under the law, and ensuring that government action is constrained by constitutional limits,” said Jessica Klander, president of the Hennepin County Bar Association.