On his Facebook page, undocumented immigrant Sergio Garcia posted this message: “With tears in my eyes I’m happy to report I am being admitted to the bar, thank God! This one is for all of you who dare to dream and by doing so change the world! Love you all! History was made today!” The Cal Northern School of Law is where this hopeful immigrant studied to better his life’s position.
Sergio Garcia was found to have met all the requirements needed to receive a law license. In a landmark case that could influence similar cases pending in New York and Florida by spotlighting the role state lawmakers can play in immigration issues, according to USC law professor Jody Armour, Garcia, a Mexican immigrant, was admitted to the state bar even though he lacks legal status.
Sergio Garcia, 36, told reporters that “It’s been something I’ve been working on for the last five years of my life, almost.”
According to 89.3 KPCC, Southern California Public Radio, The state Supreme Court granted him admission to the State Bar, but he will have to practice independently because his lack of legal status bars law firms from hiring him. California’s Supreme Court ruled Thursday that no state law or public policy should stop Sergio Garcia or anyone like him from obtaining a law license in the state.
CNN reported that The Obama administration was originally in opposition to Garcia’s admission to the bar, stating that federal law demanded that legislation be enacted granting an undocumented immigrant the right to practice.
This case could very well set precedent.
California State Bar President Luis J. Rodriguez said in a written statement, “With today’s ruling, the California Supreme Court reaffirms the Committee of Bar Examiners’ finding as not a political decision but rather one grounded in the law.”
An immigration attorney based in Southern California, Víctor Nieblas, reported to CNN that the court’s decision could affect hundreds of other professionals in the United States who are seeking a license.
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