Immigration Success Story
A Second Chance: How Ying Stafford Helped Shanado Phillips Achieve U.S. Citizenship
In the often complex and rigid world of immigration law, there are stories that shine as beacons of hope and second chances. One such story is that of Shanado Phillips, a Jamaica-born man who, despite a troubled past, is now a United States citizen. Thanks to the hard work and dedication of solo practitioner Ying Stafford, Phillips was able to get an illegal re-entry charge dismissed in federal court—despite having committed two armed robberies earlier in his life.
Phillips’ case was far from straightforward. In fact, it started with skepticism from the court. Federal Judge Raymond Dearie, of the Eastern District of New York, was initially doubtful about Phillips' appeal to avoid deportation, calling it “predictable and unimpressive.” However, as the case progressed and Phillips’ personal story unfolded, the judge had a change of heart.
After hearing Phillips’ testimony, Judge Dearie was surprised by the man’s candor, maturity, and the obvious decency that came through in his words. The judge noted that Phillips’ presentation in court was “credible, convincing, and in all respects, impressive.” In his ruling, Dearie emphasized the “unusual and outstanding equities” that weighed in Phillips' favor, ultimately leading him to dismiss the indictment for illegal re-entry.
A Troubling Past
Shanado Phillips’ journey to this point had been anything but easy. In 1996, Phillips was convicted of two armed robberies and sentenced to nine years in prison. After serving his time, he was deported back to Jamaica. However, Phillips’ story didn’t end there. In 2006, he re-entered the U.S. illegally, believing that his extended stay in the country meant he was a citizen. Unfortunately, this misunderstanding led to his arrest in 2013 on the charge of illegal re-entry.
While many might have seen Phillips' past as an insurmountable barrier, Ying Stafford saw an opportunity for redemption. As a solo practitioner, Stafford frequently represents indigent defendants in high-stakes federal capital cases. She learned about Phillips' case through conversations with individuals held in federal detention. When Stafford spoke with Phillips and his family, she found his story to be compelling and decided to take on his case pro bono.
A Misunderstanding of Citizenship
One of the key aspects of Phillips’ situation was a misunderstanding regarding his citizenship status. Despite living in the U.S. for several years, Phillips had never sought formal citizenship. His parents had obtained permanent residency, and Phillips assumed he was automatically a U.S. citizen after living in the country for an extended period of time.
Stafford learned that Phillips never applied for citizenship, even though he was automatically entitled to it after five years of residency. He had been unaware of the legal process required to formally obtain citizenship. In fact, when he was arrested for the armed robberies, Phillips thought that anyone who had lived in the U.S. long enough would automatically be considered a citizen.
A Turnaround in Court
With Stafford's unwavering support, Phillips presented his case in front of the court. The testimony he delivered was not only convincing but transformative. The judge, who had initially doubted Phillips' appeal, came to see the man in a new light. The judge acknowledged that Phillips displayed maturity, decency, and honesty throughout the proceedings. These factors played a significant role in the judge's decision to dismiss the charge of illegal re-entry.
This decision opened the door for Phillips to finally pursue the citizenship he had long been entitled to but had never formally claimed. Through Stafford’s commitment and the judge's willingness to reconsider his stance, Phillips was given a second chance at life in the U.S.
A Story of Redemption and Advocacy
Phillips’ case serves as a reminder that even individuals with a complicated past deserve a second chance. It also speaks to the importance of understanding the full story before passing judgment. In Phillips’ case, it was not just about his past crimes but about the circumstances that led him to make those decisions and the growth he experienced afterward.
Ying Stafford’s dedication to Phillips’ case exemplifies the profound impact that a compassionate and thorough defense can have on someone's life. It is a powerful reminder that justice is not always about following strict legal guidelines but about taking the time to understand a person’s full story and offering them the opportunity to redeem themselves.
Through this case, Shanado Phillips now has the chance to build a future as a U.S. citizen—something he never thought possible. It is a victory not just for Phillips, but for the ideals of fairness, redemption, and the belief that people can change when given the chance.
See link to article: https://www.law.com/newyorklawjournal/almID/1202734368587
