Iowa Migrant Movement For Justice – Des Moines, IA

Legal Justice for Immigrants and Refugees

Iowa Migrant Movement for Justice (Iowa MMJ) is a statewide non-profit legal service and advocacy organization based in Des Moines, Iowa. Formed in 2020 through the merger of Iowa Justice For Our Neighbors and the American Friends Service Committee Iowa, the organization carries a legacy of over 45 years of service. Located at 1111 9th Street (with operations also at 2024 Forest Avenue), Iowa MMJ is dedicated to providing high-quality, affordable immigration legal services to low-income immigrants and refugees. The organization envisions an Iowa where everyone, regardless of immigration status, is treated with dignity and has access to justice. If you need to find a lawyer for an asylum claim or DACA renewal but cannot afford private counsel, Iowa MMJ offers a lifeline. Their team of experienced attorneys and legal staff works tirelessly to keep families together and protect individuals from deportation. If you urgently need an attorney because of an enforcement action or complex immigration hurdle, contacting Iowa MMJ is a critical first step towards empowerment and safety.

Vital Legal Services

Iowa MMJ focuses exclusively on immigration law, offering a range of services to eligible clients. Key practice areas include:

• Humanitarian Relief: Representing survivors of domestic violence (VAWA), trafficking (T-Visas), and other crimes (U-Visas). They also assist with asylum claims for those fleeing persecution.
• Family-Based Immigration: Assisting with family petitions to reunite loved ones, adjustment of status (Green Cards), and consular processing.
• DACA Renewals: Helping Dreamers maintain their protected status and work authorization.
• Naturalization: guiding permanent residents through the process of becoming U.S. citizens.
• Removal Defense: Providing legal representation for individuals facing deportation proceedings in immigration court.
• Community Education: Conducting ‘Know Your Rights’ workshops and legal clinics to empower immigrant communities.

A Movement for Change

Iowa Migrant Movement for Justice is more than just a legal clinic; it is a movement led by immigrant and refugee voices. The organization combines direct legal representation with community organizing to advocate for systemic change. They are part of the national Immigration Law and Justice Network. Services are generally provided on a free or low-cost basis to those who qualify based on income. The organization operates in multiple languages, including Spanish, Arabic, French, and Swahili, ensuring accessibility for diverse populations. When you seek help from Iowa MMJ, you are joining a community that stands in solidarity with you.

Community-Based Location

The organization’s Des Moines presence is historically rooted near the river and the Drake neighborhood. While the input address is 1111 9th Street, clients often visit their primary legal clinic location at 2024 Forest Avenue. Both locations are central to the communities they serve. The offices are designed to be safe, welcoming spaces for all clients. Accessibility is a priority, with services often available remotely or at satellite clinics across the state to reach rural areas. Public transportation is readily available, making it easy for clients without cars to access essential legal aid.