The high court will decide whether an illegal immigrant can be admitted to the Florida Bar. This week, the Florida Supreme Court declared high-priority status for the case of Jose Godinez-Samperio, who would have been a practicing lawyer in Florida a year ago if only credentials mattered.
Can an illegal immigrant be admitted to the Florida Bar?
palmbeachpost.com
by Opinion Staff
Mr. Godinez-Samperio was an Eagle Scout and high-school valedictorian, and graduated from Florida State University’s College of Law with good grades and strong backing from professors. He is 25 years old. He came to the United States at age 9 from Mexico. His parents had visas and overstayed them. Though Mr. Godinez-Samperio himself committed no crime, his status remains that he is undocumented.
The Florida Bar Board of Examiners has asked for a legal opinion as to whether the board can admit Mr. Godinez-Samperio, who passed the bar exam last summer. His attorney, former FSU president and law school dean Sandy D’Alemberte, argues that the board has no authority to seek such an opinion, because the board is trying to attach a new standard for admission.
Mr. D’Alemberte argues that his client is qualified in every way the bar requires. Mr. Godinez-Samperio has registered for the Selective Service and has an IRS number.
This is yet another case that shows the need for federal immigration reform. We think the bar should admit Mr. Godinez-Samperio. What do you think? Can an illegal immigrant be admitted to the Florida Bar? Leave a comment or click on the link below to take our poll.
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