The Criminal Defense Immigration Project (CDIP) of the New York State Defenders Association defends the legal, constitutional and human rights of immigrants at risk of mandatory detention and deportation for virtually any interaction with the criminal justice system. CDIP seeks to minimize deportation and detention under current laws for immigrants facing criminal charges or subsequent deportation. CDIP serves as a legal resource and training center for criminal defense attorneys, criminal justice and immigrant advocates, and immigrants fighting against deportation and detention. CDIP also serves to support community-based advocacy against unjust immigration laws and their aggressive enforcement and provides legal assistance to immigrants challenging their detention or removal order in federal court.