In a recent episode (video above), American talk-show host John Oliver pointed out that immigrants to the US who cannot afford lawyers must represent themselves when fighting deportation. As a result, only thirty-seven percent of defendants are represented by lawyers.
This rule also applies to children. Which means even a two-year-old facing deportation must fight their own case in court.
Oliver made a joke out of it, but obviously his point was completely serious. As he said, “You cannot let a two-year-old be unsupervised in court. You can’t even let a two-year-old be unsupervised in a bouncy castle. They’re going to come out covered in glitter, holding a broken beer bottle and a dead bird.”
A better idea, according to him: make a courtroom drama series for TV, filled with children. And watch the outcome.
Buy an annual Scroll Membership to support independent journalism and get special benefits.

Our journalism is for everyone. But you can get special privileges by buying an annual Scroll Membership. Sign up today!