Cheryl David, Esq. Gives Presentation at Practising Law Institute

In December 2025, immigration attorneys from across the country gathered for the 58th Annual Immigration and Naturalization Institute, a flagship continuing legal education program hosted by Practising Law Institute. The two-day event took place on December 3–4 in New York City, with a live webcast option that allowed practitioners nationwide to participate.

Among the featured speakers was Cheryl David, who served as a panelist for a 75-minute session titled Deportation Defense: Practical Strategies in a Time of Significant Change. The program addressed one of the most pressing challenges facing immigration lawyers today: defending clients in removal proceedings amid constant legal and procedural shifts.

The panel focused on practical, courtroom-ready strategies rather than abstract theory. Cheryl and another panelist walked attendees through trial preparation in the current enforcement environment, including how to effectively handle Notices to Appear, bond proceedings, and pretrial motions. The discussion emphasized the importance of understanding not just the law, but also how immigration judges operate in practice. Attendees learned how to evaluate a judge’s preferences and courtroom expectations and use that insight to shape a stronger, more tailored defense strategy.

Another key focus of the session was criminal removability. Panelists examined how criminal issues intersect with immigration law and discussed strategies for pursuing relief, with attention to recent legal developments and emerging trends. The session also highlighted best practices for building a clear and persuasive record, a critical step for both trial success and potential appeals.

The goal of the presentation was simple but essential: to equip immigration attorneys with realistic tools they can use immediately to advocate for clients facing deportation. At a time when immigration law continues to evolve rapidly, the session underscored the need for careful preparation, strategic thinking, and adaptability.

Cheryl David’s participation in this nationally recognized program reflects her deep experience in deportation defense and her ongoing commitment to staying at the forefront of immigration law and practice.