Chief Justice Issues Statement on Immigration Enforcement at Courthouses

Today, California Chief Justice Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye issued the following statement:

President Trump’s threat of mass arrests of undocumented immigrants could have a profound effect on access to justice in our state.

For more than two years I have requested that courthouses be designated 'sensitive locations,' along with schools, churches, and hospitals.

I am repeating this request once again, so that victims or witnesses to crimes can safely come to our courts to seek justice.

Enforcement of immigration laws that upset the delicate checks and balances set up by our Founders undermines our democracy. Our three branches of government are co-equal; our local, state, and federal governments have overlapping authority. Each branch and each entity should take care not to act in a way that undermines the trust of those who rely on us to uphold the rule of law.

Related:

Governor Newsom Statement on Proposed Federal Immigration Raids | June 21, 2019

Chief Justice Cantil-Sakauye Objects to Immigration Enforcement Tactics at California Courthouses | March 16, 2017