LAS VEGAS (KSNV) — Local immigration attorneys at the Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada are helping to address growing concerns among undocumented people who say the current political climate across the U.S. has them worried about their legal status.

“The biggest concern right now is whether certain benefits can still be provided to many people who do not have any legal status, especially DACA, which is a deferred action,” said Chief Counsel for the Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada. Giovanni Alonso for the Immigration Advocacy Project.

Alonso said the legal aid center has received several calls recently from many people who say they fear they or their loved ones may be detained or deported.

“There is definitely a concern about the many people living here without any legal status, given that the incoming administration has previously tried to limit some aid and stated that immigration is the number one priority for them,” Alonso said. .

Alonso says the livelihoods of many families could be in jeopardy in Nevada, where more than 150,000 undocumented people live along with more than 10,000 DACA recipients statewide.

“For example, if the new administration decides to remove some of these protections that it has already granted, that will leave many people in some limbo or without the ability to remain in the United States and support themselves financially. We don’t really know the scope of these proposed changes or how quickly they will happen, but if it’s something like the first time, we’re going more into defensive mode,” Alonso said.

MORE IN THE NEWS 3 | The World Lighting Machine now unlocks in the Zone at Green Valley Farm

For a worst-case scenario, Alonso says it’s best to have a plan of action.

“It is important that information such as emergency contact information, financial information, and information for parents with minor children be kept as an alternative to who will be the guardian if the parent is taken into custody or processed by immigration and deported.”

However, Alonso says people who immigrated to the U.S. have rights, even if they are undocumented, and the Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada is there to help.

“If anyone or anyone in the public has a question about immigration matters, we offer what is called asking a lawyer, which gives you an appointment with a lawyer over the phone to answer your legal questions,” Alonso added.

Anyone with questions or concerns about their legal status can contact the Southern Nevada Legal Assistance Center at 702-386-1070.