Judge Awards Fees in Immigration Work Permit Case

A federal judge ordered $660,500 in attorney fees for Afghan and Somali immigrants following a successful lawsuit.

Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Immigration

Judge Awards Fees in Immigration Work Permit Case

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Should the government pay legal fees when it fails to process work permits in a timely manner?

A Washington federal judge has awarded $660,500 in attorney fees to a class of immigrants from Afghanistan and Somalia. The award follows a court ruling that the government improperly refused to issue work permits to the plaintiffs while they awaited temporary immigration protections.

Why it matters

The ruling concludes a legal challenge centered on the government's refusal to grant work authorization to individuals seeking temporary protections. This decision forces the government to cover the legal costs incurred by the plaintiffs in their pursuit of those employment rights.

The federal judge awarded $660,500 in attorney fees to the class action plaintiffs after granting summary judgment in their favor. The court confirmed the government's denial of work permits to Afghan and Somali applicants was legally invalid.

The players

Federal Court

The judicial body in Washington that presided over the class action lawsuit and issued the final ruling on attorney fees.

The details

The class action lawsuit was initiated by citizens from Afghanistan and Somalia who were blocked from obtaining work permits. The court's grant of summary judgment resolved the dispute in favor of the applicants, leading to the assessment of these legal costs against the government.

October 22, 2026: A federal judge awarded the attorney fees.

Political Context

Opponents of this ruling often argue that granting work permits to individuals pending temporary status creates a pull factor for future migration. Conservative advocacy groups have historically pushed for stricter work authorization standards to ensure that only those with finalized legal status can participate in the labor market.

This judgment confirms that immigrants may successfully challenge government delays regarding work authorization in federal court. While this specific award covers legal fees, the decision establishes a legal precedent that may help future applicants secure their employment rights more efficiently.

The takeaway

This case highlights the significance of judicial oversight in ensuring that government agencies adhere to existing immigration protections regarding labor access. Applicants in similar situations can utilize the court system to challenge administrative denials of essential employment benefits.