Congrats to fellow Badger Law grad Raphael Choi, currently the ICE Chief Counsel in Arlington. Our careers have been intertwined in a number of ways. As an Assistant Chief Counsel in NY, Raphael was the DHS attorney in the first case I heard as a U.S. Immigration Judge back in 2003. My colleagues at the NY Immigration Court had told me in advance that Raphael was one of the best in skills, demeanor, and commitment to fairness and due process.
As a Judge in Arlington, I always appreciated Raphael’s work and leadership, first as an Assistant Chief Counsel and then as Chief Counsel. During my tenure, he consistently took an effective, practical, humane approach to the prosecutor’s role. He also gave the ACCs working for him a wide range of discretion in settling cases, waiving appeals, and offering PD. The Arlington OCC attracted some truly top flight legal talent, a number of whom went on to important positions at DHS, EOIR, DOJ, the Department of State, and the private sector.
Congrats again and good luck, Raphael. Due Process Forever!
PWS
08-08-17
I had a similarly favorable impression of Raphael back when he was a trial attorney in NYC. I join you in congratulating Judge Choi and wishing him all the best.
Thanks, Jeffrey!
Everywhere that Judge Choi has been in his career, his scholarship, calm demeanor, outstanding leadership, wry sense of humor, and, perhaps most important, sensitivity and respect for all with whom he deals have been universally recognized. I believe that he is someone who will always put due process and fairness “at the top of the list.”
Best,
P