Justice shouldn't depend on a bank balance: Aparecida's asylum application

I'm facing an asylum application. My hearing is scheduled for November, and the filing fees and the lawyer's retainer come to $150. I have been told by three legal-aid offices that their waiting list is longer than my deadline. I have all of my paperwork ready, and my caseworker at the Duque de Caxias Community Legal Centre has confirmed that my case is valid. If I miss the deadline I could lose my right to stay with my family and my job. My children were born here and this is the only home they know. I'll share any non-sensitive updates as the case moves along. The money goes to the immigration attorney's trust account and the court filing office. I'll upload receipts with sensitive details removed. Where the $150 goes: • Filing and biometrics fees: $110 • Court-appointed interpreter and travel: $25 • Certified translations and document copies: $15 If you're reading this, thank you.