This Operating Policies and Procedures Memorandum (OPPM) provides guidance and suggestions for adjudicating cases where the respondent is an unaccompanied alien child (defined later). The suggestions focus primarily on assisting the judge in ensuring that the respondent understands the nature of the proceeding, effectively presents evidence about the case, and has appropriate assistance. Issues of age, development, experience and self-determination impact on how a court deals with a child respondent and are highlighted in the OPPM.
