Michelle Drake and the Fight Against Unlawful Refugee Detention

Drake, who leads the firm’s Minneapolis office, collaborated with The Advocates for Human Rights and the International Refugee Assistance Project to dismantle federal detention policies. Colleagues and partners praised her ability to translate complex legal arguments into powerful courtroom presentations, with Ghita Schwarz of the International Refugee Assistance Project describing her delivery as mesmerizing. The litigation ensured the release of all refugees represented in the firm's class action lawsuit.

While ICE activity in the region has diminished, the firm remains active in providing legal relief for those impacted by past detention. Drake, a former public defender in Georgia, brings over two decades of experience to these cases, balancing large-scale civil litigation with a focus on human rights. Eric L. Cramer, Chairman of Berger Montague, noted that this commitment to advocacy represents the core standard the firm upholds in its broader practice.