A Houston-based law firm, Burke Law Group, has officially withdrawn from consideration for a federal contract aimed at providing legal representation for unaccompanied migrant children. This decision comes in the wake of concerns raised after a federal notice suggested the firm could be awarded up to $150 million without a competitive bidding process.
The Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) has announced that, in the interim, the U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants will handle legal representation for these children until at least December 31 while the agency actively seeks alternative providers.
Burke Law Group communicated their decision through social media, stating they were initially approached to address a gap in legal services and were exploring ways to contribute. However, they ultimately decided against applying for the grant or contract, officially withdrawing from the consideration process.
The ORR confirmed this withdrawal, noting that a Federal Register Notice published on August 4, 2026, had indicated the agency’s intent to establish a partnership with Burke Law Group. A spokesperson clarified that the firm has not been awarded any funding from ORR.
Prior to this, a filing in the federal register had indicated that Burke was poised to receive a no-bid contract valued at up to $150 million. Burke Law Group, led by former Trump appointee Marcella Burke, had stated their intention to apply for only a small portion of the funds to help tackle the ongoing humanitarian crisis concerning unaccompanied minors.
The announcement of the potential contract stirred unease among advocacy groups, who expressed concerns regarding the decision to award such a significant grant to Burke Law Group. Legal services for unaccompanied minors had previously been provided by the Acacia Center for Justice, which was granted the contract in 2023.
Looking ahead, the ORR is collaborating with the Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Mission Acquisition Solutions to explore various options for delivering legal services to unaccompanied migrant children. While specific details remain sensitive to procurement, the agency has committed to sharing information once a contract is finalized.
In a statement, the ORR reaffirmed its dedication to ensuring that every unaccompanied child receives legal representation in immigration court. The agency officially engaged the U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants to provide legal services starting August 5, 2026.
