NOTEWORTHY & IMPACTFUL ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Pioneered Legal Strategy Against Terrorism Bar in Asylum Cases for Extortion Victims

Developed a novel four-part legal argument in 2025 to shield extortion victims from the “material support to terrorist organization” bar to asylum following the designation of certain Central American gangs as terrorist organizations.   Because binding BIA precedent had rejected duress as a standalone exception, the framework moved beyond a coercion-based defense. Despite restrictive BIA precedent, none of Attorney Kennedy’s asylum clients were denied protection on this basis, enhancing their chances for obtaining a green card.

Author of Asylum Testimony Guidebook

Wrote “How to Testify in an Asylum Case,” a practical guide empowering asylum seekers to deliver credible and effective testimony before USCIS and Immigration Court

Secured Judicial Marriage License for Immigration Detainee

Successfully obtained a rare judicial order authorizing marriage for a client in ICE custody, overcoming bureaucratic barriers and safeguarding future immigration pathway.

Achieved First Annulment in Maryland in Over Two Decades

Won a landmark annulment—reportedly the first granted in Maryland in 24 years—demonstrating exceptional command of seldom-used legal remedies, which can impact citizenship rights.

Blocked DHS Case Dismissals to Preserve Due Process

Successfully opposed Department of Homeland Security efforts to prematurely dismiss removal cases, ensuring that clients maintained their access to immigration court protections, including the right to request a bond hearing, crucial for those facing removal proceedings.

Reopened and Rescinded Prior Removal Orders

Obtained favorable rulings reopening and vacating old removal orders, restoring clients’ eligibility for lawful relief and preventing imminent deportation, vital for those facing removal. 

Enforced Supreme Court Limits on Indefinite Civil Immigration Detention
After the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Zadvydas v. Davis recognized constitutional limits on indefinite civil immigration detention where removal is not reasonably foreseeable, Attorney Kennedy filed federal habeas corpus actions invoking those limits. Those filings resulted in the termination of detention consistent with binding Supreme Court precedent.