Given the huge backlog at the Board of Immigration Appeals, the Department of Justice has implemented a policy known as Affirmance Without Opinion.

The very name implies the problem. 

An AWO that authorizes a single BIA member to affirm the decision of a lower immigration court judge by a summary written order without issuing a separate written opinion.

The procedure opens the door to foul play.

Recommended Links For More Information:

Affirmance Without Opinion: BIA Cure Worse Than Appellate Disease

One Million Backlogged Immigration Court Cases And Growing