Dree Kristin Collopy

Dree K. Collopy is a partner of Benach Collopy LLP.  As an experienced advocate, Dree devotes her practice to defending and representing individuals in removal proceedings, asylum matters, federal court litigation, VAWA and U visa petitions, waivers of inadmissibility, family and employment-based visa petitions, and complex adjustment of status and naturalization applications.  She develops thorough and creative legal strategies, provides impeccable and compassionate client service, and is steadfast in fighting for her clients’ rights.  Dree’s genuine passion and dedication to her work stems from her deep respect and appreciation for those who dare to dream the American dream.

In 2014, Dree was awarded one of the American Immigration Lawyers Association’s highest honors, the Joseph Minsky Young Lawyer Award for her outstanding contributions made in the field of immigration and nationality law.

Dree has authored several articles and frequently lectures on cutting edge immigration issues.  A recognized asylum expert, Dree serves as Chair of the AILA National Asylum and Refugee Liaison Committee and is the author of the forthcoming edition of AILA’s Asylum Primer, the “go-to” manual for practical, interpretive guidance on the entire asylum process.  In her capacity as Chair of the AILA National Asylum and Refugee Liaison Committee, Dree builds relationships and works cooperatively with government officials to maintain the integrity of our immigration system, ensure that our laws are implemented with accuracy and fairness, and secure justice and equality for non-citizens.

Dree is deeply committed to the pro bono representation of indigent clients and securing their access to counsel. She mentors pro bono attorneys, develops case materials and strategies for the representation of detained women and children refugees, and serves on working groups developing nation-wide policy advocacy and litigation strategies on behalf of refugees.  Dree also co-directs the Immigration Litigation Clinic at The Catholic University of America Columbus School of Law, where she is a member of the adjunct faculty and supervises law students representing indigent clients in removal proceedings before the U.S. Immigration Courts.

Dree joined Benach Collopy from the litigation practice of Maggio + Kattar, where she was a Senior Attorney.  She earned her J.D. and Certificate in Law and Public Policy at The Catholic University of America Columbus School of Law and her Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Spanish at Grinnell College.  Dree is fluent in Spanish.