DACA Recipient Deported Despite Valid Status, Challenges Removal in Lawsuit

Maria de Jesus Estrada Juarez files federal lawsuit against U.S. government after deportation to Mexico

Mar. 13, 2026 at 3:20am

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A Sacramento woman with active DACA status, Maria de Jesus Estrada Juarez, is challenging her recent deportation to Mexico in a federal lawsuit filed against the U.S. Government. The case highlights ongoing vulnerabilities for individuals protected under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, even while pursuing legal pathways to residency.

Why it matters

This case raises concerns about transparency and due process within the immigration system, particularly regarding the notification of prior deportation orders. It also suggests a pattern of enforcement actions targeting DACA recipients, despite the program's intent to shield them from deportation.

The details

Estrada Juarez, 42, was detained on February 18, 2026, during a scheduled interview for a green card application. Despite having valid DACA protection, she was deported to Mexico the following day. Her attorneys argue the deportation was unlawful, violating due process rights as she was not provided notice of a removal order or an opportunity to defend her case before an immigration judge. The Department of Homeland Security claims a prior deportation order from 1998 was reinstated due to Estrada Juarez's re-entry into the U.S. However, the lawsuit contends this is inaccurate, stating she has never been in removal proceedings and legally re-entered the U.S. in December 2014 using advance parole.

  • Estrada Juarez was detained on February 18, 2026.
  • Estrada Juarez was deported to Mexico the following day, on February 19, 2026.

The players

Maria de Jesus Estrada Juarez

A 42-year-old Sacramento woman with active DACA status who is challenging her recent deportation to Mexico in a federal lawsuit.

U.S. Government

The defendant in the federal lawsuit filed by Estrada Juarez.

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What’s next

The lawsuit seeks a court order for Estrada Juarez's immediate return to the U.S. while the case is pending. The outcome could set a precedent for similar cases and influence future interpretations of DACA regulations and enforcement practices.

The takeaway

This case underscores the precarious situation faced by many DACA recipients, even those actively pursuing legal avenues to permanent residency. It raises questions about transparency and due process within the immigration system, and highlights the need for comprehensive immigration reform to protect the rights of vulnerable populations.