Definition
Prosecutorial Discretion
Also: PD
Government decisions to focus enforcement resources on certain cases and not others.
Prosecutorial discretion is exercised by ICE, CBP, and USCIS to pause, dismiss, or de-prioritize enforcement against noncitizens based on factors like family ties, length of residence, and humanitarian considerations. PD policies change with each administration.
See also
More immigration terms
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Public Charge
A ground of inadmissibility for applicants likely to depend on government assistance.
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REAL ID
A federal identification standard for state-issued IDs used to board domestic flights.
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Reentry Permit
A travel document allowing an LPR to remain abroad for up to 2 years without losing status.
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Refugee
A person granted protection from outside the U.S. before entering.
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Removal Proceedings
Immigration court hearings to determine whether a noncitizen must leave the U.S.
Not legal advice. Definitions are provided for educational use. For case-specific guidance, consult a licensed immigration attorney.