By KATE BRUMBACK, DEEPTI HAJELA and AMY TAXIN
Associated Press

LUMPKIN, Ga. (AP) - The nation's immigration court system is shouldering crushing caseloads, chaos and confusion. Dysfunctional for years, the system has grown worse following a surge in asylum seekers and the Trump administration’s crackdown on the southwest border and illegal immigration. The AP visited immigration courts in 11 cities during a 10-day period in the fall, observing how massive caseloads and shifting policies have increased the turmoil. There are now 1 million people with immigration court cases, with some fast-tracked through the system and others waiting years for hearings. Some will win asylum or legal residence, while many will be deported.

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