Ninth Circuit Rules on Due Diligence Standard for Equitable Tolling For Motions to Reopen

The Ninth Circuit issued a decision in Eskilian v. Bondi , 172 F.4th 682 (9th Cir. 2026) on April 2, 2026. This case can guide advocates on demonstrating due diligence for equitable tolling for an otherwise time- or number-barred Motion to Reopen. This analysis could be particularly helpful for clients from countries that previously did not accept individuals deported from the U.S., such as Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam, as well as those from former Soviet countries.