Which of the following steps should come last in an adjudication?

• A. Security checks
• B. Eligibility determination
• C. Discretionary determination
• D. Inadmissibility determination

Answer: (C)

In the process of adjudication, after assessing security checks, eligibility, and any inadmissibility issues, the final step is the discretionary determination. This step is critical as it involves reviewing the entire context of the application or petition and deciding whether to grant the benefit requested based on the specific circumstances, merits, and any favorable factors present. The adjudicator weighs the evidence and may consider how the applicant's case aligns with the aims and policies of the immigration system.

Placing discretion at the end allows for a comprehensive review following the completion of all necessary checks and determinations. If this step were placed earlier, it could lead to premature judgment without the full context and factual grounding provided by the prior processes. In this way, the discretionary determination integrates the findings from the previous steps, contributing to a fair and informed decision.