If you are facing deportation or removal from the United States, it’s important to seek professional assistance from an immigration attorney. Taking action early can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Many law firms offer free initial consultations where they can assess your situation and inform you of the potential relief options available to you. With the right legal guidance, you may be able to delay or even prevent deportation through various legal avenues. Here are some common forms of relief that may be available:
- Waivers of Inadmissibility: In certain cases, you may qualify for a waiver under specific rules and regulations, though these opportunities are limited and often difficult to obtain.
- Cancellation of Removal: If you hold a green card or even if you don’t, you may be able to cancel an order of removal. This could halt the deportation process and allow you to remain in the U.S.
- Adjustment of Status: If eligible, this allows you to change your immigration status, potentially offering a path to permanent residency.
- Voluntary Departure: In some cases, the government may allow you to leave the country voluntarily, avoiding formal deportation proceedings.
- Suspension of Deportation: Although rare, there are situations where deportation can be temporarily suspended, allowing you to remain in the U.S.
Winning Your Deportation Case
The final decision on whether you will be deported rests with the immigration judge overseeing your case. However, the judge will consider several important factors before making a ruling. The role of your immigration attorney is to present the most favorable and accurate information that could impact the judge’s decision. Below are some factors that may influence the outcome of your case:
- Length of Stay in the U.S.: The longer you have lived in the United States, the stronger your case may be. For green card holders or even non-green card holders, a lengthy stay can demonstrate your ties to the country.
- Family Ties: If you have close family members who are U.S. citizens or green card holders, their support can be pivotal in your case. A judge may see your family connections as an indicator of your stable life in the U.S.
- Employment History: A steady employment record, showing that you have been a responsible member of the workforce, can further strengthen your case. It shows that you are not a financial burden on the country.
- Tax Payment History: Evidence of tax payments on income earned during your time in the U.S. (even if you don’t have a Social Security number) can demonstrate that you have been fulfilling your financial obligations. This can play a role in the judge’s consideration.
- Community Involvement: Participation in community activities such as volunteering or being part of a religious group can further reflect your integration into American society.
- Criminal and Immigration Law Violations: Your criminal history (if any) and whether you have violated immigration laws will be reviewed by the judge. The judge will look at the nature of any offenses and your efforts toward rehabilitation.
- Impact on Family: If deportation would cause significant hardship to family members who are U.S. citizens or legal residents, this could be a crucial factor in the judge’s decision. For example, if you are the primary financial provider, deportation could severely affect your family.
- Other Relevant Information: Any additional details about your case—whether positive or negative—could influence the judge’s decision, depending on how they are presented by your lawyer.
To get more detailed information on how to proceed with your case, you should consult with an immigration attorney. A lawyer can guide you through the complexities of the deportation process, helping you understand your options for relief. For those, reaching out to an immigration attorney from The Federal Practice Group is a valuable step in navigating these legal challenges.