Millions of people have entered the country illegally, many as children, and find themselves threatened with deportation. Immigration laws are complex and many people do not understand these laws. When faced with deportation, they often don’t know what to do.
There are many ways in which someone can come to the notice of ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement Division). However it happens, at some point the person will receive a Notice to Appear (NTA) in front of an immigration judge. This notice will state the reason for the letter (deportation), the reasons for the threatened deportation and the penalties for not appearing at this hearing. It will also say that you have to right to hire a lawyer, at your own expense.
Anyone receiving an NTA should contact their Columbus OH Deportation Lawyer immediately. Some of the possible arguments that could be raised are:
Cancellation of Removal
This means that the removal proceedings will be cancelled. This may apply to immigrants who have a green card or hold Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) status in some way, who have lived in the U.S. for at least 7 years and have had LPR status for over 5 years. There are other conditions that must be met also.
An illegal immigrant who does not have LPR status has to face stricter requirements, including having lived in the U.S. for 10 years or more. In addition, this person must have never before received a Notice to Appear and have ‘good moral character’. It is also necessary to prove that deportation would cause excessive hardship on a family member who is a Lawful Permanent Resident.
Asylum
It is more difficult to claim a need for asylum if asylum was not applied for during the first year of living in the U.S. The person must also have no convictions for an aggravated felony or be considered a threat to national security.
Adjustment of Status
This involves getting immigration status changed from non-immigrant to LPR. It is easier to get this form of relief if someone else has petitioned for this on your behalf, such as an employer, an American citizen or an LPR.
A Columbus OH Deportation Lawyer would be able to advise as to what type of relief could be claimed in your particular circumstances. Bell Law Office specializes in immigration and naturalization services. Call Jessica Rodriguez Bell for a free consultation.
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