Removal (Deportation) Defense
Being in removal proceedings can be an extremely stressful experience. There are many ways to seek relief from deportation, including asylum, U-Visas, T-Visas, VAWA, family based applications, hardship waivers and cancellation of removal.
As trust between immigrant communities and Contra Costa County law enforcement strains, it has never been more important to know your rights and your options. It is important to consult with an immigration attorney as soon as possible to discuss all available options. If you or a loved one live in the Bay Area or Contra Costa County and need a removal defense lawyer, please contact me.
My Contra Costa County practice serves families and individuals in need of removal defense. I proudly represent Concord, Richmond, Antioch, and beyond. Please call (415) 527-5886 right now to discuss your case.
Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility
An individual is considered inadmissible if she has been present in the United States for more than one year and does not have legal status. Being inadmissible prevents an individual from adjusting their status to that of a lawful permanent resident (from getting a green card), obtaining a visa and are vulnerable to deportation.
In order to overcome these bars, it may be necessary to file a hardship waiver. Hardship waivers demonstrate to United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that deportation or prohibition from entry would cause “extreme hardship” to a qualifying family member. A qualifying family member is a citizen or lawful permanent spouse or parent. Medical issues or difficulty paying debts are common examples of what USCIS considers an “extreme hardship”. It is important to consult with an immigration attorney to determine eligibility for a hardship waiver and to discuss the process.
Cancellation of Removal
Cancellation of removal is a limited form of relief for certain individuals. Individuals who do have lawful permanent status may be eligible is they have been present in the United States for 10 years, is of good moral character and if her deportation would cause extreme hardship to a qualifying family member. (See Hardship Waiver page.) Permanent residents who are facing deportation may qualify if they were present in the United States for seven continuous years and who have not been arrested or convicted of a crime during their first five years as residents.
Extensive information and documentation may be required for an application of cancellation of removal. It is important to consult with an immigration deportation attorney as quickly as possible to discuss this form of relief.
Family Based Applications
If you have a United States citizen or lawful permanent resident family member, you may be eligible for certain immigration benefits. If you live in Concord, Antioch, or surrounding areas, contact me to discuss your options. This area of law is very complicated and it is important to consult with an immigration attorney to discuss the options and risks.
Fiancé Petitions
Fiancé petitions are available to individuals who wish to marry someone from another country. Through this process, an individual’s fiancé may enter the United States on a special fiancé visa so that the two may get married. Upon marriage, the new spouse may apply for lawful permanent resident (a green card.)
Your Concord Deportation Lawyer
In 2016, 450,954 immigrants were removed from the country. Thousands and thousands were removed from Contra Costa County alone. Everyday, individuals and their families are deported. It has never been more important to prepare and assert your rights. If you face removal proceedings, it is not guaranteed that you will be deported. Contact my Contra Costa County practice for a consultation. I will help you determine your best course of action and explore every option possible. I defend individuals throughout Concord, Antioch, the Bay Area and beyond.