Facing deportation can feel overwhelming, especially when you do not know what options remain available. Removal proceedings place your ability to remain in the United States at risk, but a deportation case does not automatically end with removal. You have the right to fight back, and our experienced immigration attorneys are here to help.
Many people qualify for defenses that allow them to stay in the country or at least leave on more favorable terms. Tucson residents deserve a deportation defense lawyer that will work tirelessly to protect their legal status.
The federal government may place a noncitizen in removal proceedings for many different reasons. Some cases involve allegations that a person entered the country without authorization or remained after a visa expired, while others could involve the commission of a crime.
Criminal convictions are especially likely to trigger deportation proceedings. Certain offenses may make a person removable even if he or she has lived in the United States for many years. Some immigrants face the potential of removal when they are accused of committing fraud as part of the immigration process.
It’s also important to understand that receiving a Notice to Appear does not mean removal is inevitable. The government still has to prove it’s case, and many Tucson immigrants avoid removal with the help of a deportation defense lawyer.
No two deportation cases are exactly alike, and you deserve a defense that is suited to the facts of your case in order to get the best possible outcome. For Tucson residents, a deportation defense attorney could rely on any of the following strategies.
Some individuals in removal proceedings may qualify to become lawful permanent residents through adjustment of status. This option often applies when a qualifying family member or employer can sponsor the applicant. Adjustment of status can be used as a defense if you were entitled to pursue a green card before these proceedings began, or even if circumstances have changed since then.
Cancellation of removal allows certain individuals to remain in the United States despite being placed in removal proceedings. Lawful permanent residents may qualify if they meet residency requirements and can demonstrate that they deserve relief. Nonpermanent residents may also qualify if they have lived in the United States for a sufficient period and can show that removal would cause exceptional and extremely unusual hardship to a close family member.
Some victims of serious crimes may qualify for immigration protection through a U visa. This option applies to immigrants who suffered substantial harm because of criminal activity and assisted law enforcement with the investigation of the crimes against them. A U visa can provide temporary legal status and may eventually lead to a green card. In many situations, waivers may also overcome immigration violations that would otherwise prevent approval.
The reality is that not every deportation case ends with the immigrant remaining in the U.S. indefinitely. However, leaving under your own terms could be in your best interest, especially if you hope to return to the U.S. at some point in the future. Voluntary departure means agreeing to leave the country instead of going through the formal deportation process.
Immigration authorities sometimes have the authority to exercise prosecutorial discretion. This may involve dismissing removal proceedings, delaying enforcement action, or choosing not to pursue deportation under certain circumstances. These options aren’t always permanent solutions, but they can be enough to keep you in the U.S. until you can achieve legal status.
Many immigrants worry about the threat of being deported. If you’ve received a Notice of Removal, you have options for fighting back. Immigrants in Tucson should talk with a deportation defense lawyer instead of assuming their case is hopeless. Call today to learn more about how we help you to stay in this country legally.
