Deportation Defense Attorneys in Queens, New York

Protecting Your Rights in Tense Immigration Matters in New York

The prospect of deportation can be daunting and filled with uncertainty. Navigating the complexities of immigration law requires a deep understanding of the statutes and a keen sense of the human element involved in each case. Deportation, or removal, proceedings in the United States are administrative processes to determine the validity of a foreign national's presence in the country. If you find yourself in this situation, hiring a Queens deportation defense lawyer experienced in immigration law becomes vital in protecting your future.

Our firm, The Sekou Clarke Law Group, is forged from the very essence of the immigrant journey. We understand the trials you face because we've lived them. Our lawyers are not only experienced but also immigrants who fight tirelessly for your interests with a client-focused approach. We stand ready to advocate for you with the same perseverance we would for our families.

Take immediate action and contact our Queens deportation defense attorneys at (407) 269-8774. Discuss your case with our Queen's deportation defense lawyer, who understands and can fight for you.

Common Reasons for Deportation

Deportation is a complex and often intimidating process that can uproot lives and separate families. Various circumstances can trigger deportation, and understanding these reasons is crucial for those facing removal from the United States.

One of the most common reasons for deportation is violating the terms of a visa or immigration status. This can include overstaying a visa, engaging in unauthorized employment, or failing to maintain the required status as a student or worker. Even minor infractions can lead to deportation proceedings, especially if they accumulate over time.

Criminal convictions are another significant factor in deportation cases. Certain crimes, such as aggravated felonies, crimes of moral turpitude, and drug offenses, can make non-citizens removable from the U.S. The severity and nature of the crime play a role in whether deportation is pursued. However, even minor offenses can be used as a basis for removal, depending on the circumstances and the individual's immigration history.

Fraud or misrepresentation of immigration documents is also a common ground for deportation. This includes providing false information on visa applications, marriage fraud, or lying to immigration officials. Such actions can lead to severe consequences, including the initiation of removal proceedings.

Finally, a lack of legal immigration status is a primary reason for deportation. Individuals who enter the U.S. without proper documentation or fail to renew their status are at risk of being deported. This includes individuals who entered the country illegally, those who were denied asylum, or those whose temporary protected status (TPS) expired.

Defenses Against Deportation

Depending on the circumstances of the case, several defenses can be employed to fight against deportation. One common defense is seeking asylum. Individuals who fear persecution in their home country based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group may be eligible for asylum. If granted, asylum allows the individual to remain in the U.S. and eventually apply for permanent residency.

Cancellation of removal is another potential defense. This relief is available to certain non-citizens who have been in the U.S. for a significant period and can demonstrate good moral character and hardship to themselves or their families if deported. Legal permanent residents may also seek cancellation of removal if they meet specific criteria, including having a clean criminal record.

Adjustment of status is another defense strategy, especially for those eligible to become legal permanent residents through family or employment-based petitions. If the individual qualifies for a green card, they may apply to adjust their status and avoid deportation.

Certain individuals who have committed crimes or violated immigration laws can obtain waivers of inadmissibility. These waivers allow the individual to remain in the U.S. despite past infractions. The waiver process is complex, and success depends on various factors, including the nature of the violation and the individual's ties to the U.S.

Finally, voluntary departure is an option for some individuals facing deportation. By agreeing to leave the U.S. voluntarily, the individual can avoid the legal consequences of a formal deportation order, which may make it easier to return to the U.S. legally in the future.