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If you or a loved one is facing deportation proceedings, it's very important to know that there are ways to defend yourself in immigration court. Many people don’t know that they have rights, even if they don’t have papers. Here we explain, in simple terms, the types of defenses that can help you stay in the United States legally.
1. Asylum: Protection if You’re Afraid to Return to Your Country
You can apply for asylum if you’re afraid to go back to your country because you suffered threats, violence, or persecution. This can be because of your religion, race, nationality, political opinions, sexual orientation, or a personal situation.
Important: You must apply for asylum within the first year of arriving in the U.S., but there are some exceptions.
2. Cancellation of Removal or the “10-Year Law”
If you’ve been living in the U.S. for more than 10 years without papers and you have a family member who is a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (like a child or spouse), you might be able to apply for cancellation of removal. To qualify, you need to show that your deportation would cause un daño extremo extreme hardship to that family member. The hardship can be emotional, economic, physical, or health-related.
3. U Visa, T Visa, and VAWA: For People Who Have Suffered Abuse or Crimes
There are special visas for people who have been through difficult situations, such as:
- Abuse at home (by a partner or family member)
- Serious crimes (like assault, sexual abuse, kidnapping, among others)
- Exploitation or abuse while crossing the border
These visas can help you obtain legal status and protect you from deportation.
What Should You Do If You’re in Deportation Proceedings?
1. Talk to an immigration attorney. Every case is different. An attorney can tell you what the best defense is for your case and help you with all the necessary paperwork.
2. Gather as much evidence as possible. For example, letters from family members, medical reports, police documents, or anything that supports your story. Evidence is very important to make your case stronger.
What Should You NOT Do?
- Do not make decisions without legal help. Doing things without guidance can make your situation worse.
- Do not ignore deadlines or important dates. If you don’t submit your case on time, you could lose the opportunity to defend yourself.
How Can We Help You?
At our office, we’ve helped many people like you find a legal solution and protect themselves from deportation. We know these processes can be scary, but you don’t have to face them alone.
Here’s how we can support you along the way:
- We evaluate your case step by step and tell you which defense is strongest for your situation.
- We help you prepare and present your case before the judge.
- We gather and organize all the necessary evidence to get you the best possible outcome.
- We guide you through the entire legal process, explaining each step in simple words.
With the right help, it’s possible to fight for your future and stay with your family in this country.
Remember: You Are Not Alone
Even if you’re in deportation proceedings, you can still fight to stay in this country. There are options, but it’s important to act quickly, have a plan, and get the right help.
Remember: Even if you don’t have papers, you have rights.