Seeking asylum can feel overwhelming. But you don't have to make this pivotal journey alone. Let us prepare your affirmative or defensive asylum claims, handling every aspect from documenting persecution to securing critical evidence to vigorous courtroom advocacy. We'll shoulder the legal burdens so you can simply focus on finding safety and building your new life free from oppression. Your future of freedom starts today.
Affirmative Asylum: Applying Directly with USCIS
How to Apply and Prepare a Strong Petition
Are you seeking safety and protection in the United States due to persecution or fear of persecution in your home country? Affirmative asylum may be the solution you're looking for.
This proactive process allows you to apply for asylum status regardless of your method of entry or current immigration status. However, applying affirmatively with USCIS is not available if your Notice to Appear has been filed and you are in removal proceedings.
At our firm, we understand the complexities involved and are here to guide you through every step with compassion and expertise. We promise to carefully evaluate your case and build the strongest possible claim demonstrating your well-founded fear of persecution based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group.
The affirmative asylum process begins by submitting your Form I-589 to USCIS. After receiving your application, they will schedule an asylum interview. During this crucial interview, you must provide credible testimony and evidence supporting your claim. While your asylum case is pending, you may be eligible for an Employment Authorization Document, or work permit, 180 days after submission.
Though wait times can vary, there is a significant backlog of affirmative asylum cases. Unfortunately, wait times for an interview can extend to a handful of years to over a decade. But with our dedicated advocacy on your side, you can find hope for a brighter future free from oppression.
Defensive Asylum: When You've Been Placed in Removal Proceedings
Don't Face the Threat of Deportation Alone
Have you been placed in removal proceedings, yet fear persecution if you are forced to return to your home country? Defensive asylum may provide the protection you need. This process allows you to apply for asylum defensively while in immigration court to prevent your deportation from the United States.
The defensive process begins being issued a Notice to Appear, or the start of removal proceedings against you in court. At your first appearance, generally a master calendar hearing before an immigration judge, we will argue for your eligibility to apply for asylum and file Form I-589 and accompanying evidence with the court.
Your case will then be scheduled for an individual merits hearing. Many of these cases are being scheduled for several years away due to case backlogs, but your exact date depends on your court and, sometimes, your country of origin.
In this crucial final hearing, you must provide credible testimony and evidence to establish your well-founded fear of persecution based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group. Though defensive asylum cases can be more adversarial and challenging, our unwavering commitment ensures you have the strongest representation possible. You don't have to face deportation and risk persecution alone - we're here to protect your rights and fight for your safety every step of the way.
