The world of immigration is packed with red tape. At Voloshen Law, as immigration attorneys in Philadelphia, PA, we have seen our fair share of individuals who are overwhelmed. Those feelings only increase should ICE stop you. When this happens, it’s hard to stay calm, but that’s exactly what you need to do. Work with the agents, not against them.
What Rights Do I Have When Stopped by ICE?
There are many people who do not know what rights they have when facing potential deportation. First, you do not have to say anything to the agents except to provide your identity. Tell them you are exercising that right. You can immediately ask for a lawyer, and refuse to have your belongings searched, too. If you feel these rights were violated, make a note of everything you remember and file an objection with the agency’s complaint board.
Requesting an experienced deportation lawyer is sound thinking. If you cannot afford the representation, a lawyer will be assigned to your case upon request. This is the time to make a local phone call to someone who can assist you (or to inform your family). While you’re waiting for assistance, do not discuss your immigration status with anyone but your legal representative.
Contingencies to Deportation
Voloshen Law knows how to navigate deportation threats. There are some situations that stop removal. Lawful residents are safe, provided they’ve never broken the terms of residency. Additionally, you cannot be deported if
- Your parents are citizens who have lived in the United States for an amount of time specified by immigration
- You can prove you were born in the US
- Your parent (or parents) are naturalized
These are three very simple contingencies. But as our team at Voloshen Law knows all too well, there is little about immigration law that is “simple,” particularly if you are facing deportation. For example, if your grandparents lived in the US as citizens, this is another contingency to deportation. There are specific procedures the government must follow in any deportation effort. It’s not fast. During the months of processing, you can fully explore your rights.
Problems & Solutions: Immigration Attorneys Philadelphia, PA
Be honest. If you overstayed your visa, entered the US illegally, or violated previously established immigration terms, you’re going to have trouble stopping removal. But legal consultation can find potential loopholes. When you face dangers at your country of origin, for example, you can apply for asylum.
Or, your lawyer may recommend applying for a waiver. This isn’t a guaranteed process, and the paperwork is complex. Whether this is an option for you depends on your record while in the US. No arrests or convictions go a long way toward consideration.
If you are still facing deportation, know your rights about that, too. You can appeal the decision within 30 days. Having an experienced immigration lawyer in Philadelphia can handle that process on your behalf. The legal requirements change constantly, and it is our job to track and apply those changes to your case so we can best help you.
Voloshen Law Representation
Crossing those Ts and dotting Is are important in every single piece of the immigration process. When facing deportation, even if you know some of your rights, you may not know how to apply those rights and provide proper documentation. Voloshen Law’s extensive experience can help you.
We have two offices. One is in Huntingdon Valley, PA, and the other is in Boca Raton, FL. We have a convenient online contact form to open communications. Or, call our office at 215-437-7854.