One of the most common ways that people end up in deportation proceedings is by being arrested for an unrelated crime. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has officers at many Utah jails to screen for possible immigration violators. People often panic when confronted by an ICE officer and agree to deportation. However, your loved one has rights and may be entitled to immigration relief. Being in deportation proceedings does not automatically mean that your loved one will be deported. There are many forms of relief that your loved one may be entitled to. Here is what you and
your loved one need to do to keep your immigration options open:
1. Do not sign anything agreeing to deportationne of the most common ways that people end up in deportation proceedings is by being arrested for an unrelated crime. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has officers at many Utah jails to screen for possible immigration violators. People often panic when confronted by an ICE officer and agree to deportation. However, your loved one has rights and may be entitled to immigration relief. Being in deportation proceedings does not automatically mean that your loved one will be deported. There are many forms of relief that your loved one may be entitled to. Here is what you and your loved one need to do to keep your immigration options open:
Either at the jail if your loved one is detained or at an immigration hearing an ICE officer or an immigration judge may offer the opportunity for a quick deportation or voluntary departure. If your loved one agrees to deportation or departure, there is very little a lawyer can do to help apply for relief. Do not make this monumental decision without the help of a lawyer.
2. Consult with a lawyer to see if your loved one qualifies for immigration relief
Some of the common types of relief available to individuals in deportation proceedings include cancellation of removal, voluntary departure, adjustment of status, asylum, withholding of removal, and certain waivers that can make someone who is normally removable eligible for relief. These forms of relief are complex and a trained attorney will need to evaluate your loved one’s history to determine which form of relief is best.
In some cases it may be possible to attack old criminal cases that may be preventing your loved one from getting immigration relief.
It is often possible to stop deportation proceedings and gain legal status in the United States. Do not give up hope just because your loved one is in deportation proceedings.
3. Apply for immigration relief
Your attorney will need to quickly apply for immigration relief. The deadlines in deportation cases are extremely tight especially if your loved one is being detained by immigration officials. The lawyer will need to gain evidence and will need your help to do it. Do everything you can to quickly assemble information on your loved one’s criminal history, moral character, family members, and immigration history. It will be extremely helpful to your loved one’s case.
Having a lawyer represent you or your loved one in deportation proceedings can make all the difference in the world. A deportation can affect the rest of your life. Don’t give up. Consult with a trained, experienced lawyer who can guide you through the process and hopefully, your loved one will be able to remain legally with you and your family here in the United States.
Joshua Baron
Google