An unexpected visit from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) can be frightening. If you are wondering what to do if ICE comes to your door, the most important thing to do is stay calm and remember that you have rights under the U.S. Constitution, regardless of immigration status. Our immigration attorneys have helped individuals and families across North...
Continue ReadingCancellation of removal is immigration relief that allows certain noncitizens in the U.S. to avoid deportation and, in many cases, obtain lawful permanent resident status (a green card). When an immigration judge grants cancellation of removal, they stop removal proceedings and let you remain in the U.S. lawfully. The process is available only to those who meet strict eligibility...
Continue ReadingWithholding of removal is a form of immigration relief that stops the government from deporting a person to a country where their life or freedom faces threats because of race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion. If you qualify, the immigration judge must grant withholding of removal, which allows you to stay in the...
Continue ReadingDo illegal immigrants have constitutional rights? Does the Constitution apply to illegal immigrants? Do illegal immigrants have rights? What rights do illegal immigrants have? While we object to calling undocumented individuals “illegal immigrants,” we understand that many people wonder, What rights do immigrants have in the United States? Do illegal immigrants have constitutional rights? Yes, immigrants are protected by...
Continue ReadingIf you or someone you love has received a deportation order, you may feel overwhelmed and uncertain about what comes next. Depending on the circumstances, you may have the right to appeal the deportation order. A deportation appeal allows you to challenge the decision and potentially remain in the United States. The process is complex and time-sensitive, making it...
Continue ReadingCan a U.S. citizen be deported? The short, practical answer is no—U.S. citizens generally cannot be deported. Once someone becomes a U.S. citizen, they have full constitutional protections and the right to remain in the country. Although they apply to very few individuals, U.S. law does authorize the government to revoke citizenship in specific and rare circumstances through a...
Continue ReadingIf you or someone you know is facing a removal (deportation) order from the United States, a motion to reopen may offer a second chance. In U.S. immigration law, a motion to reopen allows an individual to ask the immigration court to review a case they or another immigration court has already decided. Motions to reopen enable immigrants to...
Continue ReadingThe marriage-based green card interview is one of the most important steps in the marriage-based green card process. The interview focuses on confirming the legitimacy of your marriage and assessing whether your relationship meets the requirements set by U.S. immigration law. During the interview, you and your spouse will answer personal and relationship-based questions and show the interviewer supporting...
Continue ReadingYou may be wondering, How long do you have to be married to get a green card? As long as you are in a genuine, legal marriage, there is no length requirement. Marrying a U.S. citizen is one of the fastest ways to get a green card. The total wait time for a marriage-based green card averages about 9.3...
Continue ReadingAsylum is one of the most important ways for individuals fleeing danger to find a safe new home. Asylees—individuals who have been granted asylum protection—must wait at least one year after being granted asylum before applying for a green card—lawful permanent resident status. Once that year passes, how long it takes to get a green card after asylum approval...
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