Written by Helen L. Parsonage, an immigration and criminal defense attorney admitted to federal courts across North Carolina. If Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detains you, you may wonder: How long can ICE hold you before deportation? The answer depends on the specifics of your situation. ICE can request local criminal agencies hold a person for up to 48...
Continue ReadingWhen the US government concludes you are in the country without authorization or have violated the terms of your status, it may place you in removal or deportation proceedings. These proceedings are how the government determines whether non-US citizens have the legal right to come to or stay in the US. A Master Hearing is the first step in the Immigration...
Continue ReadingAsylum allows individuals fleeing dangerous conditions in their home countries to permanently settle in the U.S., potentially saving their lives. But how long does the asylum process take? Many factors influence the typical asylum processing time, including whether the individual is in removal proceedings and the backlog of cases pending with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)...
Continue ReadingThe deportation process in the United States is lengthy and often complex. In many cases, the process can take years. The outcome of these proceedings, no matter how slow or quick, could drastically change your life. It is always best to have skilled, aggressive immigration representation going into deportation proceedings. Learn how we can assist you by calling (336) 724-2828 or sending us an...
Continue ReadingCan an undocumented immigrant fly within the U.S. in 2025? Yes, they may be able to, but that does not mean the process isn’t fraught with potential pitfalls and some danger. In general, domestic travel involves requests for official identification and contact with agents of the federal government. This means that air travel presents opportunities for an undocumented immigrant...
Continue ReadingAsylum in the US allows people fleeing persecution, violence, or threats based on who they are or what they believe to find safety and begin rebuilding their lives. To apply for asylum, a person must reasonably fear that returning home would expose them to persecution, meaning serious harm or threats caused by the government or by groups the government...
Continue ReadingIn 2025, the U.S. immigration law landscape is undergoing significant change. The Trump administration is in its second term and has made immigration a key area of emphasis. The year’s new immigration laws reflect a shift toward stricter enforcement, updated application procedures, and changing eligibility rules that affect families, workers, and humanitarian applicants alike. At EMP Law, our North...
Continue ReadingUsually, non-citizens working to obtain U.S. immigration benefits quickly become familiar with United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and its routine and extensive processing delays. USCIS’s Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence, has fallen victim to excessive delays, resulting in the expected Form I-751 processing time taking longer than a conditional permanent resident card. I-751 processing...
Continue ReadingFor many noncitizens, obtaining a green card represents stability and security in the U.S. Can undocumented immigrants get a green card? Yes, but qualifying without first leaving the U.S. is often challenging. At EMP Law, we understand the challenges undocumented immigrants face. Our team of experienced immigration lawyers is dedicated to helping individuals navigate the U.S. immigration system with...
Continue ReadingIf you get deported, can you come back? The answer depends on the specifics of your case and why you were deported. Some people must wait years before applying to reenter the country, while others cannot return unless they first obtain a very limited waiver. Understanding the rules is essential if you or a loved one is facing or...
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