Are You at Risk for Deportation?
In the constantly changing immigration law landscape, one of the most common questions we hear from our clients is, “Am I at risk for deportation?” These days, there are many rumors and scare tactics which are being masqueraded as truth when it comes to deportation. Here is some general information about deportation that may be of help to you and your loved ones.
What is Deportation?
Deportation occurs when someone who is a foreign national is physically removed from the United States. Typically, the cause for removal is that the person violated an immigration law.
Common examples of acts which can result in deportation include:
- Committing or participating in a criminal act while in the United States;
- Threatening public safety in the United States;
- Violating the terms of a visa;
- Coming to the United States without travel documents; and
- Coming to the United States with forged documents.
How Does the Deportation Process Work?
In some circumstances, such as instances where individuals come to the United States without travel documents or with forged documents, they may be quickly deported without an immigration court hearing under the doctrine of expedited removal. In other situations, foreign nationals face a longer deportation process that involves them appearing before a judge.
In the latter situation, the foreign national may be held in a detention center before their trial and deportation. An immigration court will then hear their case, and if the judge agrees that the deportation should proceed, the country which is designated to receive the individual must agree to accept them and issue travel documents to that person before the individual can be removed from the country.
What Can I Do if I Am Facing Deportation?
First, and most importantly, you need to retain the services of an experienced immigration attorney. Immigration law is an incredibly complicated area of the law that is changing constantly. They will be able to advise you of all of your options and can try to find a way to prevent you from being deported.
Once you hire an immigration attorney, they can contact a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration services office to ask questions about your case. If your attorney is able to determine that your civil rights have been violated during your immigration, detention, or removal proceedings, your attorney can also file a complaint with the Department of Homeland Security. Further, if you are an undocumented immigrant who is facing removal proceedings, your attorney may be able to help you go through a process to get your green card and become a lawful permanent resident. An attorney can also help you appeal your deportation ruling or help you apply for readmission after you have been deported or removed.
Need an Immigration Attorney?
Do not make the mistake of thinking you can handle your deportation issue on your own. Immigration law paperwork is complex and you need an experienced attorney by your side to help you build the strongest case possible against deportation. At the Talamantes Immigration Law Firm, APC, we know how scary it can be to face deportation, and we have represented many clients who are facing deportation. If you are facing deportation, contact Talamantes Immigration Law Firm, APC, today to learn how our experienced lawyers can help you.
Posted in: Deportation Defense