For an immigrant, facing the threat of deportation or removal can be an overwhelming and frightening experience, because it can jeopardize your life and livelihood. Houston immigration attorney Anie Usoro advises and aggressively represents clients in deportation and removal proceedings. Anie has the experience and knowledge to protect your rights and defend you in the deportation process.

Defending Against Deportation and Removal

Deportation and removal are two interchangeable terms that apply to the process for removing or deporting an immigrant from the United States. Deportation is an established term, while removal is a newer term that is used to describe the process.

If you face deportation or removal, it is essential to be represented by a knowledgeable immigration lawyer. Defending against the process may require multiple hearings before an immigration judge. However, in some cases, a noncitizen can be subject to expedited removal without a hearing.

Representation by knowledgeable legal counsel is the only way to ensure that you protect your rights to defend against deportation and have the best chance to avoid removal. At the Houston law firm of Usoro & Associates, P.C., Anie Usoro represents and advises immigrants facing deportation and removal proceedings. Her compassionate approach and experience in administrative and court proceedings provide her with the skill and knowledge to assert a vigorous defense on your behalf.

Reasons and Process for Deportation / Removal

United States law provides multiple reasons for removing or deporting an immigrant from the country. The primary reasons include entering the U.S. without proper permission or entering with permission but violating the terms of initial entry. In addition, a permanent resident (green card holder) may be deported if they commit a crime that is a deportable offense, or if they violate the terms of their visa in other ways. The law also permits enforcement authorities to remove noncitizens who are a threat to public safety. Working in the U.S. illegally and overstaying a visa are examples of reasons for initiation of deportation proceedings.

Removal proceedings may start with a charging document called a notice to appear, issued by the enforcement part of the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The notice states the allegations and charges for removal. Receiving a notice to appear does not mean that an immigrant will automatically be deported. The immigrant may have the right to challenge removal by defending against the charges and requesting review by an immigration judge. Asserting a challenge may require more than one hearing before the judge. Legal representation in challenging a deportation notice is critical.

There are a number of potential defenses to removal, depending on the individual’s circumstances. They include:

• Establishing that there is not a valid basis for the removal proceedings
• Requesting cancellation of removal if you have been a permanent resident for at least five years, resided in the U.S. continuously for at least seven years, and have not committed a disqualifying crime
• Requesting cancellation of removal if you resided in the U.S. continuously for at least 10 years, did not commit a disqualifying crime, have a good moral character, and can demonstrate extremely exceptional and unusual hardship to a qualifying relative
• Applying for an adjustment of status to permanent resident as the beneficiary of an approved immigrant petition
• Requesting defensive asylum by demonstrating a fear of persecution on returning to your home country

Your immigration attorney helps you to determine the best way to defend against removal proceedings. That may involve filing a motion to reopen the proceedings, seeking cancellation of a deportation order, appealing a removal order, or requesting asylum. The right defense in your case will depend on your circumstances.

How Usoro & Associates Helps

Anie Usoro has the right combination of experience, knowledge, and skill to assert a vigorous defense against deportation and removal. Anie has a passion for helping people through difficult times and takes a compassionate approach to every client and case.

You can count on Anie for dependable counsel and representation in a removal case. She makes sure you fully understand all the laws and processes and helps you evaluate your options to make an informed decision about how to move forward. Anie supports clients throughout the entire process, from beginning to end.

If you receive a notice to appear on a deportation / removal matter or you suspect that you are being considered for deportation, it is important to contact a lawyer immediately. The process can move quickly. Protecting your right to challenge deportation is extremely important and requires prompt action on your and your lawyer’s part.

Contact Usoro & Associates for a Free Consultation

Anie Usoro represents and counsels clients in deportation and removal proceedings, asserting a vigorous defense throughout the process. You can trust Anie to explain the laws that apply to your case, use her experience and skills to protect your rights and interests, and work hard to help you reach the best resolution.