Concord Asylum Lawyers

Attorneys Helping Immigrants Receive Asylum Protections in Concord, CA

For many immigrants who arrive in the United States fleeing violence, political persecution, or other threats in their home countries, asylum can help protect their safety and provide them with stability. Asylum is a vital protection available under U.S. immigration law, allowing people to remain in the country legally and take steps to become lawful permanent residents.

For immigrants in Concord, California, understanding when asylum may be available and how to request it is essential. The attorneys at Hafey & Karim can provide legal guidance to help clients understand their best options for relief. We can evaluate a person's eligibility for asylum, file the correct applications and documentation, and provide representation to help ensure that a person can receive the protection they need.

What Is Asylum and What Protections Does it Offer?

Asylum is a form of legal protection granted to certain people who are physically present in the United States or who arrive at the border. A person may be eligible for asylum if they can demonstrate that they have suffered persecution in the past or fear that future persecution will occur if they return to their home country.

The persecution must be based on one or more protected grounds. Race or nationality may be factors that could cause people to face discrimination, threats, violence, or mistreatment. Religious beliefs or political opinions may serve as the basis for persecution. Some may also face persecution because they are members of certain social groups.

If asylum is granted, a person may remain in the United States indefinitely, and they will be protected against deportation. They may apply for a work permit, and they can take steps to bring their family members to live with them in the United States. After living in the U.S. for at least one year, a person can apply for a Green Card, and they will eventually be able to take steps to become a U.S. citizen through naturalization.

Affirmative Asylum: Applying Proactively for Protection

An immigrant who is not currently involved in removal proceedings may request affirmative asylum by filing an application with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This process allows applicants to take a proactive approach to seek protection before facing the threat of deportation. The steps involved include:

1. Filing Within the Applicable Time Limits: Applicants must generally file for asylum during their first year after arriving in the U.S.
2. Submitting Documentation: Along with the application, supporting evidence of persecution, personal declarations, and identity documents should be submitted.
3. Attending a Biometrics Appointment: USCIS will collect fingerprints and conduct background checks.
4. Interview With an Immigration Official: An applicant will be required to attend an interview with a USCIS officer to discuss their case.
5. Receiving a Decision: If asylum is granted, the applicant may stay in the U.S. and access related benefits. If the claim is not granted, the case may be sent to immigration court.

Our attorneys can assist with preparing affirmative asylum applications. We can compile supporting documents, including country condition reports and witness statements, and we will make sure clients are prepared for USCIS interviews.

Defensive Asylum During Removal Proceedings

If an immigrant is already facing deportation in immigration court, they may seek defensive asylum as a form of relief from removal. This option may be available after a USCIS officer denies an affirmative asylum claim and refers the case to immigration court or a person receives a Notice to Appear in immigration court.

In a defensive asylum case, the application for asylum will be submitted to the immigration court as part of the defense against removal. The person will appear in a formal hearing where evidence may be presented, witnesses may be called, and the person may testify about the persecution they have experienced. An immigration judge will make a determination about whether asylum will be granted.

Our lawyers can provide representation in the Concord Immigration Court, helping people who are facing deportation demonstrate that they are eligible for asylum. With our knowledge of the procedures followed in immigration court, we can present strong cases and advocate for protections that will help our clients maintain stability and security.

Contact Our Concord, California Asylum Attorneys

When you face the possibility of persecution in another country, you will need to make sure you take the right actions to remain in the United States and protect your family's safety. The attorneys at Hafey & Karim can help you explore your legal options, and we will work with you to obtain protection through asylum or other forms of relief. Contact our Concord asylum lawyers at 214-506-0671 to arrange a consultation and take steps to build a safer and more secure future for you and your family.