Concord, California Deportation Defense Attorneys

Lawyers Providing Representation in Removal Proceedings in Concord

For immigrants in the United States, the threat of deportation can be a major concern. Some people may be detained by ICE, or they may receive notices requiring them to appear in immigration court. Removal from the U.S. can disrupt families and careers, threatening the years an immigrant has spent building a life in the U.S. When addressing the possibility of deportation and defending against removal from the country, an immigration lawyer can provide legal help, making sure immigrants understand their options.

At Hafey & Karim, we work with clients throughout all stages of deportation cases. We can help immigrants and their families understand their rights and the legal issues they will need to address. We can provide representation in court while determining what forms of relief may be available. Our familiarity with the procedures followed in the Concord Immigration Court ensures that we can handle specific issues and address concerns raised by immigration judges. By providing clear guidance and strategic support, we work to help immigrants defend against deportation and prevent disruptions to their lives.

Understanding the Immigration Court Process

The process of deportation typically begins when the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) begins formal removal proceedings against a non-citizen. The key stages of the process include:

• Notice to Appear (NTA): An immigrant may receive a Notice to Appear, which outlines the charges against them and the legal grounds for removal. This document will provide information about the date and location of the first court hearing that a person will need to attend.
• ICE Detention: In some cases, ICE may arrest and detain a person who is suspected of violating immigration laws. Detention can occur following workplace raids, routine check-ins, or after contact with law enforcement. Detainees may be transferred to immigration detention centers while their cases proceed.
• Immigration Bond Hearings: Some detainees may be eligible for release on bond. Our immigration attorneys can request a bond hearing and present evidence showing that the client is not a flight risk and does not pose a danger to the community. Judges may consider factors such as family ties, employment, and community involvement when determining whether a person is eligible for bond and the amount that must be paid.
• Master Calendar Hearings: This initial court appearance involves confirming personal information, reviewing the charges against an immigrant, and discussing the types of relief that may be available. It is not a trial, but it serves as a scheduling and procedural step during the deportation process.
• Merits Hearings: These individual hearings will allow an immigrant to present their case for relief from removal. Witnesses may testify, and documents may be submitted to support the person's arguments. The judge will make a determination based on the law and the facts presented.

Our attorneys can provide representation throughout all stages of this process. We make sure our clients will meet all applicable deadlines, and we will ensure that they are fully prepared for each hearing.

Defense Options to Prevent Deportation

There are several potential defenses that may be available to a person who is facing deportation. The attorneys at Hafey & Karim will evaluate each case and prepare the strongest available legal arguments. Options for relief may include:

• Asylum: People who fear that they will be persecuted in their home countries because of issues such as religion, race, or political opinions may qualify for protection against deportation. Our attorneys can help document past harm that an immigrant has suffered or threats they have faced, demonstrating that they have a credible reason to fear persecution.
• Cancellation of Removal: Certain long-term residents of the United States may be eligible for relief from deportation if they meet specific criteria regarding physical presence and good moral character. Our lawyers can help show that a person should not be deported because of the hardship this would cause for relatives living in the United States.
• Adjustment of Status: If a person becomes eligible for a Green Card while in proceedings, they may apply to adjust their status before the immigration judge. For example, an approval of a family-based visa may make a person eligible for a Green Card and prevent deportation.
• Waivers of Inadmissibility: These waivers may allow immigrants to remain in the U.S. despite certain immigration violations or criminal convictions. Our lawyers can prepare a detailed waiver application, providing evidence of rehabilitation and showing that family hardship will occur if a person cannot remain in the United States.
• Voluntary Departure: In some cases, leaving the U.S. voluntarily before a removal order is issued can preserve the opportunity to apply for legal immigration status in the future. Our attorneys can provide guidance on whether this may be the best option for an immigrant.

Contact Our Concord, CA Deportation Defense Lawyers

With experience in immigration law and direct knowledge of the procedures followed in the Concord Immigration Court, Hafey & Karim can provide effective legal guidance for those who are facing deportation. We work with clients to help them determine what forms of relief may be available and what steps they can take to keep their families together in the U.S. Contact our Concord removal defense attorneys and schedule a consultation by calling 214-506-0671.