If you or someone you know is not a citizen of the United States, there is a very real possibility that you or that person might face deportation or removal proceedings for several reasons. More specifically, the first category of people who are not citizens or permanent legal residents of the United States and live in the US may face deportation because they are not legally entitled to be in the country in the first place. However, people who may be legally entitled to be in the US may also face deportation if it is deemed that they may have violated the conditions of their stay or legal status. In such a worrisome and stressful situation, it is best that you get in touch with an Immigration Attorney in Maryland to get these issues resolved.

What are Deportation Proceedings or Removal Proceedings?

Deportation is a serious matter. If the government in the United States wants a particular individual to be removed from the country, it initiates what is called removal proceedings, previously known as deportation proceedings. It is a set of legal procedures and hearings that take place under the direction of an immigration judge to ascertain whether or not an individual should be removed from the country.

If, at the end of the process, it is judged that a person should be removed from the US, then it is very much possible that they may not be allowed to enter the United States for many years or, in some cases, forever even if they have family members residing in the US. Hence, it is crucial to hire an immigration lawyer in Maryland as quickly as possible.

Things To Do If You or a Loved One Are Facing Deportation

So, what do you do if you find yourself in such a situation or if your loved one is in such a situation? To answer this question, we will discuss some crucial things that should set you up for a good course of action in such a situation.

1. Understand the Situation

The first thing to do is fully comprehend what is going on. It is easy to panic in such a situation, but knowing your situation can help you come up with the best response. So, check whether your situation is where someone has received a deportation order or is being detained by the authorities.

2. You can Challenge the Order

If you receive such a notice, you may be able to file a motion with the immigration court or an appeal with the Bureau of Immigration Appeals (BIA) and fight against your deportation order. However, that is not the only option available, although it is one you can take.

3. Don’t Take Action Until You Get Professional Advice

Another great advice would be to avoid saying anything to the authorities because you will have the right to remain silent. You wouldn’t want to say anything that could be used against you at a later stage. Moreover, do not sign any documents presented to you without consulting an immigration attorney near me.

4. Is it Your First Time Facing Deportation?

Do take into account whether it is your first time facing deportation or whether you’ve been in such a situation before. If you’ve been deported before, there is a high chance of being deported again. However, if you or your loved one feel afraid or unsafe about returning to your home country, you should bring that up with the ICE officer.

5. Have you been Detained?

If the government has detained your loved one at a detention facility, then your first step should be to find out where they are and get in touch with the best immigration lawyer near you because the process of deportation tends to be faster with detainees. Your lawyer will be able to guide you about the whereabouts of your loved one as well.

6. ICE has Issued a Bond

If the ICE has issued a bond, usually the best thing to do is pay it if you can. Paying the bond slows down the overall process and allows you to stay out of detention, therefore giving you a better chance at fighting your deportation and winning.

7. Considering Your Options and Looking for Relief

Depending on your situation, you can find some relief on various grounds. For example, you could apply for ‘political asylum’ if you fear going back to your country because you are not safe there. Similarly, you may be able to ask for an adjustment of your status because you have a family member, like your spouse, parents, or children, who are citizens or permanent legal residents in the United States.

Contact Jay Horowitz Today!

No matter which route you plan to take, you should always go for an immigration lawyer free consultation before you make your decision. Jay Horowitz will provide you with excellent legal advice and representation that you will need to fight your or your loved one’s removal or deportation. Get in touch now!