Seeking Stability in an Increasingly Unstable Situation

There’s no denying that America is only as successful as it is today because of immigrants. Over time, people immigrating from other countries have come to the United States to build a life and add to what makes our country special. Unfortunately, such contributions are often ignored. That’s why it’s important to know how to handle deportation defense for non-permanent residents in Fresno.

Our current political reality means that arbitrary changes can completely upend the lives of individuals and families. Overnight, a new government taking over can result in hard-working individuals who contribute to the American economy facing deportation proceedings. Fortunately, non-permanent residents in Fresno may have options. With these strategies, avoiding deportation may be possible.

Understand the Grounds for Deportation

There are many important steps for avoiding deportation, but they may not all apply to your specific situation. That’s why it’s important to understand the grounds for your deportation order. This will dictate the best way to handle deportation defense for non-permanent residents in Fresno. These residents may face deportation for several reasons, including:

  • Overstaying a visa
  • Committing certain crimes
  • Violating immigration status terms
  • Engaging in unauthorized employment

Identifying the specific grounds cited in your case is vital for determining the most effective defense strategy. For instance, a person who overstayed a visa will need to rehabilitate their immigration status by showing eligibility for some type of waiver, adjustment of status, or relief.

Conversely, a person who worked without authorization should focus on minimizing the perceived severity of unauthorized work. Understanding what you’re up against is critical for effectively fighting removal orders.

Explore Potential Defenses

Once you understand the reasoning behind the government’s attempt to deport you, you can start building a legal strategy to avoid such an outcome. Many potential deportation defenses in Fresno overlap between different grounds for deportation. Depending on the unique circumstances of your case, one of the following defenses may prove effective:

  • Cancellation of removal: Possible for long-term non-permanent residents who have good moral character
  • Asylum: Potential remedy for individuals fearing persecution in their home country due to certain protected statuses
  • Adjustment of status: Immigrants with a qualifying relative who is a U.S. citizen or permanent resident may be able to adjust their status
  • Voluntary departure: In some instances, voluntary departure can be a strategic choice that facilitates future reentry

While any of these deportation defense strategies can prove effective, it’s important to remember that they’re not one-size-fits-all. You need a strategy that focuses on the issues relevant to your situation. An experienced immigration lawyer can review your case and help you choose the defense strategy that’s most applicable to your case.

Stay Informed and Prepared

From adjustment of status to cancellation of removal, there are a variety of potential avenues of deportation defense for non-permanent residents in Fresno. However, none of these approaches will be effective if you do not put the necessary time and energy into your case. There’s a lot that an attorney can do for you, but you still need to stay abreast of what’s going on.

For instance, it’s critical that you attend all hearings that you’re required to show up for. Missing even one court date could result in an automatic removal order. You should also take time to compile evidence that supports your defense and stay updated on changing immigration laws and policies. Regularly checking with your attorney is critical during this time.

Decide if You Qualify for Crime Victim Protection

Many people don’t realize that they qualify for protection as victims of crimes. This could potentially stop deportation proceedings in their tracks. However, it’s important to remember that there are strict eligibility requirements for these options. If you believe you qualify, you’ll need to provide evidence that you’re eligible for one of the following remedies:

  • U Visas: Individuals who are the victims of qualifying crimes may be able to obtain a U Visa if they offer assistance to law enforcement agencies
  • T Visas: Victims of human trafficking can avoid deportation if they can prove their eligibility
  • VAWA Petitions: An individual who suffers abuse at the hands of a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse/parent may petition to stay in America

Perhaps the biggest hurdle to deportation defense for non-permanent residents in Fresno is a lack of knowledge. This doesn’t mean that the individual doesn’t understand the severity of their situation; it simply means they don’t know all the legal avenues available to them. Such situations result in individuals being deported when they have legitimate options for staying in America.

The best way to prevent such an outcome is to have an experienced legal professional on your side.

Seek Legal Assistance

Once you know you’re being targeted for deportation, every step you take can have a significant impact on the final outcome of your case. Sadly, someone could follow all the aforementioned strategies and still find themselves unable to avoid deportation. In many instances, this occurs when non-permanent residents attempt to navigate the immigration system on their own.

In America, the law doesn’t require anyone to seek legal help. However, government officials are hoping you don’t pursue assistance from an immigration attorney. Deciding to not secure legal representation makes the job of deportation prosecutors much simpler, but an experienced attorney can help you understand your rights and options under the law.

At Bains Law Office, we frequently assist non-permanent residents in Fresno with deportation defense. Contact us at 559-282-8924 to schedule a consultation today.