Types of Relief from Removal in Houston

Protect Your Future by Calling Our Houston Immigration Lawyer

If you are subject to removal from the country, you recognize what is at stake for you and potentially for your family. There are a number of options for relief and our Houston immigration attorney can help you know your options and pursue the best remedy. By working with Simon Law Group, PLLC, you can have confidence in the zealous advocacy you deserve.

Administrative Proceedings

In many cases, you will need to fill out an administrative form to pursue relief. The administrative entities include the following:

• Attorney General
• The Secretary of Homeland Security
• Immigration officials
• The immigration courts
• The Board of Immigration Appeals

As the person seeking relief, you are regarded as the “respondent.” The document that is sent to the respondent will list the allegations made against him or her, which will shape the defense we build on your behalf.

What Are My Options?

If you are an alien with a criminal conviction, you must immediately work with an immigration lawyer in order to avoid serious immigration consequences. There are numerous other reasons for a potential removal from the country and several options for relief.

Asylum

In some cases, aliens can pursue asylum in the country if they meet all of the following requirements:

• They have a legitimate fear of persecution in their country of origin because of a protected characteristic, such as their race, religion, social group, etc.
• They are classified as a “refugee”
• They are free of a criminal record with an aggravated felony

In some cases, an alien with a criminal conviction can still pursue withholding of removal or pursue protection under the United Nations Convention Against Torture article.

Adjustment of Status

You also may be able to file Form I-485 for an adjustment of status. This would change your United States immigration status from nonimmigrant to immigrant. You would be required to meet several qualifications for a green card and file under one of the categories:

• Family based
• Employ based
• Special class of immigrant
• Humanitarian program

This is most frequently used for individuals who are married to a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, or if a family member has filed a petition on your behalf.

Suspension of Deportation & Cancellation of Removal

Cancellation of removal is a discretionary form of relief for those who are subject to removal so long as they meet the eligibility requirements. Suspension of deportation is similar to the cancellation of removal but applies only to aliens who apply under § 244 of the Immigration and Nationality Act or the Nicaraguan Adjustment and Central American Relief Act.

Get the Legal Help You Need from Your Immigration Attorney

Every case is unique and the proper form of relief will entirely depend on your situation. If you are wondering what form of relief will best benefit you, reach out to us at your earliest convenience. Whether you have been convicted in the past or are dealing with any other situation, we encourage you to speak with our Houston deportation defense lawyer at once!