Persecution can make people feel unsafe in their home countries, forcing them to leave everything behind in search of safety and freedom. For those facing such dire circumstances, asylum can provide the refuge they need to rebuild their lives and find peace. At Henry & Grogan, our team of asylum lawyers in Philadelphia, PA, is committed to helping individuals and families navigate the complex asylum application process and secure the protection they deserve.
As experienced political asylum lawyers, we will help you develop your case and provide proactive representation, whether you’re applying before the Asylum Office or the Immigration Court. Our goal is to provide the peace of mind our clients deserve. Call our law office today to speak to an asylum attorney about your eligibility for status as an asylum seeker.
Asylum is a form of protection granted to individuals in the United States who have suffered persecution or fear they will suffer persecution due to their race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion. This legal protection allows those who qualify to remain in the U.S. and eventually apply for permanent residency and citizenship.
To qualify for asylum, you must demonstrate that you meet the criteria under U.S. immigration law. This includes proving that you have a well-founded fear of persecution in your home country and that you belong to one of the protected categories mentioned above. The asylum process is not automatic; it requires substantial evidence, legal arguments, and, often, the testimony of the applicant. This is why it’s important to hire a knowledgeable asylum lawyer anytime you need to navigate the legal process.
Filing for asylum involves a detailed and rigorous process. An asylum application must be submitted within one year of your last arrival in the United States, though there are some exceptions to this rule. The process begins by completing Form I-589, Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal, and submitting it to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Once your application is filed, you will be scheduled for a biometrics appointment and, eventually, an interview at an asylum office. During the interview, an asylum officer will assess your claim, and you may be required to provide additional evidence or clarify certain aspects of your case.
If the asylum office denies your application or if you are already in removal proceedings, your case will be referred to an immigration court, where an immigration judge will review it. This part of the asylum process can be particularly challenging, as it may involve extensive legal arguments and testimony in court.
Navigating the asylum process without legal assistance can greatly affect the chances of your case being approved. After all, the laws governing asylum are complex, and the stakes are incredibly high. For this reason, it’s best to seek legal advice as early in the process as possible. An experienced asylum lawyer can help you understand your rights, prepare your application, gather the necessary evidence, and represent you in interviews and hearings.
Henry & Grogan’s team of Philadelphia immigration lawyers has extensive experience handling asylum cases. We understand the nuances of immigration law and are committed to advocating for your rights every step of the way. And, if your case is referred to immigration court, we can present your case in the best possible light to the judge and provide much-needed emotional support during this challenging time.
If you are granted asylum, you gain the right to live and work in the United States indefinitely. You may also apply for certain benefits, such as a Social Security number, and can petition to bring family members to the U.S. As an asylee, you can apply for a Green Card (permanent residency) after one year of being granted asylum, and eventually, you may become eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship.
While being granted asylum offers you a fresh start, the legal journey may continue as you seek to reunite with your family or adjust your status. An experienced asylum immigration lawyer can continue to provide support and guidance as you transition to life in the United States.
Defensive asylum is sought by individuals who are already in removal proceedings in immigration court. This situation typically arises when someone has been detained by U.S. immigration authorities or has had their asylum application denied by USCIS. In defensive asylum cases, the applicant must present their case to an immigration judge, who will decide whether to grant asylum or order removal from the United States.
Defensive asylum cases are inherently complex and often require robust legal defense. Removal defense lawyers at Henry & Grogan are well-versed in representing clients in immigration court and will advocate passionately to protect your rights and help you avoid deportation.
Seeking asylum is a critical step in securing your safety and future, but it’s not a process you should undertake alone. Our Philadelphia asylum immigration attorneys are dedicated to providing legal assistance to those seeking refuge in the United States. Whether you’re filing an initial asylum application or defending your case in court, our team is here to support you.
Contact Henry & Grogan today to schedule a consultation with a seasoned asylum lawyer in Philadelphia who can help you navigate the legal process with confidence.
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