Immigration court and removal defense

If you have received a Notice to Appear, the government has started a case to remove you from the United States. That document has a date on it. Missing that date can result in a removal order entered without you present.

What happens in immigration court

Removal proceedings take place before an immigration judge. The government has an attorney. You do not get one. If you want representation, you have to arrange it yourself.

The first hearing is usually a master calendar hearing, which is short and administrative. The judge confirms who you are, what the government is charging, and what relief you might be seeking. Individual hearings come later and are where your case is actually heard.

What relief may be available

There may still be a way to stay. Depending on your history, the possibilities may include asylum, withholding of removal, protection under the Convention Against Torture, cancellation of removal, adjustment of status through a family member, or a waiver of inadmissibility.

Which of these is realistic depends entirely on your facts. Some have deadlines. Some are foreclosed by things in your record. This is the analysis we do first.

If you are detained

A person in detention may be eligible for a bond hearing. Bond decisions turn on whether the judge sees you as a flight risk or a danger, and evidence matters: community ties, family, work history, letters of support. Preparation makes a difference.

How we work

We handle Seattle Immigration Court matters and appear before the Board of Immigration Appeals. We will tell you honestly what we think your chances are. We will not tell you what you want to hear.