Strategic and Aggressive Criminal Defense And Immigration Representation

Cleveland Immigration Lawyers Helping Those Seeking Political Asylum

People who are persecuted in their home country may qualify to immigrate to the USA and obtain asylum. If granted, asylum gives the individual or the family the right to live and work in the country and be free from oppression and danger in their home country.

The immigration lawyers of Bartell, Georgalas & Juarez, L.P.A. Co., help foreign nationals petition for political asylum. Our attorneys speak several languages, and we will do everything possible to allow you to enter the U.S. and establish roots here to escape from the dangers back home.

Do You Qualify For Asylum?

Under U.S. immigration law, 8 U.S.C. §1101(a)(42)(A), the option of asylum is available to those who are suffering from persecution based on:

  • Race
  • Religious beliefs
  • Political affiliation
  • Participation in a particular social group
  • Ethnic background
  • Nationality

Asylum allows individuals to come to the United States indefinitely in order to be relieved from the persecution that they face in their country of origin. In addition, it offers protection from deportation for those who are already present in the United States.

To speak to an experienced asylum attorney about your case, contact our Cleveland immigration law office today at 216-777-4181. We offer free consultations.

Seeking Asylum To Avoid Deportation

There are many people who come to the U.S. and enter the country without correct paperwork – often with the simple goal of survival. Once they are established in the U.S. and working, they could come under scrutiny by the immigration authorities and be threatened with deportation.

This could be a disaster, as returning to their country of origin could lead to serious consequences and sometimes death. In such a case, it is possible for your immigration lawyer to take action and help you pursue asylum, so you no longer have to worry about being deported from the country and can live and work in peace.

What Is The Difference Between Affirmative Asylum And Defensive Asylum?

There are two different types of asylum: affirmative and defensive asylum. If you’re not in removal proceedings, you may apply for affirmative asylum with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). In this process, you proactively seek protection without waiting for any deportation actions.

On the other hand, defensive asylum occurs when you request asylum as a defense against removal proceedings. This typically happens in immigration court. Whether you’re filing affirmatively or defensively, it’s crucial to present a strong case to support your need for protection in the United States.

Understanding Asylum Application Deadlines

If you are coming to the United States, then you will be able to apply for asylum at any port of entry. If you are already present in the U.S., then you will be able to file within one year of your arrival. There are some cases, however, where circumstances change after one year. In these cases, there are special provisions made so that you may have longer than one year to apply. If you have applied once before and your application was denied, then you will be barred from applying again.

Every case is unique and should be carefully evaluated by our legal team so we can correctly advise you about your options. It is important that you take action quickly, as waiting too long to apply can create more barriers and difficulties. We urge you to contact our firm so we can review and analyze your situation and determine how to best move forward with your application for asylum.

Questions about your asylum case? Call our Ohio immigration attorneys today at 216-777-4181 for a free consultations.

Seeking Asylum And The Burden Of Proof

According to 8 U.S.C. §1158(b)(1)(B), the applicant bears the burden of proof to support the claim of persecution as defined in §1101 of this same title. You must show reasonable documentation to prove the persecution you had in your country of origin and that you have a reasonable fear that the persecution would continue if you returned. Our Cleveland immigration firm has extensive experience in presenting compelling evidence to the authorities to improve your chances of being accepted into the country and to be able to continue to live and work here without fear.

What Should You Expect During The Asylum Interview Process?

An application for asylum includes an interview. During the asylum interview, you will meet with an asylum officer to discuss your application. This interview is a critical step in the affirmative asylum process. It typically takes place at a USCIS office and provides you the opportunity to explain why you need protection.

You should be prepared to answer questions about your background and the reasons you fear returning to your home country. You are allowed to bring an immigration attorney, which can be extremely beneficial as they can help clarify the process and provide support. The officer will evaluate your credibility and the details of your claim. It’s important to be honest and thorough in your responses. After the interview, the officer will review your case and make a decision based on the information provided.

What Happens After You Complete The Asylum Process?

Once you apply for asylum, several outcomes are possible. If your application is approved, you will be granted asylum, allowing you to live and work in the United States. This status also opens a pathway to permanent residency and, eventually, citizenship. If your application is not approved and you applied affirmatively, your case may be referred to immigration court, where you can pursue defensive asylum. In this scenario, a judge will determine whether you can remain in the U.S. If you apply defensively and are denied, you may face removal from the country. Throughout this process, having a supportive immigration lawyer can help you understand your options and next steps.

Consult A Cleveland Immigration Lawyer

At Bartell, Georgalas & Juarez, L.P.A. Co., we are zealous advocates for those who are persecuted in their home country. We personally want to assist them to enter the U.S. and find the freedom of religion and belief that is part of our way of life. No matter what your situation, including the threat of deportation, we can help. Our legal team is determined to pursue the best possible outcome for every client we take on.

We urge you to contact us by email or call us today at 216-777-4181. We represent asylum seekers throughout the United States, including California, Ohio and Pennsylvania.

If you are seeking asylum, we can discuss your situation with you and answer your questions and concerns. We speak several languages, including Spanish and Thai.