|
Client Facing Deportation? |
If you or a family member faces the chance of being deported for immigration violations or criminal charges, contact the Law Firm of Jonathan A. Bartell immediately for the best representation available. You have significant legal rights, whether you here as a legal permanent resident, on a non-immigrant visa, or in the U.S. illegally.
Based in Cleveland, Ohio, this firm proudly serves clients throughout the state of Ohio and represents clients nationwide in all immigration law matters.
Deportation / Removal
"Removal" and "deportation" are two words that strike fear into the heart of any immigrant in the United States. Both terms refer to the same process. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS, formerly known as INS) defines deportation as: "The formal removal of an alien from the United States when the alien has been found removable for violating the immigration laws." A person can be deported for:
- Certain criminal convictions
- Overstaying a visa
- Entering the U.S. illegally
Removal Proceedings
Removal hearings are heard before an immigration law judge, who can order deportation. Criminal proceedings are a separate procedure. There is no punishment with removal itself, other than being transported out of the country and barred from re-entry for a specified period of time.
If you have been detained or questioned by the USCIS or U.S. Customs, it is important to contact an attorney as soon as possible. The Law Firm of Jonathan A. Bartell may be able to negotiate terms to avoid a removal hearing. If you are summoned to a deportation hearing, it is critical to appear. Mr. Bartell will be at your side throughout the process to protect your rights and promote your interests, for as long as it takes.
Criminal Charges May Lead to Removal!
If you are a legal immigrant charged with any crime, you should contact an attorney. Jonathan Bartell practices both immigration law and criminal defense and can advise you about the immigration consequences of a conviction or guilty plea. You may be in jeopardy of removal proceedings if you are charged with an aggravated felony, or for two misdemeanor convictions. Many misdemeanors may qualify as an aggravated felony under current Immigration law, including drunk driving, domestic violence, and theft.
Legal Options after a Removal Order
Even if an immigration judge has ordered your removal, you may still have legal recourse:
- Voluntary departure: Leaving the country within a specific time frame at your own expense avoids the "removal" stigma and increases your chances of future re-entry.
- Cancellation of Removal: The Bureau of Immigration Appeals can cancel your removal order under certain circumstances, enabling you to stay in the U.S.
- Asylum: If you can prove that returning to your home country would put you in danger, you may be eligible for asylum as a refugee
- Adjustment of Status: Earning legal permanent resident status (instead of non-immigrant status) may enable you to avoid removal in some cases, or reduce the exclusion period for re-entry.
Jonathan Bartell has handled many cases before the BIA and can explain all of your rights, the removal process, and the circumstances under which your deportation can be cancelled or stayed.
You need an experienced immigration attorney at your side in immigration court. Call 866-673-7864 (toll-free) day or night to speak with a deportation defense attorney about your case. The initial consultation is free and services are provided in Russian, Thai and Laotian languages.
