People at the highest risk of deportation include undocumented immigrants, non-citizens with criminal records, and individuals who have final orders to leave the country. Those who come into contact with law enforcement are also at greater risk.
People who seek legal representation are less likely to face deportation, which makes it extremely important to speak to a lawyer about your concerns. Our attorneys have deep experience with immigration issues, and we understand what you and your family are going through.
Our immigration lawyers work to protect the rights of immigrants and asylum seekers so they can stay in the United States, and we have served more than 100,000 clients. Call to schedule a consultation and tell us your story. We may be able to help.
Undocumented Immigrants
These are people who entered the United States without permission or who remain in the country without legal status. These individuals are at high risk of being deported, as being here without authorization is a civil immigration violation.
Federal agencies like Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) may detain and remove anyone who cannot prove they are legally allowed to stay. Undocumented immigrants may come into contact with authorities during workplace investigations or raids at home or work.
Despite these risks, an experienced immigration attorney may be able to help. Our attorneys can determine if you are eligible for legal relief and can represent you in court. Getting legal advice early can protect your rights.
Non-Citizens With Criminal Convictions
Non-citizens with criminal records represent another group at significant risk of deportation. Certain crimes are classified as deportable offenses under the Immigration and Nationality Act.
These may include:
- Drug offenses
- Domestic violence
- Theft
- Firearms violations
- Fraud or identity theft
- Aggravated felonies
In the past, immigration enforcement mainly focused on people with criminal convictions. However, many deportations still involve nonviolent offenses or minor crimes instead of serious violent felonies.
Visa Holders Who Violate Their Status
Many people enter the United States on temporary visas, such as student visas, work visas, or tourist visas. However, violating the terms of a visa can place someone at risk of deportation. Once your visa becomes out of status, you can be placed into removal proceedings.
Visa overstays represent a significant portion of undocumented immigration in the United States. Individuals who remain in the country after their visa expires may be detained and removed if encountered by immigration authorities.
People With Final Orders of Removal
People who have already received a final order of removal from an immigration judge face a particularly high risk of deportation. A final order of removal means that an immigration court has determined that you must leave the United States.
Once such an order is issued, immigration authorities can detain and remove you at any time. If you are located, deportation can occur quickly because the legal process has already been completed. Our attorneys can review your orders and determine if they are valid.
Asylum Seekers With Denied Claims
If you came to the United States seeking asylum, you can face deportation if your application for protection is denied. People fleeing persecution in their home country may apply for asylum either at the border or while inside the United States.
However, asylum claims must meet strict legal requirements, including demonstrating a fear of persecution based on protected grounds such as race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group.
If an immigration judge denies your claim for asylum and you have no other legal relief available, you may receive a removal order. In many cases, an attorney can help file an appeal with the Board of Immigration Appeals or federal courts.
Immigrants With Expired or Revoked Immigration Protections
As an immigrant, you may have previously received legal protection in the form of:
- Temporary Protected Status
- Deferred Action programs
- Parole or humanitarian entry programs
When those protections expire or are revoked, you are exposed to the risk of deportation. If this happens, reach out to an immigration attorney immediately to understand your options and proactively take action.
The Importance of Legal Representation
Deportation is not automatic in every case. Even when it seems like the legal system is working against you, U.S. immigration law provides multiple forms of relief that may allow you to remain in the country legally.
Possible defenses include:
- Asylum or withholding of removal
- Cancellation of removal
- Adjustment of status
- U visas or T visas for crime victims
- Waivers of inadmissibility
- Deferred action
Because immigration law is extremely technical, anyone facing removal proceedings should seek legal advice from an experienced immigration attorney as early as possible. Our legal team can help you understand your status and your options.
Talk to Our Attorneys Today
It’s important to understand that you have legal rights, even if you aren’t a natural citizen of the United States. Even individuals who appear removable under immigration law may qualify for legal relief. Going without legal representation often increases your likelihood of removal.
For nearly a decade, Mendoza Law has stood up for immigrants and asylum seekers. Call today to find out how Attorney Maria can help with your case.
