Deportation Defense: Every Minute Counts

Facing a deportation order is one of the most frightening experiences you can endure. Your family, your job, your entire life is at risk. At J. Lee & Associates, our deportation defense attorneys have direct experience in Georgia's immigration courts, including the Atlanta court that serves Gwinnett County. We act with the urgency your case demands.

Immigration law offers several forms of relief for individuals in removal proceedings. Cancellation of removal under INA § 240A is available to both permanent residents and individuals without legal status who have lived continuously in the U.S. for 10 years or more and have citizen or permanent resident family members who would suffer exceptional and extremely unusual hardship. Defensive asylum under INA § 208 protects those facing persecution in their home country.

If you or a family member has been detained by ICE, time is critical. You have the right to a hearing before an immigration judge and to be represented by an attorney. Do not answer questions from immigration agents without legal representation. Statements you make can be used to expedite your deportation. Call immediately at (770) 609-9396.

Steps You Should Take

1

Do Not Sign Anything without an Attorney

If ICE asks you to sign voluntary departure documents, DO NOT sign without consulting an attorney. Voluntary departure may seem attractive but it eliminates certain forms of future relief.

2

Call Immediately at (770) 609-9396

We offer emergency consultations for ICE detentions. The sooner we have your case, the more options we will have to protect you.

3

Gather Evidence of Your Life in the U.S.

Tax records, rental agreements, your children's school records, letters from employers, and evidence of community involvement strengthen your case for cancellation of removal.

4

Identify Citizen or Resident Family Members

The relationship with family members who have legal status is key to many forms of relief. Identify all family members who can support your case.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is cancellation of removal?
It is a form of relief available in immigration court. For non-permanent residents under INA § 240A(b), you must demonstrate 10 years of continuous physical presence in the U.S., good moral character, and that your deportation would cause exceptional and extremely unusual hardship to a qualifying citizen or permanent resident relative (spouse, parent, or child). Only 4,000 cancellations are granted per fiscal year.
Can I request bond if I am detained by ICE?
In many cases, yes. The immigration judge may grant bond if you do not pose a danger to the community or a flight risk. The minimum amount is $1,500. Certain serious offenses make detention mandatory without bond under INA § 236(c).
What if I have an old deportation order?
If you have an in absentia removal order, it may be possible to reopen your case if you demonstrate exceptional circumstances or that you did not receive proper notice. A motion to reopen under 8 CFR § 1003.23 generally must be filed within 180 days, but there are exceptions.
Can a DUI cause my deportation?
A simple DUI is generally not a ground for deportation on its own. However, multiple DUIs, DUI with injuries, or DUI combined with other criminal history may be classified as a crime involving moral turpitude under INA § 237(a)(2). Each case requires individual analysis.
Can my U.S. citizen children prevent my deportation?
Having citizen children does not automatically prevent deportation, but it is an important factor. Your children can be the basis for applying for cancellation of removal if you can demonstrate they would suffer exceptional and extremely unusual hardship. They can also petition for you when they turn 21.

Applicable Laws

INA § 240A / 8 USC § 1229bCancellation of removal for permanent residents and non-permanent residents with 10 years of presence.
INA § 208 / 8 USC § 1158Defensive asylum: protection for individuals facing persecution in their home country.
INA § 236(c)Mandatory detention for certain serious offenses: no right to bond.
8 CFR § 1003.23Motions to reopen deportation proceedings before the immigration court.

Related Services

Other Immigration Law Services

Case Evaluation

Talk to a deportation defense attorney today.

Schedule Consultation(770) 609-9396

1250 Tech Dr, Suite 240

Norcross, GA 30093

Don't Wait. Every Day Counts.

The law has deadlines. Protect your rights today.