What Options Do I Have?
The sudden realization that you are facing removal proceedings can be a terrifying experience. Deportation – for any reason – can be frightening no matter how much notice you have. Many people who receive a deportation letter automatically assume that the decision is made – and cannot be changed. The truth is, however, you might have additional legal options at your disposal that could allow you to continue to live and work in the United States.
Deportation, or removal proceedings, can impact different people for different reasons. Even legal permanent residents, those with a valid green card, can be deported. Certain situations such as committing marriage fraud, violating terms of a conditional permanent resident status or being convicted of a crime involving moral turpitude can result in removal proceedings.
But what can you do to protect yourself and your family?
After fully examining your situation, many attorneys will file motions to reopen and/or motions to reconsider.
Motions To Reopen
In certain situations, it might be possible to ask an immigration judge to reopen the case and review your deportation order. A motion to reopen is a brief that explains why you believe your case should be reexamined – with any relevant legal facts included. Two of the most common motions to reopen are “motion to reopen an in absentia decision” and “motion to reopen due to changed circumstances.”
Motions To Reconsider
While a motion to reopen might focus on changing circumstances or new information, a motion to reconsider takes the position that an immigration judge made a mistake and came to an incorrect conclusion regarding your deportation.
Receiving a deportation order might be a devastating occurrence in your life, but you still have options. There is still hope. You’ve built a life in the United States, and you might have legal options to battle removal proceedings. An experienced immigration attorney will carefully review your case and provide clear answers about what your next step should be. As soon as you possibly can, call a lawyer and begin building your case to continue living and working in the U.S.
