⚖️
Removal Defense
Removal defense includes representation in immigration court, filing motions to cancel removal, defensive asylum applications, and obtaining various forms of immigration relief. It is critical to act quickly upon receiving a Notice to Appear (NTA) in court.
📋Grounds for Defense
- •Cancellation of Removal: 10+ years in the U.S., good moral character
- •Cancellation for residents: 7+ years of residence, green card 5+ years
- •Asylum (defensive): persecution on 5 protected grounds
- •Withholding of Removal: higher standard of proof
- •CAT Protection: threat of torture upon return
- •Voluntary Departure: voluntary exit instead of removal
- •Prosecutorial Discretion: case closure by prosecutor
📄Required Documents
- •Notice to Appear (NTA)
- •All prior immigration documents
- •Evidence of residence in the U.S. (bills, lease, employment)
- •Evidence of good moral character
- •Documents showing family ties in the U.S.
- •Medical records (if applicable)
- •Evidence of hardship to qualifying relatives
⏱️Timeline
- •Master hearing: first appearance 1-6 months after NTA
- •Merits hearing: 6-36 months after master hearing
- •BIA appeal: 6-12 months
- •Circuit Court appeal: 12-24 months
- •Important: missing a hearing may result in an in absentia removal order
💰Costs
- •Government fees: vary by motion type
- •Bond: $1,500 - $25,000+
- •Attorney fees: $5,000 - $25,000+ (varies by complexity)
- •Translations and expert reviews: $500 - $3,000
⚖️
Need an Attorney?
Find a verified immigration attorney specializing in this practice area.