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Deportation
Strategic Legal Defense in U.S. Removal Proceedings
Deportation, also known as removal, is one of the most serious actions the U.S. government can take against a non-citizen. It can threaten not only your right to remain in the country but also your family stability, employment, and future immigration options.
At SJKP LLP, we provide skilled, aggressive defense for individuals and families facing deportation or removal proceedings. Our attorneys have represented clients in complex cases involving visa overstays, criminal convictions, asylum denials, and alleged immigration fraud. We combine deep legal knowledge with a compassionate understanding of what’s at stake—your life, your loved ones, and your future in the United States.
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1. Understanding Deportation and Removal Proceedings
The Legal Framework Behind U.S. Deportation
In U.S. immigration law, the term “removal” refers to the legal process used to determine whether a non-citizen should be expelled from the country. The process is conducted in Immigration Court before a judge from the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR).
Unlike criminal court, removal proceedings are civil in nature—but the consequences can be just as severe. A final removal order can lead to mandatory departure, permanent inadmissibility, and even barred reentry for years or life.
Common Causes of Deportation
- - Overstaying a visa or entering without authorization
- Conviction of a felony or “crime of moral turpitude”
- Filing fraudulent immigration documents or misrepresentation
- Denial of asylum or adjustment of status
- Violating visa conditions (e.g., unauthorized employment)
- Failing to comply with a voluntary departure order
Each case is unique. Sometimes a single administrative error or misunderstanding—such as missing a court hearing—can trigger deportation proceedings.
2. The Deportation Process Explained
From ICE Detention to Immigration Court
Deportation typically begins when Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrests or detains a non-citizen. Once detained, the person is served a Notice to Appear (NTA), which formally starts the removal process.
Step-by-Step Overview
- 1. ICE Detention: The individual is taken into custody pending review.
2. Bond Hearing: The immigration judge may set a bond allowing release during proceedings.
3. Master Calendar Hearing: Initial court appearance where charges are read and pleas entered.
4. Merits Hearing: The core trial where evidence and defenses are presented.
5. Final Order: The immigration judge decides whether removal will occur or relief will be granted.
Our attorneys intervene immediately after detention to secure bond release, challenge improper charges, and build comprehensive defenses before the merits hearing.
3. Criminal Grounds for Deportation
How Convictions Impact Immigration Status
Criminal convictions are among the most common and complex triggers for deportation. Even relatively minor offenses can lead to severe immigration consequences if classified as “aggravated felonies” or “crimes involving moral turpitude.”
Examples of Deportable Crimes
- - Drug trafficking or possession offenses
- Domestic violence or assault
- Fraud, theft, or embezzlement
- Firearms violations
- Driving under the influence (DUI) in certain aggravated cases
It’s crucial for non-citizens facing criminal charges to consult both a criminal defense attorney and an immigration lawyer before entering any plea. The right strategy may avoid deportation entirely by negotiating non-removable alternatives.
4. Legal Defenses Against Deportation
Fighting to Remain in the United States
Being placed in removal proceedings does not automatically mean deportation will occur. U.S. immigration law provides several defenses and relief options that may allow you to stay in the country legally.
Common Forms of Relief Include
- - Asylum or Withholding of Removal: For individuals fearing persecution based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or social group.
- Cancellation of Removal: For lawful permanent residents (LPRs) or non-LPRs who meet specific residency and good moral character requirements.
- Adjustment of Status: If eligible for permanent residency through family or employment petitions.
- Temporary Protected Status (TPS): For individuals from countries designated due to war or disaster.
- Deferred Action: A form of prosecutorial discretion delaying removal under humanitarian grounds.
Our firm meticulously evaluates eligibility under each form of relief and prepares persuasive evidence to present before the immigration judge.
5. ICE Detention and Bond Hearings
Securing Release While Fighting Your Case
When detained by ICE, time is critical. Our attorneys act immediately to request a bond hearing—a process where we argue before an immigration judge that you are neither a flight risk nor a danger to the community.
During a Bond Hearing, the Judge Considers
- - The severity of the alleged immigration violation
- Criminal record and prior compliance with immigration rules
- Family ties, employment, and community involvement
- Financial ability to post bond
If bond is granted, you can continue your case while living freely rather than being held in detention. SJKP LLP has extensive experience obtaining favorable bond decisions, even in complex or high-risk cases.
6. Special Considerations for Work-Related Violations
When Employment or Documentation Triggers Removal
Many deportation cases stem from employment-related issues—such as unauthorized work, visa fraud, or misrepresentation on immigration forms. These allegations can carry serious consequences but can often be mitigated through early intervention.
Examples Include
- - False claims of U.S. citizenship on employment forms
- Use of invalid Social Security numbers
- Misrepresentation in work visa or green card applications
- Fraudulent employer sponsorships
Our attorneys work with clients and employers to correct documentation errors, file motions to reopen cases, and pursue waivers of inadmissibility when available.
7. Appeals and Post-Removal Options
When You Receive a Final Order of Removal
If the immigration judge issues a Final Order of Deportation, it’s not necessarily the end. You may still be able to file appeals or motions that can stop or delay removal.
Key Legal Remedies Include
- - Appeal to the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA): Must be filed within 30 days of the final order.
- Motion to Reopen or Reconsider: To present new evidence or correct legal errors.
- Stay of Removal: A request to temporarily suspend deportation while your appeal is pending.
- Petition for Review: Filed in federal court for constitutional or legal issues.
Each case is time-sensitive and procedurally strict. Acting promptly with experienced counsel can preserve your legal rights and, in many cases, prevent immediate deportation.
8. Protecting Your Rights During Deportation Proceedings
Due Process and Legal Representation
Even though removal proceedings are civil, non-citizens have fundamental rights under the U.S. Constitution. You are entitled to:
- - Notice of charges and access to evidence against you.
- Representation by counsel (at your own expense).
- An opportunity to present evidence and witnesses.
- Appeal of unfavorable decisions.
SJKP LLP ensures that every client’s procedural and constitutional rights are protected at every stage—from ICE detention to appellate review.
9. Why Legal Representation Makes the Difference
Building a Strong Defense and Securing Relief
Statistics show that immigrants represented by counsel are five times more likely to obtain relief or remain in the U.S. than those who face proceedings alone. Our firm’s immigration team brings both compassion and strategy to every case—recognizing that deportation isn’t just a legal matter, but a deeply human one.
What SJKP LLP Provides:
- - Immediate intervention following ICE detention
- Skilled representation at bond and merits hearings
- Appeals and motions to reopen denied cases
- Collaboration with criminal defense and asylum counsel
- Personalized legal strategy based on family, employment, or humanitarian relief
Our mission is clear: to defend your right to stay in the United States and secure the stability you and your family deserve.
The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading or relying on the contents of this article does not create an attorney-client relationship with our firm. For advice regarding your specific situation, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.
Certain informational content on this website may utilize technology-assisted drafting tools and is subject to attorney review.
