Deportation Defense Help in Pasadena: Immigration Court Assistance for Arab Families
Understanding your rights and options when facing removal proceedings in Los Angeles County
Quick Answer
Pasadena, in Los Angeles County, is home to a diverse immigrant community including many Arab families. Facing deportation or removal proceedings is extremely stressful. Understanding your rights, the process, and available relief options is critical for anyone in immigration court.
Reviewed for accuracy by
Maria Santos
DOJ Accredited Representative • 15+ years experience
Pasadena, in Los Angeles County, is home to a diverse immigrant community including many Arab families. Facing deportation or removal proceedings is extremely stressful. Understanding your rights, the process, and available relief options is critical for anyone in immigration court.
Understanding Removal Proceedings
IMPORTANT: We are not attorneys and cannot represent you in immigration court. However, we can help you:
• Understand the process and your rights
• Prepare documents for your case
• Connect with qualified immigration attorneys
• Provide translation and interpretation services
Common Reasons for Removal Proceedings
- •Visa overstay or unlawful presence
- •Entry without inspection (EWI)
- •Criminal convictions (certain crimes)
- •Immigration fraud or misrepresentation
- •Failure to maintain valid status
- •Asylum denial
- •Removal of conditional residence
Your Rights in Immigration Court
- •Right to be represented by an attorney (at your own expense)
- •Right to review the evidence against you
- •Right to present your own evidence
- •Right to appeal an immigration judge's decision
- •Right to an interpreter
- •Right to apply for relief from removal if eligible
Forms of Relief from Deportation
| Relief Type | Who May Qualify | Key Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Asylum | Those fearing persecution | Apply within 1 year of arrival |
| Cancellation of Removal (LPR) | Green card holders | 7 years residence, 5 years as LPR |
| Cancellation of Removal (Non-LPR) | Certain undocumented | 10 years presence, exceptional hardship |
| VAWA | Abuse victims | Abuse by USC/LPR spouse or parent |
| Adjustment of Status | Immediate relatives | Eligible family relationship |
| Voluntary Departure | Those without relief | Clean record, means to depart |
The Immigration Court Process
- 1Notice to Appear (NTA)
Government issues charges and date for court appearance
- 2Master Calendar Hearing
Initial hearing to review charges and set case timeline
- 3Individual Hearing
Present evidence, testimony, and arguments before judge
- 4Judge's Decision
Immigration judge orders removal or grants relief
- 5Appeal (if needed)
Appeal to Board of Immigration Appeals within 30 days
How We Can Help
• Gathering and organizing supporting documents
• Translating foreign language documents for court submission
• Preparing applications for relief (asylum, VAWA, etc.)
• Providing certified translations of birth certificates, marriage certificates, and other vital records
• Helping you understand USCIS forms and requirements
• Connecting you with experienced immigration attorneys in Pasadena
FAQFrequently Asked Questions
Q:Can I work while in removal proceedings?
A: If you had valid work authorization before proceedings began, it may remain valid. Some forms of relief, like asylum, allow you to apply for work authorization while your case is pending.
Q:How long do removal proceedings take?
A: Cases can take months to years depending on court backlogs, complexity of your case, and whether you're applying for relief. The Los Angeles area has significant backlogs.
Q:Should I attend my immigration court hearing?
A: Yes, ALWAYS attend your court hearings. Failure to appear typically results in an order of removal in your absence, making future relief much harder to obtain.
Q:Can I stop deportation?
A: Possibly. Various forms of relief exist depending on your situation. Consult with an immigration attorney immediately to understand your options.
Q:What happens if I'm ordered deported?
A: You may have 30 days to appeal to the Board of Immigration Appeals. An attorney can advise whether an appeal is appropriate for your case.
Need Help Understanding Your Immigration Case?
Our Arabic-speaking team provides document preparation, translation services, and attorney referrals for families facing immigration court.
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