Seeking Asylum in the United States | What to Know

If you are seeking asylum, it is in your best interest to retain the services of an experienced New Jersey immigration attorney. Our legal team is dedicated to walking you through this process.

What is asylum?

There are millions of people across the world that face persecution in their native countries as a result of their religion, race, social affiliation, political affiliation, or nationality. Asylum allows those who are affected by this persecution to enter the United States for safety.

How can I obtain asylum?

The two main ways in which an individual can seek asylum in the United States includes and is not limited to the following:

  • The defensive asylum process: If you are at risk of being deported and are facing removal proceedings, you might be able to request asylum as a defense from being deported. These cases are usually presented in front of immigration judges. With this process, you, your attorney, and the U.S. Government will discuss whether you qualify and whether you should be removed from the United States or not. The immigration judge has the right to decide whether you will be deported or not. However, while that is the case, you have the right to appeal the judge’s decision.
  • The affirmative asylum process: With this process, you must apply for asylum within one year of the date of your entry into the United States. In order to obtain asylum through this method, it is essential that you are physically present in the United States and not going through any removal proceedings.

What causes ineligibility for asylum?

It is important to establish your eligibility for obtaining asylum before you begin the process. Generally, being granted asylum is not easy. Below are some examples of ways in which you would not be eligible:

  • Those who are proven to have resettled in another country before arriving in the United States
  • If you have been convicted of certain serious crimes, generally involving drugs or violence
  • Anyone who has taken part in the persecution of another person due to their race, nationality, religion, and other guaranteed freedoms
  • Those convicted of a serious nonpolitical crime outside of the United States
  • Anyone prepared to pose a danger to the security of the United States

Do not hesitate to reach out to our firm today to discuss the specifics of your situation and how we can best serve you.

Contact an Experienced Immigration Attorney in NJ

If you or a loved one is facing challenges presented by immigration laws in the United States, our firm can help. No matter the situation, we are ready to assess your case and give you trusted legal advice. With so much on the line, it is important to work with a legal team you can count on. Our firm is committed to staying up to date on all of the changes being made to immigration law in the United States. We make it a priority to know how these changes may impact our clients. Contact the Law Offices of Christopher T. Howell, Esq. today to discuss your case.