Deportation Defense Attorney in Phoenix, Arizona
If you or a family member received a Notice to Appear or has a hearing at the Phoenix Immigration Court, it is important to act quickly. Attorney Claudia P. López represents people in removal (deportation) proceedings and explains each step in English or Spanish.
What are removal proceedings?
Removal proceedings take place before an immigration judge at the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR), part of the U.S. Department of Justice. Government attorneys from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) try to show that the person can be removed from the United States. You have the right to be represented by an attorney, but the government does not pay for one.
Possible defenses and relief
Every case is different. Depending on your history and circumstances, options may include:
Cancellation of removal for lawful permanent residents or for non-residents who meet the legal requirements.
Asylum, withholding of removal or protection under the Convention Against Torture.
Adjustment of status before the judge, when there is a basis for a green card.
Victim-based relief, such as a U visa or a VAWA petition.
Waivers, motions to reopen and voluntary departure.
Cancellation of removal: general requirements
Permanent residents: generally, you must have been a permanent resident for at least 5 years, have resided continuously in the U.S. for 7 years after being admitted, and have no aggravated felony conviction.
Non-permanent residents: generally, you must have been continuously physically present in the U.S. for at least 10 years, have had good moral character during that time, not have certain convictions, and show that your removal would cause exceptional and extremely unusual hardship to a U.S. citizen or permanent resident spouse, parent or child.
In both cases, the judge also decides whether you deserve relief as a matter of discretion. These requirements have exceptions and detailed rules; a consultation can help determine whether your case may qualify.
How the process works
Review of the Notice to Appear and your immigration and criminal history.
Master calendar hearings, where applications for relief are presented.
Preparing evidence, documents and witnesses.
Individual hearing, where the judge decides the case.
Appeal to the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA), if appropriate.
Frequently asked questions
What happens if I miss my hearing?
Missing a hearing can result in an order of removal issued in your absence. You can check your next hearing date through EOIR's official online portal or automated phone line.
Can I work while my case is pending?
It depends on the type of application you have pending. Some applications allow you to request a work permit; others do not.
Do you help people who are detained?
Call our office at (602) 918-8889 to learn about the options available for your case.
Serving Phoenix and all of Arizona
Our office is at 2323 N 3rd St #203, Phoenix, AZ 85004, and we offer phone consultations in English and Spanish. Learn more about attorney Claudia P. López or contact us.
Official sources
This information is general and is not legal advice. Immigration laws and policies change often, and every case depends on its specific facts.
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