Deportation Defense
Non-U.S. citizens who are charged with criminal or immigration violations may be subject to deportation. This can occur through Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) workplace raids, ICE home arrests or run-ins with local law enforcement. When ICE decides to initiate removal proceedings, the results can be unpredictable. If you or someone close to you has recently been detained by ICE and is facing deportation/removal, it is important to speak with an experienced immigration attorney as soon as possible so you understand your rights and options.
At Law Offices of Tina Sharma, we have several years of experience providing skilled deportation defense for non-U.S. citizens in Washington, D.C., Maryland and Virginia. Immigration law is our primary area of practice, and our mission is to be a strong voice for immigrants who have difficulty dealing with large and impersonal government agencies.
We understand the stress individuals go through when they (or their loved ones) are staring at the possibility of having to return to their country of origin and be separated indefinitely from the rest of the family. We have in-depth knowledge of the deportation/removal process (and particularly how criminal matters and immigration law intersect), and we put our extensive experience to work to provide the most practical and effective deportation defense to fit your circumstances.
When individuals are charged with violating their immigration status or having no lawful immigrant or non-immigrant status, they are served with a Notice to Appear (NTA) in front of the Immigration Court. There are two Immigration Court hearings: the Master Calendar Hearing and the Individual Hearing.
At the Master Calendar Hearing, the judge reviews the charges listed on the NTA, advises the individual of his/her rights, and asks how the respondent intends to plead. If the respondent intends to challenge the removability charge or apply for relief, an Individual Hearing is scheduled.
At the Individual Hearing, the respondent can argue (on the merits) his/her legal basis for remaining in the U.S. or why he/she qualifies for relief. During the hearing, the respondent is able to present evidence, call witnesses, testify on his/her own behalf and be cross-examined by the government attorney. It is strongly advised that you have an attorney present for this hearing.
If the immigration judge issues a removal order, you still have the right to appeal the decision. In many cases, filing an appeal can delay removal and allow you to remain in the U.S. while your case is under review.
When no viable relief or defense is available, voluntary departure may be a strategic alternative. This option enables you to leave the country on your own terms and avoid the long-term consequences of a removal order on your immigration record.
At the Law Offices of Tina Sharma, we know how frightening and uncertain deportation proceedings can be. Even if you don’t currently have legal status, there may be options available to help you stay in the U.S. Our experienced legal team will carefully review your case and fight for the most favorable outcome possible.
If you or a loved one has been detained by ICE or received a Notice to Appear, don’t wait to get legal support. Call us today to schedule a confidential consultation.
We proudly serve clients across the Washington, D.C. metro area, Maryland, and Virginia, including:
Arlington, Alexandria, Falls Church, Fairfax, Manassas, Annandale, Springfield, Herndon, Reston, Rockville, Gaithersburg, Silver Spring, College Park, Germantown, Frederick, Hyattsville, Bowie, Annapolis, Fairfax County, Montgomery County, and Prince George’s County.
