Asylum/Refugees

What is Asylum?

Asylum allows individuals who have suffered persecution in the past, or fear future persecution in their home country to seek protection in the United States. In most cases, asylum applications must be submitted within one year of your arrival in the United States, although certain exceptions may apply.

You may qualify for asylum based on persecution due to:

  • Race

  • Religion

  • Nationality

  • Political opinion

  • Membership in a particular social group (this is a very dynamic, constantly changing area of the law. This can include, for example:

    • Survivors of domestic violence

    • Former police or military officers

    • Small business owners

    • Individuals fleeing gang recruitment

    • Many other categories

How the Asylum Process Works

Affirmative Asylum (USCIS):

  • You apply directly with USCIS

  • You attend an interview with an asylum officer

  • A decision is made outside of court

Defensive Asylum (Immigration Court):

  • You apply while in removal (deportation) proceedings

  • Your case is heard before and decided by an Immigration Judge

  • The government will present its opposing position

We assist with:

  • Form I-589 – Application for Asylum and Withholding of Removal

  • Form I-765 - Application for Employment Authorization (applicants for asylum can apply for work authorization 150 days after receiving a receipt notice of their asylum application from USCIS)

  • Preparation of personal declarations and supporting evidence

  • Preparation for asylum interview

  • Attendance as legal representative at asylum interview

  • Immigration Court representation in defensive asylum cases

Asylum cases require detailed evidence and a clear, consistent personal statement. Supporting documents may include country conditions reports, witness statements, medical records, or other proof of harm or threats.

We work closely with clients to build strong, well-documented applications and ensure they are fully prepared for interviews or court hearings.

If you are searching for help with asylum applications, immigration court asylum defense, or protection from removal, we can guide you through this process.