Caring Advocacy For An Experienced Humanitarian Immigration And Asylum Team

Humanitarian immigration provides a lifeline for individuals facing human rights violations and other dire circumstances. Such programs offer safety, protection and the chance for a new start in the U.S. At IvyLaw Law Office, LLC, we are here for individuals who are seeking asylum or other humanitarian immigration relief. Though our office is in Greenbelt, Maryland, we are a truly nationwide immigration practice. Wherever you are in the country, our team is ready to provide you with empathetic, experienced and knowledgeable support when it comes to humanitarian immigration and asylum matters. 

What Types Of Humanitarian Immigration Relief Are Available In The U.S.?

The U.S. offers several humanitarian immigration programs, including:

• The asylum process: For individuals already in the U.S. seeking protection from persecution in their home country
• Refugee status: For individuals currently outside the U.S. who face persecution or the threat of persecution
• VAWA green cards: For victims of domestic violence by a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
• T visas: For victims of human trafficking
• U visas: For victims of certain crimes who have suffered abuse and are willing to cooperate with law enforcement

Whichever program you are considering, our legal team stands to advocate for you and help you seek protection under U.S. law.

What Are The Eligibility Requirements For Asylum In The United States?

To seek asylum in the U.S., you must be physically present in the U.S. You must also be able to demonstrate that you faced persecution or have a reasonable fear of persecution in your home country based on factors like race, religion, nationality or political opinion. We can help you build a strong case for asylum.

Understanding The Asylum Process

There are two main routes for seeking asylum in the U.S.:

• Defensive asylum: This is for individuals who are in removal proceedings. It involves requesting asylum as a defense against deportation in immigration court.
• Affirmative asylum: Asylum seekers who are not in removal proceedings have this route available instead. The steps involved include filing an asylum application with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) using Form I-589 and having an interview with an asylum officer.

Whether you are seeking asylum defensively or affirmatively, we can provide you with comprehensive help with the process. 

What Are The Benefits Of Being Granted Asylum?

Receiving asylum in the U.S. offers numerous benefits, including:

• Protection from deportation and removal
• Authorization to work in the United States 
• Being able to petition for your spouse or children to join you in the U.S.
• Being able to pursue a green card through adjustment of status after one year of being an asylee.

Given this, asylum can be a very powerful tool for securing a safe future. When you entrust your asylum case to IvyLaw Law Office, LLC, we will tirelessly strive to get you access to these key benefits.

Other Frequently Asked Questions About Asylum And Humanitarian Immigration

Is there a deadline to apply for asylum in the U.S.?

Yes. Generally, you must apply for asylum within one year of your arrival in the United States. You can apply regardless of your current immigration status. If you have been here longer than a year, you should speak with an attorney immediately to see if you qualify for an exception.

Can I get a work permit while my application is pending?

Yes, but you must wait. Under current laws, you can apply for a work permit 150 days after you file your asylum application (Form I-589). The government can grant the permit once your application has been pending for 180 days. Our office can help you track your asylum clock to see when you are eligible.

I do not live in Maryland. Can your law firm still represent me?

Yes. Because immigration law is federal, our firm can represent clients nationwide. We offer virtual consultations so you can receive legal advice from the comfort of your home, no matter which state you live in.

How do I know if I should apply for asylum, a U visa or VAWA?

The right choice depends on your specific situation. Many people apply for asylum because they are too afraid to return to their home country due to persecution based on race, religion, political opinion or other protected grounds. If that is your case, then asylum may be the appropriate option. If you have been the victim of certain crimes in the United States and have assisted law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution, you may qualify for a U visa.

Finally, if you are a survivor of domestic abuse committed by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse, parent, or child, you may be eligible to apply under VAWA. In all cases, speaking with an immigration lawyer before applying is essential, as they can evaluate your circumstances, guide you through the process, and help build a strong case before the immigration authorities.

I am undocumented. Is it safe to speak with your office?

Yes. Your privacy is protected by attorney-client privilege. This means everything you tell us is strictly confidential and cannot be shared with the government or immigration authorities. We provide a safe, judgment-free environment to help you understand your legal options.

Your Ally In The Quest For True Safety

Let us help you and your family find the right path forward from difficult and dangerous circumstances. Turn to our team for the compassionate immigration and asylum guidance you need. You can call 301-614-0811 or email us to arrange a free and confidential consultation.