San Francisco Asylum Attorneys

Assistance with Asylum Applications in San Francisco, CA

Asylum protections offer a lifeline to immigrants who are fleeing persecution or who have credible reasons to fear persecution in their home countries. Navigating the asylum process can be complex and daunting, but with the assistance of a knowledgeable immigration attorney, immigrants can take steps to demonstrate that they should receive protection against deportation.

At Hafey & Karim, we have years of experience representing clients in cases involving asylum and a wide variety of other immigration matters. We have helped many clients successfully apply for asylum, including immigrants from Haryana and Punjab, India. Whether applying for asylum while in the United States or requesting asylum protection during deportation proceedings, we can ensure that immigrants will be able to take the correct steps to protect themselves and their families from harm.

Understanding the Options for Requesting Asylum

Asylum cases can be grouped into two types: affirmative asylum and defensive asylum. Both provide a pathway for immigrants to seek protection in the United States, but they differ in terms of the application process and the circumstances under which they are filed.

Affirmative asylum may be requested by immigrants who are not in removal proceedings and are proactively seeking asylum through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). A person may apply for affirmative asylum within the first year after they initially entered the United States by filing Form I-589. The immigrant will then attend an asylum interview with a USCIS asylum officer, who will assess the credibility and merits of the claim. If the asylum officer grants the application, the immigrant will receive asylee status. If denied, the case may be referred to an immigration judge for a hearing.

Defensive asylum is sought by immigrants who are in removal proceedings, and it may provide them with protection against deportation. A person may request defensive asylum if their application for affirmative asylum is denied or if they become involved in deportation proceedings after being apprehended by immigration officials. A person's case will be heard in immigration court, and the immigrant must present evidence and testimony to support their asylum claim. An immigration judge will decide whether to grant asylum or order removal. If asylum is denied, the immigrant may appeal the decision.

How Hafey & Karim Can Assist with Asylum Applications

The asylum application process requires meticulous preparation and thorough documentation. Our experienced attorneys can provide critical support at every stage, ensuring that an asylum application is as strong as possible. We can assess the details of a case to identify the grounds for an asylum claim and demonstrate that persecution has occurred in the past or that a person has a credible fear of persecution.

Filing Form I-589 accurately and completely is essential for a successful asylum application. Our lawyers can help prepare and submit this form. We can also ensure that personal statements and supporting documents are included to demonstrate why asylum protections are necessary. We can then help a person prepare for an asylum interview or a hearing in immigration court, providing guidance on how to answer questions truthfully and confidently and ensuring that the appropriate evidence and testimony are provided to an immigration judge.

Throughout the asylum process, we will provide ongoing legal representation and advocacy. We can address any legal issues or challenges that may arise during the application process and provide representation during hearings or other legal proceedings.If an asylum application is denied, we can help file appeals or motions to reopen or reconsider a case. We will provide continuous legal support until a final resolution is reached.

Contact Our Dallas and San Francisco Asylum Lawyers

Securing asylum protections can be a critical step for many immigrants who are seeking safety and stability in the United States. The experienced attorneys at Hafey & Karim can provide invaluable legal representation in both affirmative asylum and defensive asylum cases. We work to ensure that our clients and their families will be protected from harm and that they will be able to build successful lives in the U.S. Contact our firm today and set up a free consultation.