Removal Defense & Protection

Facing deportation proceedings or receiving a Notice to Appear in immigration court is an incredibly stressful and frightening experience for a household. Immigration court is highly complex, operating under strict federal rules where the government is actively seeking removal. Deborah Gonzalez provides steady, experienced representation before immigration courts throughout New England, standing beside you to mount a dedicated legal defense and protect your human rights

Deportation cases proceed through multiple formal stages in the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) system:

The Notice to Appear (NTA): The government issues a charging document ordering you to appear before an immigration judge.

Master Calendar Hearings: Preliminary administrative hearings where you and your attorney state your names, select your preferred language, and let the judge know what legal relief you plan to pursue.

Individual Merits Hearing: This is your actual trial. Your attorney presents your documents, examines witnesses, and argues your legal defenses. The immigration judge then decides whether you will be granted relief to remain or ordered removed.

Legal support for removal defense and protection.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common defenses against deportation?

Depending on your history, options frequently include applying for Asylum (fear of persecution), Cancellation of Removal based on severe family hardship, Adjustment of Status, or requested humanitarian protections like VAWA self-petitions or DACA.

Can an immigration court decision be reviewed?

Yes. If the immigration judge denies your case, you have a strict deadline of 30 days from the date of the decision to file an appeal with the Board of Immigration Appeals.

Common Misconceptions

The Myth: If you are placed in removal proceedings, deportation is instant, automatic, and unavoidable.

The Reality: You have constitutional rights, including the right to due process and the right to retain an attorney to defend you. You can actively fight your case, and many individuals successfully qualify for legal paths to stay in the United States.

Immigration Myths vs. Facts
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Contact Our Office to Schedule a Consultation

Choosing the wrong application track or going to court unprepared can result in critical delays or unexpected family separation. When you are ready to review your unique history and discuss specific legal options with an experienced attorney, please contact our Rhode Island office to arrange a formal evaluation.

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