Asylum Attorney in Los Angeles

Understanding Asylum & TPS in the U.S.

Are you currently facing persecution or fearing persecution in your country of origin? You may be eligible to apply for asylum in the U.S. The international definition of a “Refugee,” which the United States adopted, is a person outside his or her country of nationality who is unable or unwilling to return there because of a well-founded fear of persecution on account of race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion.

Asylum is offered to individuals who fear for their safety as a result of persecution based on protected statuses. At Arnaout Immigration Law Firm, we are dedicated to helping you seek safety in the United States, away from the danger you fear in your home country.

Applying for asylum is a complex process that requires a deep understanding of U.S. immigration laws and procedures. A well-prepared application can significantly impact your chances of success. Our asylum lawyer in Los Angeles is committed to guiding you through every step, ensuring that your application is comprehensive and timely. We work diligently to gather the necessary documentation, prepare you for interviews, and provide ongoing support throughout the process. We know how critical it is to present a compelling case to the authorities, and we are here to support you every step of the way.

Turn to asylum attorneys in Los Angeles with years of experience. Contact Arnaout Immigration Law Firm at (818) 276-9900 or complete an online form. We speak English, Spanish, Tagalog, Cebuano, and Arabic.

How Does Asylum Protect Me?

Asylum can protect you from persecution based on the following:

Beyond the safety it provides, obtaining asylum status in the U.S. opens the door to numerous opportunities. Asylees can apply for work authorization, allowing them to find employment to support themselves and their families. Additionally, after a year of residing in the U.S. as an asylee, individuals are eligible to apply for permanent residency, commonly known as receiving a green card. Our firm aids clients not only in securing asylum but also in transitioning to these next stages, ensuring that all opportunities for integration and stability within the U.S. are fully realized.

The Asylum Process in Los Angeles

The asylum process in Los Angeles involves several crucial steps, beginning with the submission of an asylum application to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). After confirmation, applicants may be scheduled for an interview at the Los Angeles Asylum Office, where their fear of persecution and personal circumstances will be assessed. If the case requires further examination, it may be referred to the Los Angeles Immigration Court. Our asylum attorney in Los Angeles prepares clients meticulously for these critical stages, ensuring they are ready to present their story and evidence clearly and confidently.

Understanding the timetable is essential since initial applications must be filed within one year of arrival in the U.S., except in rare cases where legal exceptions apply. Arnaout Immigration Law Firm assists clients in compiling necessary documentation and crafting compelling narratives that effectively communicate their unique situations and needs within the regulatory framework.

Additions & Exceptions for Asylum Applications

Under U.S. law, an “Asylee” is a person who otherwise meets the refugee definition but who is either at the border or within U.S. territory. Persecution is the infliction of harm or suffering. Not all harm rises to the level of persecution. Generally, the more severe the harm, the more likely a court will find persecution. Harm could be in the form of physical, psychological, or economic, but should always be looked at cumulatively. The harm could have been inflicted in the past, or may be feared in the future.

With limited exceptions, an applicant will not be eligible for asylum unless it is demonstrated that the application was filed within one year of the foreign national’s last arrival in the United States. Asylum is a discretionary remedy that may be denied if the applicant does not merit a favorable exercise of discretion on the part of the adjudicator. Refugees and Asylees would eventually be eligible for permanent residency and, ultimately, for citizenship, if they qualify. The spouse and minor children of Refugees and Asylees would also be eligible for permanent residency and, ultimately, for citizenship, if they qualify.

What is Temporary Protected Status (TPS) in Los Angeles?

Temporary Protected Status was established to allow qualifying foreign individuals to stay in the U.S. on a temporary basis. Unlike asylum status, TPS does not allow for permanent resident status in the future. Instead, it allows an individual to stay for a designated period, depending on the exact circumstances. We can assist you in determining if you qualify for TPS and how to proceed with the application.

In 1990, the United States enacted a Temporary Protected Status (TPS) provision, which permits the Attorney General (AG) to grant temporary safe haven in the United States to foreign nationals.

• The AG may designate TPS for nationals of any country that is experiencing:
• An ongoing armed conflict poses a serious threat to personal safety
• An environmental disaster resulting in a substantial, but temporary, disruption of living conditions
• Extraordinary and temporary conditions that prevent nationals from returning safely

TPS is only granted to individuals already in the United States, usually to individuals present in the United States on the date the designation is made by the AG. It is generally not available to individuals who arrive after the date of initial designation.

While TPS is not a permanent solution, it allows individuals to live and work in the U.S. without fear of deportation for the duration of the designation. A knowledgeable asylum lawyer in Los Angeles from our team can assist with both initial applications and renewals. Our firm provides critical guidance to help clients navigate the TPS process, ensuring they understand their rights and responsibilities while living in the U.S. under this status. Whether it’s renewing TPS designation or transitioning to a different immigration status, our legal team is dedicated to finding a pathway that fits each client’s unique situation.

Seek Asylum with a Lawyer in Los Angeles, California

Seeking asylum on your own can be very difficult and requires the assistance of a caring and knowledgeable immigration attorney. Our Los Angeles immigration attorney is dedicated to protecting your rights and helping you every step of the way to gaining asylum. We can assist you with your initial paperwork to avoid mistakes, prepare you for upcoming interviews, and file an appeal if it is denied.

Los Angeles, with its diverse immigrant communities and resources, is an ideal place for individuals seeking asylum. Our firm is well-versed in the local immigration landscape and works closely with organizations in the city to provide comprehensive support to our clients. Understanding the local context, such as court locations, community support networks, and specific legal challenges faced in Los Angeles, makes Arnaout Immigration Law Firm uniquely positioned to serve those seeking refuge. We encourage anyone considering asylum to take advantage of the wealth of knowledge and resources available in our city and to reach out to us for dedicated legal support.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Requirements for Asylum in Los Angeles?

To qualify for asylum in Los Angeles, applicants must demonstrate a well-founded fear of persecution due to race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group. This fear must be supported by credible evidence of past persecution or a reasonable expectation of future persecution. Applicants need to file their asylum claim within one year of entering the U.S. unless they meet certain criteria for exceptions. Due to the complexities of asylum law, having the legal support of Arnaout Immigration Law Firm can ensure your application is complete and accurately represents your story.

How Long Does the Asylum Process Take in Los Angeles?

The time it takes to process an asylum application in Los Angeles can vary significantly. Typically, it involves several stages: application, interview, and potential hearings if referred to immigration court. Interviews at the Los Angeles Asylum Office can take months to be scheduled, and if your case goes to court, the timeline will depend on the court's caseload. On average, an asylum case could take anywhere from a few months to several years to reach a conclusion. An experienced asylum attorney in Los Angeles from Arnaout Immigration Law Firm works diligently to ensure that your case progresses efficiently and helps minimize any delays by thoroughly preparing all necessary documentation and responses promptly.

What Should I Expect During an Asylum Interview in Los Angeles?

An asylum interview is a critical component of the application process in Los Angeles. Conducted by an officer from the USCIS, the interview is an opportunity to present your case and provide evidence supporting your fear of persecution. You will be asked detailed questions about your background, experiences, and the reasons you seek asylum. It's crucial to prepare thoroughly, as the officer will evaluate the consistency and credibility of your account. At Arnaout Immigration Law Firm, we offer comprehensive interview preparation services, including mock interviews and personalized guidance, to help you feel confident and prepared for this important step.

Can I Work While My Asylum Application is Pending in Los Angeles?

Asylum applicants are eligible to apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) while their application is pending. However, you must meet certain conditions, such as having your asylum application pending for at least 150 days without a decision. Once eligible, you can submit Form I-765 to obtain the EAD, granting the ability to work legally in the U.S. With potential wait times varying based on individual circumstances and processing times, our team provides guidance to help you navigate the employment authorization process and ensure you comply with all regulatory requirements.

What Happens If My Asylum Application is Denied in Los Angeles?

If your asylum application is denied by the USCIS in Los Angeles, the case is often referred to the immigration court for further review. At this stage, you have the opportunity to present your case before an immigration judge. It's important to have an experienced asylum lawyer in Los Angeles during this phase to present a comprehensive appeal, address any deficiencies in your initial application, and potentially introduce new evidence. Our attorneys at Arnaout Immigration Law Firm are committed to advocating on your behalf, seeking every possible avenue to achieve a favorable outcome.

A denial isn’t the end—get trusted support from an asylum lawyer in Los Angeles. Call (818) 276-9900 or contact us today to take the next step forward.