Asylum Lawyers in Philadelphia, PA

Federal Court Capability, Hundreds of USCIS Interviews, & Two Partners Committed to Your Case

Henry & Grogan is a Philadelphia-based law firm where both partners bring hands-on asylum experience to every case. Partner Devin E. Grogan has personally attended hundreds of USCIS interviews on behalf of clients and has obtained emergency injunctions in federal court to prevent deportation. It's a remedy that not every immigration firm pursues. Founding partner Michael S. Henry has practiced law since 1987, has successfully overturned state regulations through appellate advocacy, and has cases that continue to be cited in state and federal courts. Together, they represent clients before Asylum Offices and immigration courts nationwide.

Both partners are Temple University Law School graduates who built Henry & Grogan around the belief that cost shouldn’t be a barrier to quality immigration representation. That's why we offer free initial consultations and charge affordable rates. 

If you’re evaluating asylum lawyers in Philadelphia and want to speak with a partner directly, call (215) 568-1500 for a free consultation. No commitment required.

What Is Asylum & Who Qualifies?

Asylum is a form of protection granted to individuals in the United States who have suffered persecution or fear they’ll suffer persecution because of their race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion. This protection allows those who qualify to remain in the U.S. and eventually apply for permanent residency and citizenship.

To qualify for asylum, you must demonstrate that you meet the criteria under U.S. immigration law. This includes proving a well-founded fear of persecution in your home country and that you belong to one of the five protected categories. Critically, the persecution must be carried out by the government or by groups the government can’t or won’t control. This distinction shapes how evidence is gathered and arguments are framed. The asylum process isn’t automatic; it requires substantial evidence, legal arguments, and often your testimony.

How Do You File for Asylum?

Filing for asylum involves a detailed and rigorous process. In most cases, an application must be submitted within one year of your last arrival in the U.S., though narrow exceptions exist. The process begins with Form I-589, Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal, submitted to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

After filing, you’ll be scheduled for a biometrics appointment and then an interview at an Asylum Office. That interview is a pivotal moment. The officer assesses your claim and may ask you to clarify or expand on evidence. Devin E. Grogan has been present for hundreds of these USCIS interviews alongside clients, and that firsthand familiarity with the interview room directly shapes how we prepare you for what to expect.

If the Asylum Office denies your application or you’re already in removal proceedings, your case moves to immigration court before a judge. This is called the defensive asylum path and requires a different level of courtroom advocacy. Henry & Grogan represents clients through affirmative proceedings at the Asylum Office and defensive proceedings in immigration courts across the country.

Why It’s Important to Work with an Asylum Lawyer

Navigating the asylum process without legal representation can reduce the likelihood of approval. The law governing who qualifies, what evidence meets the well-founded fear standard, and how procedural deadlines affect your case isn’t forgiving of gaps. Getting representation in place early, before Form I-589 is filed, can give your case a stronger foundation.

What sets Henry & Grogan apart from general immigration practices is a proven record of high-stakes litigation. But we haven't only sought litigation. Time and again, we've secured successful outcomes for our deserving clients. 

Devin E. Grogan has gone to federal court to stop deportations in real time, obtaining emergency injunctions when clients faced imminent removal. That level of intervention requires fluency in federal proceedings and fast-moving strategy. 

Michael S. Henry has a stellar track record throughout immigration courts in the region and has achieved landmark decisions. These are things that underscore his distinct skill and know-how. 

When you partner with our team of Philadelphia lawyers, you'll be under the care of professionals who can deliver the kind experience-backed representation you deserve in critical moments. They've achieved life-changing outcomes for numerous clients. Everything they've learned from those successes can be your advantage. 

What Happens After You’re Granted Asylum?

If you’re granted asylum, you gain the right to live and work in the U.S. indefinitely. You may also apply for a Social Security number and can petition to bring family members to the country. The legal journey doesn’t end with the grant. Family reunification, green card applications, and the path toward citizenship each involve their own filings and timelines. Our team can support you through those next steps.

Adjustment of Status for Asylum Seekers & Refugees

Individuals granted asylum or admitted to the U.S. as refugees may be eligible to apply for adjustment of status to become lawful permanent residents. After one year of physical presence in the U.S., asylees and refugees can file for a green card and begin the path toward permanent residency. This process is a crucial step in gaining long-term stability, access to broader immigration benefits, and eventually qualifying for naturalization.

Our legal team at Henry & Grogan provides guidance and representation throughout the adjustment process, helping clients gather required documentation, complete necessary forms, and avoid delays or denials that could jeopardize their status.

Appeals & Motions to Reopen

When an asylum application is denied, it doesn’t always mean the end of the road. Applicants may still have legal options through appeals and motions to reopen. Filing an appeal allows you to challenge the decision based on legal or procedural errors, while a motion to reopen can introduce new evidence or changed circumstances that may affect the outcome of your case. These filings are time-sensitive and require careful preparation.

Henry & Grogan has argued appeals before the Board of Immigration Appeals and the Third Circuit Court of Appeals, obtaining dismissals, reversals, and emergency stays of deportation on behalf of clients. If you’re uncertain where your case stands after a denial, we can assess your options and guide you through the next steps after asylum application denial.

The Difference Between Refugees & Asylum Seekers

While refugees and asylum seekers are individuals fleeing persecution, there are key distinctions in their legal pathways to protection. Refugees apply for protection from outside the U.S. and must receive approval before entering the country. Asylum seekers, on the other hand, request protection from within the country or at a port of entry. These differences affect timelines, application procedures, and available resources.

What Is Defensive Asylum?

Defensive asylum is sought by individuals who are already in removal proceedings in immigration court. This situation typically arises when someone has been detained by immigration authorities or has had their affirmative asylum application denied by USCIS. In defensive asylum proceedings, the applicant presents their case to an immigration judge, who decides whether to grant asylum or order removal from the U.S.

Frequently Asked Questions About Refugee & Asylum Legal Services

Can I Apply for Asylum at a Port of Entry?

Yes. Individuals seeking asylum in the U.S. may request it at a port of entry. At this stage, they’re often placed in removal proceedings, and a strong legal defense is critical. Our attorneys offer legal services to help you prepare your claim, navigate the interview process, and represent you throughout your case.

What Happens If My Asylum Application Is Denied?

If your asylum request is denied by an immigration judge or officer, you may have the right to file an appeal with the Board of Immigration Appeals. If the BIA denies that appeal, the matter may then be reviewed by a federal circuit court of appeals. Our asylum attorneys can assess your case and help determine the best course of legal action following a denial.

Do I Need Legal Aid for My Asylum or Refugee Case?

Yes. Applying for asylum or refugee status involves detailed documentation, strict timelines, and legal complexity that makes experienced representation an important asset. At Henry & Grogan, we handle every stage: from preparing and filing Form I-589 through Asylum Office interviews, immigration court proceedings, BIA appeals, Third Circuit review, and eventual pathways to naturalization. Free initial consultations are available so you can understand your options before committing to anything.

Not sure where to start? Your first conversation with us costs nothing.

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