Removal & Deportation Defense Lawyers in Philadelphia, PA

Federal Litigation Capability. Affordable Rates. Free Consultations.

When removal proceedings begin, the attorney you choose determines how far your defense can reach. At Henry & Grogan, partner Devin Grogan has obtained emergency injunctions in federal court to halt deportations. This remedy requires federal litigation capability that many immigration firms simply don’t possess. Founding partner Michael S. Henry has been practicing law since 1987, with appellate work that has overturned state regulations and produced precedent cited in state and federal courts. That level of litigation experience, paired with affordable rates and free initial consultations, is what we built this firm around.

We represent clients before immigration courts and USCIS offices across the country, handling the full range of immigration matters, from removal proceedings and bond hearings to asylum cases and Third Circuit appeals.

If you or someone you love is facing deportation in the Philadelphia area, call Henry & Grogan today at (215) 568-1500 to schedule your free consultation.

Five Ways to Fight Your Deportation

There are multiple forms of relief that may be available depending on your circumstances. Our attorneys can assess your case immediately to identify the strongest available defense, including whether you qualify for an immigration status that allows you to remain in the country. 

The following options may apply:

• Apply for Asylum: If you fear persecution in your home country, you may be eligible for asylum. 
• Cancellation of Removal: Certain individuals who have been in the U.S. for a long time and meet specific criteria may qualify for cancellation of removal. This process involves proving continuous presence and good moral character, with separate standards for permanent residents and non-permanent residents.
• Adjustment of Status: You might be able to adjust your status to that of a lawful permanent resident if you qualify under categories such as family sponsorship or employment.
• Deferred Action: Requesting deferred action can provide temporary relief from deportation. This discretionary measure allows you to remain in the country while your case is being reviewed.
• Appeal to Immigration Appeals: If you receive an unfavorable decision, you can file an appeal with the Board of Immigration Appeals. Our attorneys can guide you through the immigration appeals process and fight tirelessly for the best possible outcome.
• Voluntary Departure: In some situations, voluntary departure may be a strategic option. Leaving on your own terms rather than under a removal order may preserve eligibility for future immigration to the U.S., including reapplying for a visa or permanent residency.

What Henry & Grogan Does that Other Firms Don’t

Many immigration firms can file paperwork and appear at hearings. Far fewer are equipped to take a case into federal court, argue before an appellate panel, or obtain an emergency injunction when deportation is imminent. 

Here’s what sets our Philadelphia deportation defense practice apart:

• Emergency Federal Injunctions: Devin Grogan has obtained emergency injunctions in federal court to prevent deportation. This is a high-stakes remedy that requires federal court admission and litigation experience beyond standard immigration practice
• Precedent-Setting Appellate Work: Michael S. Henry’s appellate advocacy has successfully overturned state regulations, a feat that's impacted legal precedent ever since. That record reflects the caliber of representation we bring to every matter.
• Hundreds of USCIS Interviews Attended: Devin has personally attended hundreds of USCIS interviews on behalf of clients, giving her firsthand knowledge of the interview process that can translate into better client preparation.
• Detention Release: We help families seek the release of detained immigrants by applying for immigration bonds and, when necessary, filing habeas corpus petitions in federal court.
• Special Immigrant Juvenile Practice: Devin has developed a distinct practice representing juveniles in state court custody and guardianship proceedings to secure Special Immigrant Juvenile status. This is an area that intersects immigration and family law in ways few firms actively handle.

Legal Rights for Immigrants Facing Deportation

Immigrants facing deportation need to be aware of their legal rights:

• You have the right to an attorney. While the government doesn’t provide free legal representation in immigration court, you have the right to hire an immigration lawyer to defend you.
• You have the right to a fair hearing before an immigration judge, which means you can present evidence, call witnesses, and challenge the government’s evidence against you. 
• You have the right to remain silent and not incriminate yourself during interactions with immigration authorities or Homeland Security officials. 
• If you’re detained, you may have the right to request bond and seek release while your case is pending. For most Philadelphia-area cases, removal hearings take place before immigration judges at the Robert Nix Federal Building in Philadelphia. Knowing that venue, its procedures, and its judges matters.

Documentation & the Risk of Removal

Even documented individuals can face deportation under certain circumstances. Having legal documentation doesn’t provide absolute protection from removal. People with valid visas, work permits, or even green cards may still be placed in removal proceedings due to specific actions or violations. Common triggers include criminal convictions, fraud or misrepresentation during the immigration process, overstaying a visa, or violating the terms of your status.

An Affordable Deportation Defense Lawyer Fighting for Individuals & Families Across PA

Effective deportation defense shouldn’t be out of reach because of cost. Henry & Grogan offers free initial consultations so you can understand your options before committing to anything, and we represent clients at affordable rates. That combination has been central to the firm since day one. Ready to start with us? 

Call (215) 568-1500 to speak with our team.

FAQs About Removal & Our Deportation Defense Services

Can Henry & Grogan Help Me Request Voluntary Departure Instead of Facing Deportation?

Yes. In some cases, our attorneys may advise pursuing voluntary departure as a strategic option to avoid the consequences of a formal removal order. This allows a person to leave the country on their own terms and may help preserve eligibility for future immigration to the U.S., including reapplying for a visa or permanent residency later. 

We can assess your situation and explain whether this path may be beneficial based on your immigration history and case status.

What Should I Do if a Loved One Has an ICE Detainer or Is Subject to an ICE Hold?

If someone you care about is facing an ICE hold, it’s critical to act quickly. Henry & Grogan provides legal assistance in cases involving detainers and ICE holds, especially when they stem from a conviction or unresolved immigration matters. We can communicate with local law enforcement and immigration authorities to advocate for the individual’s rights and seek release when possible.

How Does Prosecutorial Discretion Affect My Deportation Case?

Prosecutorial discretion is a legal tool that can be used to pause or dismiss removal proceedings for individuals who pose no threat to public safety. Our immigration attorneys know how to present information about your background, such as community ties, contributions to society, and a clean criminal record, to seek favorable discretion from DHS attorneys.

Can Henry & Grogan Help if I Have a Conviction That May Affect My Immigration Status?

Yes. We regularly defend clients whose convictions put them at risk of deportation. Some offenses that can result in deportability or inadmissibility include those involving drugs, fraud, or violence. 

Our attorneys can carefully analyze the criminal and immigration aspects of your case and develop strategies that may include waivers or post-conviction relief to protect your eligibility for asylum, temporary protected status, or a green card.

What’s the Difference Between Detained & Non-Detained Dockets?

Immigrants on detained dockets are held in ICE custody while their case is processed, often with expedited timelines and more limited access to resources. Non-detained dockets allow individuals to remain in the community during proceedings. Henry & Grogan represents both types of clients and adapts our legal approach based on the urgency and complexity of your situation, working to seek release from detention when possible.

Will I Have Access to an Interpreter in Immigration Court?

Yes. Individuals going through removal proceedings have the legal right to an interpreter during immigration court hearings. Our legal team advocates for clients’ access to interpretation services to ensure their testimony and defense are clearly communicated, and we verify that the immigration court and ICE meet their obligations under federal law.

Can Henry & Grogan Represent Minors or Unaccompanied Children in Immigration Court?

Yes. Our attorneys represent children and unaccompanied minors in removal proceedings. These cases are especially sensitive and often involve eligibility for asylum, temporary protected status, or other forms of humanitarian relief. Devin Grogan has extensive experience representing juveniles in state court custody and guardianship proceedings to secure Special Immigrant Juvenile status. This is a distinct area that combines immigration and family law and can provide a path to lawful permanent residency for qualifying young people.

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

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