Deportation Defense Lawyers in Philadelphia

Facing Removal? Work with Lawyers Who Handle Federal Injunctions & Appeals

When removal proceedings begin, prompt legal review can shape the defenses and procedural options available in your case. A Notice to Appear starts the process by listing the government’s allegations and immigration-court requirements. At , partner Devin E. Grogan has obtained emergency injunctions in federal court to prevent deportation when federal litigation is appropriate. Founding partner Michael S. Henry has practiced law since 1987, with appellate work that has overturned state regulations and produced precedent cited in state and federal courts.

We represent clients before immigration courts and USCIS offices across the country, handling removal proceedings, immigration bonds, asylum cases, appeals, and related immigration matters. The right strategy depends on your immigration history, criminal record, family circumstances, prior applications, custody status, and the posture of the case.

If you or someone you love is facing deportation in the Philadelphia area, call to schedule your free consultation.

Six Ways to Fight Deportation

Our attorneys can assess the government’s allegations, your records, and the relief you may be eligible to seek in removal proceedings.

The following options may apply:

• Apply for Asylum: If you fear persecution in your home country, you may be eligible for asylum, withholding of removal, or protection under the Convention Against Torture, depending on the facts and legal standards that apply.
• Cancellation of Removal: Certain individuals who have been in the United States 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 may be able to adjust your status to that of a lawful permanent resident if you qualify through a category such as family sponsorship or employment and meet the applicable requirements.
• Prosecutorial Discretion: A request for Prosecutorial discretion or deferred action may be available in some matters. These are discretionary forms of relief that require a careful review of the facts, procedural posture, and current government policy.
• Appeal or Motion Practice: If you receive an unfavorable decision, you may be able to appeal to the Board of Immigration Appeals or pursue a motion to reopen or reconsider when legally available. We represent clients in appeals before the Board of Immigration Appeals and the Third Circuit Court of Appeals, where applicable deadlines and procedural rules matter.
• Voluntary Departure: In some situations, voluntary departure may be a strategic option. It carries consequences that differ from a formal removal order, so it must be evaluated against your immigration history and future plans.

Federal Litigation & Appellate Advocacy in Removal Defense

Removal defense can involve immigration-court proceedings, detention issues, appeals, and, in limited circumstances, federal-court litigation. Federal relief is separate from ordinary immigration-court proceedings and can depend on jurisdiction, timing, exhaustion of available remedies, and the government action being challenged.

Our removal-defense capabilities include:

• Emergency Federal Injunctions: Devin E. Grogan has obtained emergency injunctions in federal court to prevent deportation.
• Appellate Advocacy: Michael S. Henry’s appellate advocacy has successfully overturned state regulations, and his cases continue to be cited in state and federal courts.
• Hundreds of USCIS Interviews Attended: Devin has personally attended hundreds of USCIS interviews on behalf of clients, bringing direct familiarity with the interview process and 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 represents juveniles in state-court custody and guardianship proceedings to pursue Special Immigrant Juvenile status.

Legal Rights During Philadelphia Removal Proceedings

The Philadelphia Immigration Court is the local venue for many removal proceedings in the area. Whether a person is detained or not, the court process can involve hearings, evidence, interpretation needs, and deadlines that require close attention.

Key procedural rights and concerns include:

• You have the right to an attorney: The government doesn’t provide appointed counsel in immigration court, but you may hire an immigration lawyer or seek an accredited representative at no expense to the government.
• You may present and challenge evidence: You can present evidence, call witnesses, and challenge the government’s evidence before an immigration judge.
• You may remain silent: You can choose not to make statements that may incriminate you during interactions with immigration authorities or Homeland Security officials.
• You may have access to an interpreter: Immigration court provides an interpreter at government expense when a respondent’s English is not adequate to understand and participate in the proceedings.
• Detention and bond require separate attention: Bond proceedings are separate from the underlying removal case. We represent detained and non-detained clients and assist with immigration bonds and detention-release efforts when available.

Documentation & the Risk of 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.

The immigration consequences of a conviction or alleged violation, including offenses involving drugs, fraud, or violence, depend on the offense, sentence, record of conviction, immigration status, and applicable law. We can analyze the criminal and immigration issues, including whether waivers or other relief may be available. A prior application, admission, entry, or alleged violation may require review of the underlying records rather than relying on a summary description.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Do About an ICE Detainer?

If someone you care about faces an ICE hold or detainer, seek legal advice promptly. We can review the person’s custody and immigration circumstances and pursue available detention-release options.

What Is the Difference Between Detained and Non-Detained Dockets?

People on detained dockets remain in ICE custody while their cases proceed. These cases can involve different scheduling, evidence, and access concerns than non-detained matters. represents both detained and non-detained clients and assists families seeking release through immigration bonds or, when necessary, habeas corpus petitions in federal court.

An Affordable Deportation Defense Lawyer for Individuals & Families Across PA

Effective deportation defense shouldn’t be out of reach because of cost. offers free initial consultations so you can understand your options before committing to anything, and we represent clients at affordable rates. A consultation can identify the immediate procedural issue, documents needed for review, and whether custody, court, appellate, or federal-court concerns need attention.

Call to speak with our team.

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

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