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Deportation Proceedings

Guide To Deportation & Removal Defense in Houston, TX

The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) made 143,470 administrative arrests in 2017. About 92% of those arrested were convicted of a crime or had pending criminal charges. A review of the ICE statistics over the years indicates that criminal convictions account for more than half of deportations. However, those facing deportation after arrest or an illegal border crossing may have a chance to avoid it provided that they are supported by an expert immigration attorney.

Migrants detained in Houston have the right to defend themselves through an immigration lawyer and seek freedom from detention.

Who Is At The Risk of ICE Detention, Removal Proceeding

The ICE can arrest, detain, and start removal proceeding against an undocumented person residing in Texas, if

he is criminally convicted
he is facing criminal offense charges
his actions are similar to a chargeable criminal offense
he is party to fraudulent or willful misrepresentation involving a government agency
he is accused of abusing a public benefit program
he is a risk to public safety and national security
he is subject to the final removal order but ignores his legal obligation to leave the United States.

What To Do If Detained

Immigration authorities follow multiple methods to track and arrest migrants subject to removal proceedings or deportation. It may include workplace raids, highway stops, or even during visits to immigration offices. In Houston, people arrested by ICE officials are sent to the contract detention facility in the city or any other detention center or county jail approved to house such inmates. Foreigners who served their criminal sentences are also transferred to these detention centers.

As soon as one is detained or faces the potential risk of detention, it is in his best interest to consult a Houston immigration lawyer with a proven track record. The attorney can figure out if the detained person is eligible for bond and start to build his defense.

Immigration Bond

The first thing a Houston immigration attorney considers is if the detained person is eligible for posting a bond. It is the best way to get released from the detention while the removal proceeding is underway. The money for the bond should be deposited by a lawful Texas resident with valid identity and immigration proof. Known as “obligor,” he is responsible to ensure that the migrant detainee presents himself before authorities whenever required.

The bond is payable to the Department of Homeland Security and should be in the form of a cashier’s check or postal order. People without serious criminal charges or a previous history of detention stand a good chance to seek release by posting a bond. Immigration history also plays a part in the eligibility. However, the amount for a bond is set by immigration authorities. An immigration attorney determines if you are entitled to it and file a motion for a bond hearing or a reduced bond appeal.

Seeking LPR Cancellation

Talk to a Houston immigration attorney about various cancellation provisions you are eligible for.

A lawful permanent resident (LPR) staying in Texas continuously five years or more can file a motion for cancellation of removal following criminal convictions and seek a second chance. This is applicable to persons who have valid immigration documents and not charged with an aggravated felony.
A person lawfully living in the United States for 10 years or more and with a good moral character can petition for cancellation of deportation proceeding citing potential exceptional and unusual hardship to family members, who are lawful permanent residents or US citizens.

Waiver of Deportation Proceeding

There are a number of grounds where waivers are available. A waiver ends the removal proceeding and you get a chance to live in the United States. A judge takes into consideration your past record, conditions in your home country, immigration violations, and gravity of criminal charges against you while contemplating granting a waiver.

The Adjustment of Status allows one to get a waiver from removal proceeding citing his family’s lawful immigration and green card qualification. Victims of domestic violence committed by a US citizen or lawful resident can also seek waiver against deportation. With an able Houston immigration attorney representing your case, you may appeal for withholding of removal citing your eligibility for asylum or protection against persecution or torture at home.

Another option is “U” visa. A person is entitled to this visa and subsequent permanent resident status if he or she has helped authorities in the investigation and prosecution of other criminals.

If any of your loved ones facing deportation and you want an experienced and reliable immigration attorney in Houston, contact Zavala Texas Law (832) 819-3723.

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   Leidy Suarez 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Excelente servicio, del abogado Charles Zavala quiero agradecerle por el apoyo incondicional y su equipo personal, muy buenas personas!! Gracias muchas gracias que Dios los bendiga a todos una victoria ganada con mi residencia permanente! Lo recomiendo muy bonita experiencia
  
 
        
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 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Charles is a great attorney.  I strongly recommend him for all of your legal needs.  Easily 5 star!
  
 
        
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 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great attorney.  Very attentive with my case. He followed till the very end.   I will recommend him to anyone who has immigration case 100%. So that means I still will call for his services. In the future if is necessary
  
 
        
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 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. La experiencia como abogado magnífica lucho el caso hasta el ultimo minuto ,excelente ser humano , yo tengo la mejor experiencia con el abogado charles zavala , en mi caso las cosas no salieron como esperábamos pero ahi estuvo el en todo momentos con su cliente...  agradecida con usted .... lo abogados no son dioses que pueden hacer magia y poner las cosas a el favor del cliente pero que tu veas quw tu abogado esta ahi en todo momentos analizando estrategias ,buscando algo para poder ayudar a su cliente eso es un buen abogado y eso yo lo viví con el
  
 
        
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 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. If I could give 100 stars ⭐️ I would do it ! Mr Charles Zavala not only is the best lawyer, he is a great human being, he cares for his clients and families He is very knowledgeable and professional. He always responded quickly and with clear answers, straight to the point, and clarified  all our doubts. He helped us with my brother’s case, he was detained by ice, his green card was expired and his case was very difficult, with other problems, my family was devastated. He and his team, worked together with us, always explaining step by step of the process, he always maintained good communication with me, and never made feel like I was a number, he treated us with respect. Today he called us to congratulate us because we won the case and my brother is not going to be deported 🙏. He is the one who won for us 🙏Congratulations Mr Zavala and team specially Samia ! After months of anguish and crying, my mother and family can finally breathe without the pain in our heart. Thanks to Mr Zavala the best immigration attorney in the world. If you have a family member or friend in this situation and need an immigration lawyer, don’t look any further, he is the best. He also gave us a pay plan, and is affordable. THANK YOU MR CHARLES ZAVALA, AND TEAM SAMIA GOD BLESS YOU ALL !
  
 
        
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 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Excellente servicio y ayuda profesional todo el tiempo que se requeria . 100% recomendado ! Muchas gracias !! 🙏
  
 
        
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 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had an excellent experience working with Zavala and his team, I would highly recommend them to anyone in need of legal assistance. From start to finish, the entire team was incredibly professional, responsive, knowledgeable, and genuinely helpful throughout the entire process. They took the time to answer all of my questions, kept me informed every step of the way, and made me feel confident and supported during what could have been a very stressful situation. Their attention to detail, communication, and dedication to their clients truly stand out. I’m very grateful for all of their help and would absolutely recommend this firm to anyone looking for trustworthy and professional legal representation.
  
 
        
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