Overview
Facing removal (deportation) proceedings can be overwhelming. At Wakrim Law Firm, our Boston-based immigration defense team provides skilled advocacy to challenge removal charges, secure relief, and keep families together. We handle bond hearings, merits hearings, appeals to the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA), and federal court litigation when necessary.
Common Grounds for Removal
- Criminal Convictions: Certain misdemeanors and aggravated felonies can trigger inadmissibility or deportability.
- Visa Violations: Overstaying a visa, unauthorized work, or status misrepresentation.
- Fraud & Misrepresentation: False claims in your application or during inspection at the port of entry.
- Failure to Depart: Ignoring a final removal order.
- Public Charge & Welfare Fraud: Reliance on certain public benefits may result in removal proceedings.
Our Defense Strategies
- Motion to Terminate: Argue the Department of Homeland Security lacks proper grounds or evidence for removal.
- Cancellation of Removal: For non–permanent residents with ten years’ continuous presence, good moral character, and extreme hardship to qualifying relatives.
- Adjustment of Status: Seek relief through a family- or employment-based petition if eligible.
- Asylum & Withholding: File for protection if you fear persecution or torture in your home country.
- Waivers: Apply for cancellation or adjustment waivers (I-601, I-602) to forgive past missteps.
- Appeal & Motion Practice: File appeals with the BIA or motions to reopen/reconsider on new evidence or changed law.
Our Removal Defense Process
- Initial Consultation (Within 7 days)
Review your Notice to Appear (NTA), criminal history, and immigration status to determine all possible defenses. - Case Investigation (2–4 weeks)
Collect criminal court records, witness statements, and country-condition reports. Consult with experts where needed. - Preliminary Filings (1–2 months)
Prepare and file motions to terminate or continuances to buy time until relief applications are ready. - Relief Applications (3–6 months)
Draft and submit applications for cancellation of removal, asylum, adjustment of status, or waivers, along with supporting affidavits and evidence. - Master Calendar & Individual Hearings
Represent you at all immigration court hearings—from master calendar status conferences to merits hearings—arguing your case persuasively. - Appeals & Federal Litigation
If denied, file appeals to the BIA within 30 days, and if needed, pursue petitions for review in the U.S. Court of Appeals.
Timeline & Typical Fees
| Service | Estimated Timeline | Fee Structure |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Consultation | Within 1 week | Flat fee |
| Case Investigation | 2–4 weeks | Hourly |
| Motions to Terminate/Continue | 1–2 months | Flat or hourly |
| Relief Application Preparation | 3–6 months | Flat fee |
| Master Calendar & Hearings | Ongoing over case life | Hourly |
| Appeals/Motions Practice | 1–6 months per motion | Hourly |
Fees vary by case complexity. A detailed engagement letter with all costs is provided before proceeding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a Master Calendar Hearing?
A preliminary court appearance where procedural issues are addressed and relief applications are filed.
Q: Can I apply for cancellation of removal?
Non–permanent residents with at least ten years of continuous presence, good moral character, and U.S.-resident family hardship may qualify.
Q: How soon must I appeal a removal order?
You must file a Notice of Appeal to the BIA within 30 days of the immigration judge’s final order.
Q: Do I need to be detained to receive removal defense?
No—whether detained or released on bond, you have the right to legal representation and to pursue relief options.
Q: What is a bond hearing?
A bond hearing determines whether you can be released from detention pending your removal proceedings.
Q: Can prior orders be reopened?
Yes—motions to reopen or reconsider may succeed if you present new evidence or changes in law.
Q: What if I’m already outside the U.S. with a removal order?
You may file for reopening with the BIA or seek consular hardship waivers before attempting to return.
Q: How do criminal convictions affect my case?
Our team analyzes conviction records to identify lesser grounds for removability or eligibility for waiver relief.