Deportation Defense Lawyer

Deportation, legally referred to as removal, is one of the most serious actions the U.S. government can take against a non-citizen. It occurs when immigration authorities determine that an individual must leave the country due to a violation of immigration law, criminal activity, or other grounds of inadmissibility or deportability.

The effects of deportation go beyond physical removal. It can sever family ties, terminate careers, interrupt education, and impose long-term or permanent bans on reentry. But removal is not always final. U.S. immigration law provides several defenses and legal avenues to fight deportation and seek relief.

If you or a loved one is facing removal, you need a seasoned deportation defense lawyer who understands the legal landscape, can present strong arguments in court, and knows how to pursue every form of available relief.

Who Can Be Deported?

Deportation can affect any non-citizen—not just undocumented immigrants. Even those with lawful status are at risk under certain circumstances. This includes:

Individuals who may be at risk include:

Green Card Holders (Lawful Permanent Residents)
Visa Holders, including student, work, or visitor visas
Undocumented Immigrants
Refugees and Asylees
Individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS)

Deportation may be triggered by criminal convictions, visa violations, fraud, or status changes. Even lawful residents may face removal if they are convicted of certain crimes or violate immigration conditions.

Common Reasons for Deportation

Understanding the most common grounds for removal can help individuals assess their risk and act early:

Conviction of crimes such as aggravated felonies, drug offenses, or crimes involving moral turpitude
Marriage fraud or other immigration-related fraud
Smuggling or assisting unlawful entry
Unauthorized employment
Visa overstays or status violations
Security or terrorism-related grounds
Loss of asylum or TPS eligibility
Receiving public benefits within the first five years of permanent residency in limited, specified cases
Failing to update address with USCIS (as required under INA § 265)

Even small mistakes like an unreported visa overstay or a missed USCIS update can escalate into deportation proceedings. Therefore, early legal intervention is key.

If you have been contacted by immigration authorities, received a Notice to Appear (NTA), or are concerned about your status, it is critical to speak with an experienced immigration lawyer promptly.

How Long Does the Deportation Process Take

Deportation is not immediate. Most individuals are entitled to a hearing before an immigration judge. The process can last months or even years, depending on:

Immigration court backlogs and hearing schedules
Whether you are detained or released
Whether you pursue relief (e.g., asylum or cancellation of removal)
Whether you file appeals or motions to reopen your case
The complexity of your case and whether it involves criminal issues

The deportation process can be unpredictable. For those actively contesting removal, it can take many years before a final decision is made. Acting quickly and strategically with a deportation lawyer can help maximize time and fight removal effectively.

How to Stop a Deportation Order and Stay in the U.S.

Being placed in deportation proceedings does not mean immediate removal. There are several legal defenses that may allow you to stay in the U.S.

You may still be eligible for relief, including:

Cancellation of Removal

One of the strongest forms of relief is cancellation of removal, which allows certain immigrants to have their deportation order revoked if they meet specific legal criteria. This option is available for lawful permanent residents (LPRs) and non-permanent residents who can prove hardship, good moral character, or other qualifying factors.

Motions to Reopen or Appeal

If a deportation order has already been issued, there may still be a chance to challenge the decision through an appeal or a motion to reopen the case. This is especially effective if:

New evidence has emerged that could impact the outcome
Immigration authorities made an error in the process
You were denied legal representation or not properly notified

U Visa or T Visa Protections

Victims of certain crimes (U visa) or human trafficking (T visa) may qualify for relief from deportation. These visas are designed to protect immigrants who assist law enforcement or demonstrate they were trafficked into or within the U.S.

Waivers for Certain Grounds of Removal

Depending on the circumstances, certain deportation grounds—such as criminal convictions or visa violations—may be waived through legal petitions. Waivers can allow individuals to remain in the U.S. despite previous immigration infractions.

Adjustment of Status

In some cases, an immigrant may be eligible to change their legal status rather than face removal. This could involve applying for a green card, obtaining asylum protections, or securing other forms of relief.

Asylum & Refugee Protections

If returning to your home country would put you at risk of persecution based on factors like race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group, you may be eligible for asylum. Asylum allows you to stay in the U.S. if you can prove that you would face harm if returned to your country

Each of these defenses must be carefully handled, and it is important to have experienced legal counsel to present these options effectively before an immigration judge.

Why Choose Odunlami Law Firm?

Choosing the right attorney for your immigration case is a pivotal decision that can have lasting implications for you and your family. With so many options available, it is important to select a law firm that combines deep knowledge of immigration law with practical experience and a genuine commitment to your case. Here is what sets us apart:

Focused Immigration Practice

We exclusively handle immigration cases, ensuring deep knowledge of immigration statutes, policies, and evolving case law.

Extensive Experience with Complex Deportation Cases

We represent clients in:

Immigration court
BIA appeals
Federal court challenges

Whether it’s your first hearing or you’re pursuing post-order relief, we can help.

Compassionate and Strategic Advocacy

We understand the human side of immigration. We’ll keep you informed, prepare you for court, and stand by you every step of the way.

Why You Need a Deportation Defense Lawyer

Immigration law is one of the most dynamic and challenging areas of U.S. law. You may have only one opportunity to present your defense. Missing a deadline or failing to raise the right arguments could mean losing your chance to stay in the U.S. permanently.

At Odunlami Law, we understand what is on the line. Whether you are at the beginning of the process or already have a removal order issued against you, our legal team will:

Carefully review the charges against you and identify legal grounds to challenge removal
Explore all forms of immigration relief, including asylum, cancellation of removal, waivers, adjustment of status, and more
Prepare and present a strategic defense
Represent you in immigration court, as well as handling appeals before the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) and, if needed, federal court

Speak To An Experienced Deportation Defense Lawyer at Odunlami Law

Deportation cases carry high stakes, but with the right legal strategy, it is possible to fight removal and pursue relief. If you have received a Notice to Appear or are concerned about your immigration status, do not wait. Schedule a consultation today to discuss what options you have and get the experienced representation you need to protect your future in the U.S. While we are based in New Jersey, we represent clients throughout the United States. No matter where you are, we have the resources to handle your case.

For more insight, visit our page the covers common questions about deportation.

Testimonials

I just want to thank Miss Odunlami and her team for the wonderful work they did on my case. My case went so smooth and I received my approval in a period of less than 8 months which was record breaking. I know for a fact it was because of their hard work and all their help gathering my documents and making sure everything was alright that everything worked out the way it did. Thank you. You made the whole experience worthwhile.

This law firm knows what they are doing!! Mrs Odunlami is good at her stuff, able to keep you calm and focused on what is important. The entire staff were extremely helpful, empathetic and professional through this process. It’s such sweet relief to know this is now all sorted.

Upwards and onwards.

Highly recommend!

It was great knowing and being a client of Odunlami Law Firm. Their services and professionalism were nothing but excellent. They met all my needs. Their staffs were nice, respectful and professional in their approach. Attorney Odunlami is just too wonderful. Thank you for all you did for me as your client. I will always refer this law firm to others who need their services because they are great.

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I'm very much happy to use your firm for my case and today I'm the newest USA citizen, I recommend family and friends to this lovely firm and not just a firm but they help you like family from beginning to the very end, I'm so grateful to the team Odunlami law firm, I love you guys

Excellent immigration attorney! She is very compassionate and an excellent advocate for her clients.

Ms Odunlami and her staff are very helpful experienced, friendly and hard working they guided me every step of the way, helped me understand and got me APPROVED. Ms Odunlami is a great attorney that knows her job well and will get you approved with the hard work everyone puts in to make sure we all have our American dream. Thankful to very one at the Odunlami Law firm.

The Odunlami law firm was kind, courteous, professional. It is obvious that they are passionate about the work that they do and the results speak for themselves.

Ms. Odunlami is an excellent attorney that went above and beyond to ensure I had the right advice and experience. She is passionate, hardworking and my go to Immigration lawyer, that I refer whenever anyone asks.

If you want people that care about you,not just the situation you find yourself in, this is the place to go. You are family to them not just a case!

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Do You Need Legal Representation?

We help fellow immigrants get legal status so they can live without fear: do it right the first time by using an experienced immigration attorney. Our team represents immigration clients who live in all fifty states and abroad, we speak English, Spanish, Haitian Creole, and French.

Contact us at (973) 993 1900. Visit our office in NJ or NY, or connect with us for a consultation. Discover more on our [About Us] page to learn about the Odunlami Law Firm’s commitment to supporting our clients.