Removal Defense Lawyer in Florida

Facing removal proceedings can be one of the most frightening experiences in your immigration journey. At Robert M. Bell, our firm understands what’s at stake: your ability to remain in the United States with your family, continue your career, and protect the future you have worked hard to build.

We provide assertive, knowledgeable deportation defense throughout Florida to individuals fighting to stay in this country. In many cases, individuals in removal proceedings may still qualify for adjustment of status, which our firm can evaluate as part of your defense strategy.

Applications for Permission to Reapply for Admission

If you were previously removed or deported from the United States, you may be inadmissible and require permission to reapply for admission before you can return. Form I-212, Application for Permission to Reapply for Admission into the United States After Deportation or Removal, is a critical tool that allows individuals to overcome this bar to reentry.

The approval of an I-212 depends on several factors, including the reasons for your prior removal, the length of time since removal, your immigration history, family ties in the United States, and evidence of rehabilitation. We carefully prepare I-212 applications with comprehensive supporting documentation demonstrating why you deserve a favorable exercise of discretion and should be permitted to return to the United States.

Employment Authorization Documents in Removal Proceedings

While your removal case is pending, obtaining work authorization can be critical to supporting yourself and your family. Individuals in removal proceedings may be eligible to apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) if they have a pending application for relief, such as asylum, adjustment of status, cancellation of removal, or certain other forms of protection. We know that being able to work legally while your case is pending can make an enormous difference in your life during this stressful time.

Motion to Reopen In Absentia Removal Orders

When someone misses an immigration court hearing, the judge may issue an in absentia removal order. To challenge this type of order, the proper filing is a Motion to Reopen, not a Motion to Recalendar. A Motion to Reopen asks the immigration court to cancel the in absentia order and restore your case, based on valid reasons such as lack of notice, exceptional circumstances, or legal errors. Our firm prepares detailed and well-supported motions that clearly demonstrate why your case should be reopened so you can move forward with your defense.

Motions to Rescind for Lack of Notice

If you were ordered removed in absentia but never received proper notice of your hearing, you have the right to file a Motion to Rescind the removal order. Immigration law requires that the government provide adequate written notice of hearing dates and times to the address you’ve provided or that’s otherwise on file. We meticulously gather evidence to demonstrate that you were not adequately notified and, therefore, should not have been ordered removed in your absence.

Sua Sponte Motions to Reopen

Even after a removal order becomes final, immigration judges and the Board of Immigration Appeals retain the authority to reopen cases on their own motion, known as “sua sponte” reopening. While these motions are discretionary and granted sparingly, they can be a lifeline in cases involving exceptional circumstances, changed country conditions, or new evidence of eligibility for relief. We file compelling sua sponte motions that clearly articulate why your case presents the type of exceptional circumstances that warrant the court’s exercise of discretion to reopen.

Comprehensive Removal Defense Strategy

Beyond these procedural tools, we defend clients against removal by pursuing all available forms of relief, including cancellation of removal, asylum, adjustment of status, waivers of inadmissibility, and other protections. Every case is different, and we develop individualized strategies based on your unique circumstances, immigration history, and family situation.

Protect Your Future With a Removal Defense Lawyer in Florida

Removal proceedings move quickly, and the consequences of removal can be devastating and long-lasting. You need an experienced immigration attorney who understands both the substantive law and the procedural complexities of defending removal cases in immigration court.

If you’re facing removal proceedings or have questions about your immigration status, contact Robert M. Bell online or at (954) 241-4209. Our bilingual team is ready to provide the aggressive, knowledgeable defense you need to protect your future in the United States.