Asylum Representation in Long Beach

The one-year filing deadline

The general asylum deadline is one year from your last arrival in the United States. Limited exceptions may involve changed circumstances or extraordinary circumstances. An exception does not remove every timing requirement; you generally must still file within a reasonable period under the circumstances.

Do not assume that fear, lack of information, or an approaching court date automatically excuses a late filing. Gather entry records and the dates of important events. If you believe your deadline has passed, ask about both possible exceptions and other forms of protection.

Affirmative and defensive asylum

Affirmative asylum generally means applying with USCIS when that agency has authority over your application. Defensive asylum generally means asking an immigration judge for protection in removal proceedings. Rules about who handles a case can be more complicated for certain applicants, including some children.

Both paths require an explanation of your fear and supporting evidence when available. The setting and procedures differ. If you have received court papers, review your deportation defense options and keep attending required hearings unless the court tells you otherwise. Filing an application does not cancel a hearing.

Withholding of removal and CAT protection

Withholding of removal and protection under the Convention Against Torture, or CAT, are related protections but are not the same as asylum. Withholding generally requires a higher likelihood of persecution tied to a protected ground. CAT focuses on a likelihood of torture involving government action, consent, or acquiescence.

These protections may be relevant when asylum is unavailable, including some cases involving the filing deadline. They have different limits and do not provide the same family benefits or direct path to permanent residence as asylum. A careful review can identify which requests should be presented together.

Preparing your protection request

1. 1

   Review your history and deadlines

   We discuss your last arrival, earlier immigration filings, court papers, and reasons you fear return. Bring notices you have, even if you are unsure what they mean.

2. 2

   Identify the legal basis

   We examine the connection between the harm and a protected ground. We also review potential barriers and whether withholding or CAT protection should be considered.

3. 3

   Develop your evidence

   We help organize your personal account, country information, and available supporting records. If evidence cannot safely be obtained, explain the circumstances rather than putting yourself or others at risk.

4. 4

   Prepare and file the application

   We prepare the asylum application, Form I-589, and review the facts with you. Where and how it must be filed depend on the agency or court handling your case.

5. 5

   Prepare for interviews or hearings

   We explain the setting and help you prepare to answer questions truthfully. If a decision is unfavorable, we review whether appeals or other next steps may be available and discuss applicable deadlines.

Clear guidance through difficult decisions

Juliana personally reviews cases and explains options honestly. A consultation costs $60, and payment plans are available. You can meet in person, by phone, or by video. Bring immigration notices, entry documents, and any evidence you already have; you do not need a complete file to ask for help.

We also discuss work permits. An asylum applicant may qualify after the application has been pending for the required period, subject to other rules. Filing alone does not authorize work. Applicant-caused delays and other circumstances may affect eligibility, so review your own record before applying.

Frequently Asked Questions

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