How much does deportation defense cost?

Non-detained cases with straightforward relief: $3,000–$8,000. Complex cases or appeals: $10,000–$20,000+. Detained cases often cost more due to urgency. Some nonprofits provide free or reduced-cost representation.

What is voluntary departure?

Voluntary departure allows you to leave by a court-set deadline without a formal removal order — preserving more future immigration options than a removal order (which creates a 10-year bar). Highly case-specific — discuss with an attorney.

Deportation Defense — Find Trusted Immigration Legal Services Professionals

Q: Can I be deported if I have US citizen children?

Having US citizen children does not automatically prevent removal, though it can support certain defenses — particularly exceptional and extremely unusual hardship for cancellation of removal.

What Is Deportation Defense?

Removal proceedings are court actions to deport a non-citizen — legal representation dramatically changes outcomes, from termination of proceedings to relief from removal.

How Proceedings Begin

Proceedings start when ICE or USCIS issues a Notice to Appear (NTA) filed with an immigration court. Grounds: visa overstay, unlawful entry, criminal convictions, fraud. Missing any court date results in an in absentia removal order.

Available Defenses

Cancellation of removal, asylum and withholding of removal, adjustment of status, prosecutorial discretion, voluntary departure (preserving future immigration options), and motions to terminate or suppress.

The Immigration Court System

Once in proceedings, an immigration judge has jurisdiction — not USCIS. Appeals go to the BIA, then to federal circuit courts. Without an attorney, respondents face professional government lawyers who handle deportation daily.

Detained Cases

Detained individuals have the right to a bond hearing before an IJ. Detained cases move much faster — sometimes to trial within weeks. Having an attorney from day one of detention is critical.

What to Look for in a Immigration Law Provider

Active state bar license — verify through your state bar's public lookup
AILA (American Immigration Lawyers Association) membership — indicates specialization
Experience specifically in your case type (family, employment, asylum, removal defense)
No disciplinary history — check your state bar and AILA
Clear written fee agreement before any work begins
Responsive communication — immigration has strict deadlines that require timely attorney action

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if ICE comes to my door?

You have constitutional rights regardless of status. You are not required to open the door without a signed judicial warrant. You have the right to remain silent and to speak to an attorney. Do not sign documents without an attorney present.

Can I be deported if I have US citizen children?

Professional Deportation Defense