Doraville Voluntary Departure Lawyer

Facing deportation is incredibly stressful, but sometimes voluntary departure can provide a more respectful and controlled way to leave the country. Instead of a formal removal order, a voluntary departure allows you to leave on your own terms, which can help you avoid certain harsh immigration penalties in the future. That said, it involves strict rules, deadlines, and risks if handled incorrectly.

This is why having a knowledgeable Doraville voluntary departure lawyer from the Solano Immigration Law Firm is important. Our seasoned deportation defense attorneys could help you understand your options, determine if you qualify, and guide you through the process to protect your chances of being able to return legally.

Voluntary Departure Is Still a Legal Process

Voluntary departure is not as simple as just getting on a plane and leaving the country. You must still go through the court system and seek permission for a voluntary departure. If you agree to leave the United States quickly and at your own expense, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) may grant voluntary departure before your case goes to court.

If your case is already in removal proceedings, an immigration judge could grant you a voluntary departure instead of issuing a removal order, but only if you meet certain requirements. You must submit a petition to an immigration judge to seek a voluntary departure, which makes having a lawyer in Doraville important.

What Are the Restrictions on Voluntary Departure?

Voluntary departure is not available to everyone, and several restrictions apply. An immigrant must request it either from the DHS before proceedings or from the immigration court during or at the conclusion of a removal case. To qualify, the person must show that they have not been convicted of certain crimes, possess the financial means to leave the U.S. at their own expense, and maintain good moral character.

Additionally, the request must be made within strict deadlines, and failing to depart by the ordered date can result in severe consequences. These include fines, a 10-year bar on certain immigration benefits, and automatic conversion of the order into a formal removal. Due to these risks, legal guidance from a Doraville attorney is essential for a voluntary departure.

Benefits of Seeking Voluntary Departure

Although you may have wished to remain in the U.S., there are reasons why it may be in your best interests to voluntarily depart. These include:

• Avoiding the stigma of being subject to a removal order
• Controlling the timing and circumstances of your exit from the U.S.
• Preserving your future eligibility for certain types of visas that you may not have been eligible for if you were deported
• Maintaining your eligibility to make a legal return to the U.S.

A lawyer in Doraville could assist you with the process for a voluntary departure to help ensure your ability to return to the country in the future.

How a Lawyer Could Help With Voluntary Departure

A Doraville immigration lawyer could provide crucial guidance if you are considering voluntary departure. An attorney helps determine whether you qualify, explains the risks and benefits compared to other forms of relief, and ensures the filing of your request correctly and within the strict deadlines. They could present evidence to the immigration court showing you meet eligibility requirements, such as good moral character and the ability to pay for your own departure.

A lawyer also protects you from unintentionally waiving your rights to other possible defenses, such as asylum or cancellation of removal. If voluntary departure is granted, your attorney could help you comply with all the conditions to avoid penalties. Having a lawyer on your side helps to ensure the process is handled strategically and effectively.

Contact an Attorney in Doraville About a Voluntary Departure

You should consult with an attorney if you are facing removal from the U.S. and wish to voluntarily leave on your own. Our attorney at the Solano Immigration Law Firm could give you legal advice and advocate for you throughout the process. You can schedule an appointment to speak with our Doraville voluntary departure lawyer by sending us a message through our website or by calling us today.