Asylum Attorney in Houston

Gaining Asylum in the United States

The United States honors the right to asylum under international and federal law for individuals facing persecution in their native countries. If you or someone you know needs information and guidance concerning an asylum or refugee matter, you should speak with a Houston asylum lawyer at Sebastian Simon Law Group, PLLC, immediately.

Our firm provides efficient, compassionate, and dedicated immigration legal services to clients from all over the world. Our mission is to bring and keep families together in the safety of the United States. As part of that endeavor, we concentrate a major portion of our practice on asylum cases.

Learn more about how we can help you seek asylum. Contact an asylum lawyer in Houston at (713) 839-0639or via our online request formto discuss the specifics of your case. Hablamos Español.

Asylum & Refugee Policy in the U.S.

Refugees are generally considered to be individuals who have suffered (or face the future prospect of suffering) persecution based on their:

• Race
• Religion
• Nationality
• Political views
• Or membership in a specific group

Such individuals need international protection because their own governments or state institutions are unable to protect their rights or physical security.

As a potential refugee, you may be fleeing in terror from abuses within your own country or attempting to escape oppression that it is unable to prevent. If you are already in the U.S., you may be granted asylum. If you are outside the U.S. and request asylum, you are considered a refugee.

Understanding the nuances between being an asylum seeker and a refugee is crucial, as it impacts the procedural routes and legal protections available. This distinction affects everything from the application process to the rights and benefits granted upon acceptance. Our attorneys at Sebastian Simon Law Group, PLLC, are adept at navigating these complexities to ensure your case is presented effectively by a qualified asylum attorney.

What Is The Refugee Act of 1980?

The United States' asylum policy, as well as refugee procedures, are regulated by the Refugee Act of 1980. This Act is consistent with the 1967 United Nations Protocol on Refugees. No limit is imposed on the number of persons who may be granted asylum in the U.S.

The Refugee Act was enacted to revise and expand the framework under which the United States protects refugees and asylees. It ensures a coherent legal approach consistent with international obligations. It establishes the criteria and procedures for determining eligibility, thus providing structure to the U.S. commitment to offering sanctuary to those fleeing persecution. By embedding this act within the larger scope of immigration law, it reflects the nation's values of freedom, safety, and humanitarian concern.

What Are the Eligibility Requirements for Asylum?

Those who are granted asylum must reside in the U.S. for one year to become eligible to apply for an adjustment to lawful permanent resident status. To be eligible for asylum, an individual must ask for asylum at a port of entry, file an application within one year of entering the U.S., and must also qualify under the definition of a refugee.

There are exceptions to the one-year filing deadline, such as changing circumstances in the applicant's country of origin or extraordinary conditions affecting the individual's potential to file a timely request. Understanding these nuances can make a significant difference in the outcome of an asylum application. Our team is proficient in evaluating your situation to see if any of these exceptions can apply, ensuring your application is as strong as possible with the aid of a seasoned asylum lawyer at Sebastian Simon Law Group, PLLC.

What Is Temporary Protective Status (TPS)?

Temporary Protected Status is a type of temporary status available to those who are from certain designated countries and present in this country. To gain this status, you must meet eligibility requirements.

Designated countries are generally those impacted by natural disasters or violent conflict. This type of status allows these foreign nationals to live and work in the U.S. for a specific and limited time. Currently, countries such as El Salvador, Haiti, Honduras, Somalia, Yemen, Sudan, Nicaragua, and others have been named as nations where this status applies.

The Department of Homeland Security announced that Venezuela has been designated for TPS for 18 months from March 9, 2021, through September 9, 2022. While TPS provides important protections, it is not equivalent to lawful permanent residency or citizenship. However, understanding your rights and responsibilities under TPS can help you make informed decisions about your future in the U.S. Our lawyers can help you navigate this temporary status and explore other avenues for permanent residence. To learn more about how to apply for this status and the evidence required, you should speak with one of our knowledgeable immigration attorneys as soon as possible.

Understanding Local Resources for Refugee Support in Houston

In Houston, a city known for its rich cultural diversity and welcoming spirit, many individuals and families seek refuge from persecution in their home countries. Local organizations, such as the Houston Refugee Consortium, provide essential resources and support for refugees navigating the complex asylum process. These organizations work tirelessly to ensure that newcomers have access to legal assistance, housing, and community integration programs.

As a potential refugee in Houston, you may face unique challenges, including language barriers, employment difficulties, and the emotional toll of leaving your home behind. The City of Houston offers various resources to help refugees acclimate, including job training programs and mental health services. Understanding these local resources can significantly ease your transition and help you build a new life in the United States.

The local government is committed to supporting refugees through initiatives that promote community engagement and cultural understanding. By connecting with local entities, you can find a network of support that understands your pain points and is ready to assist you in your journey toward safety and stability.

Educational programs geared towards refugee communities are also instrumental in assisting individuals to adapt and thrive in their new environment. Courses in English as a Second Language (ESL), as well as cultural orientation sessions, are often available for free or at low cost. Engaging in these opportunities can significantly enhance your ability to integrate into local society. By fostering connections within the community, refugees can develop the support systems necessary for a successful transition.

If you are in Houston and need guidance on your asylum application or refugee status, our team at Sebastian Simon Law Group, PLLC is here to help. We understand the local landscape and the specific challenges you may face, and we are dedicated to providing compassionate legal support tailored to your needs. Connect with an experienced asylum lawyer near you as soon as possible.

Ready to Apply for Asylum? Contact A Qualified Asylum Attorney Today

Compassionate Legal Assistance

To be granted asylum or other immigration benefits, you must generally file an application with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Our firm can assist you with all applications and the resulting processes. We are well-acquainted with procedures related to any form of immigration law issue as our attorneys are immigrants themselves.

We passionately strive to assist anyone struggling with deciphering the laws and government rules. We have defended countless cases involving immigration and asylum and will fight for you from start to finish.

Our approach encompasses not only legal guidance but also empathetic support through what can often be a daunting process. We understand the personal stakes involved and offer more than just legal solutions; we provide moral support, ensuring our clients feel confident and informed at every step of their journey. Whether you are new to the immigration process or seeking further assistance, our commitment is unwavering.

Contact us at (713) 839-0639 or (332) 330-9442 today to connect with a professional asylum attorney near you.