Asylum Lawyer in Coppell, TX

Asylum & Immigration Help for Refugees

At Christensen Immigration Attorneys, asylum matters were a significant factor in the decision to practice immigration law. Our attorneys and staff are dedicated to helping those whose lives are have been endangered in their home countries. We want to help immigrants in these situations enjoy a better quality of life by obtaining asylum in the United States. Attorney Nathan Christensen has successfully helped many clients with asylum cases.

The Challenge of Obtaining Asylum

Asylum is extremely difficult to obtain and more applications are denied than approved. A high crime rate in your home country is not sufficient to have your application approved. A person seeking asylum must be able to demonstrate a “well-founded fear of persecution” based on specific factors. The threat must come from either the government or a group that is out of the government’s control.

Asylum may be granted if a person can show a fear of persecution based on:

• Race
• Nationality
• Religion
• Political opinion
• Affiliation with a particular social group

If asylum is granted, your status will eventually change to permanent residence. That means you get a green card and eventually can get citizenship. An application for asylum must be completed within a year of entering the United States. If you have been in the country longer, the conditions in the country must have changed or your own personal circumstances must have changed within the prior year. Anyone may apply for asylum, regardless of legal immigration status.

How Long Do You Have to Apply for Asylum?

A person has one year after arriving in the United States to apply for asylum. After one year, you are no longer eligible to apply. However, there are a couple of exceptions that may extend your time to apply. Our Coppell asylum lawyers can help. Contact us to discuss your options in further detail.

Asylum vs. Refugee Status

The difference between an asylee and a refugee mostly comes from where the person seeking protection requests this status. Asylees are those who request asylum status in the United States, while refugees request refugee status before entering the country.

Those with asylum or refugee status can remain in the United States indefinitely, or until the conditions of their home country return to normal. They can also apply for a work permit once their status is approved, a green card after a year, and for citizenship after five years.

Do I Need An Asylum Lawyer To Submit My Application?

As previously mentioned, many applicants for asylum are denied. Applicants should also be extremely organized and well-written within their claims because there is no guarantee that the person making a decision on your claim is aware of the issues going on within your home country. With that in mind, an asylum attorney can help you support and provide evidence with credible sources to improve your likelihood of approval. Coppell asylum lawyers can also help you adhere to strict filing time limits, so it's wise to work with experienced representation.

Helping Clients Navigate the Asylum Process

The process of applying for asylum can be complicated, and you may feel discouraged because so many applications are denied. However, having a qualified Coppell asylum attorney to help you navigate the process can help. Our firm will review your claim and provide an honest assessment of your chances for approval. If you have a good chance and decide to move forward, we will work hard to help you achieve your goal. Reach out to an asylum lawyer near you today!

• Related: Why You Need Legal Services to Help With Your Asylum Case