Introduction
A large number of recent immigrants to the U.S. are either confused or misinformed as to how the U.S. immigration system works in terms of removal and deportation proceedings. Two terms so easily confused but so capable of having very serious and life altering effects for immigrants. The article below seeks to educate both removal and deportation proceedings and how being knowledgeable of the distinctions between the two can protect the rights of immigrants and make informed decisions during trying times for immigrants.
Define Removal and Deportation: Legal Frameworks and Terminology
Immigrants and their families face confusion as to how the terms removal vs deportation are used in US immigration laws. Removal and deportation are generally two terms that are used interchangeably in the United States for the process or action of a noncitizen being removed from or expelled from the United States because they have violated immigration laws. The difference in the terms of removal and deportation lies in the time frame in which the terms were used. Historically, the process of removal of noncitizens who violated immigration laws was referred to as “deportation.” However, in 1996, with the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act (IIRIRA), the rules of deportation were essentially reversed and have since been referred to as removal proceedings. Today, the process of removal of noncitizens who violate the terms and conditions of their stay in the US are generally referred to as “deportation” or “expulsion” although there are significant differences in how the terms are used.
Knowing the difference between removal and deportation can help serve the interests of many immigrants going through immigration proceedings. Although an individual going through deportation proceedings can contest his or her removal for procedural and/or constitutional reasons, an individual’s removal can be contested in removal proceedings as well. For example, in Pereira v. Holder, 663 F.3d 412 (5th Cir. 2011), a permanent resident was subject to deportation proceedings when he contested his removal and the government’s removal order was subsequently reversed when it was determined that the government failed to comply with procedures set forth by law in attempting to remove him from this country. As noted by one expert, while removal and deportation are both used to remove people from this country who are not U.S. citizens, “deportation” involves a broader array of immigration enforcement actions that can in many cases be conducted on an expedited basis even without a hearing before an immigration judge.
To better understand Removal Proceedings and Deportation Proceedings, it is helpful to review the statutory definitions of the terms found in the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). “Expulsion” refers to removal of any alien, including permanent residents and individuals with other immigration status, on any of the grounds for inadmissibility or deportability and also on other grounds of immigration violation. There are also specific circumstances under which an alien may be removed, such as when an alien is subject to removal on criminal grounds of inadmissibility or deportability. In summary, “expulsion” is the process of removal of a noncitizen on various grounds while “deportation” specifically refers to the removal of a noncitizen as a result or consequence of prior actions or activities by such individual.
It is essential that we have the latest updates on Removal and information regarding removal and deportation in order to best protect your rights. If you are confronted by ICE, remember that you have the right to:
- remain silent,
- consult with an attorney, and
- refuse to sign any documents.
Unless a warrant is produced, signed by a judge, DO NOT OPEN YOUR DOOR. Contact us today for emergency defense and FREE consultations 24/7. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for all your urgent immigration law needs. Your rights and freedom are at risk. Act now.
Compare Procedures: How Removal and Deportation Are Initiated and Processed
Immigrants receive Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Notices to Appear (NTAs) and worry and are unclear what their rights are as the events unfold. The immigrant’s rights are set forth in the immigrant’s NTA. The immigrant has the right to a hearing before an immigration judge where the immigrant will present evidence refuting the charges set forth in the immigrant’s NTA.
Detainees near the border where a person cannot prove legal status in the U.S. can be removed from this country very quickly. People that are removed from the U.S. without a hearing before an immigration judge are said to have been removed, not deported. Often there are not even enough judicial options available for people in this situation to find relief from removal.
It is also important to understand removal vs deportation processes as they pertain to individuals who are facing scrutiny of their immigration status. For example, a permanent resident of North Carolina received a notice of removal from ICE and was put into removal proceedings. The individual and his case were assisted by Vasquez Law Firm in order to successfully go through removal proceedings and remain in the U.S. regardless of the circumstances that led to his placement in removal proceedings.
There have been many recent changes in our immigration policy which have made the processes for removal and deportation of persons found to be present in the United States without status more complicated. Recently USCIS changed its policy and now issues a Notice to Appear (NTA) when it denies a petition or application of an individual who is present in the United States without status. Those individuals applying for immigration benefits who are not in lawful status in the U.S. are now at greater risk of being placed in removal proceedings. It is in the best interest of those individuals to seek the services of experienced immigration attorney to assist them in their removal proceedings. The immigration attorneys at Vasquez Law Firm provide 24/7 representation and free initial consultations.
Analyze Consequences: Impacts of Removal vs Deportation on Individuals
Being in the state of limbo and having to face possible expulsion or relocation as an immigrant or the member of an immigrant family is a very precarious and frightening time for many families. Removal and deportation are two terms that are frequently used, but carry very different implications for an individual’s future. While some individuals or their parents are eligible for relief and can remain in the U.S., others face removal or deportation with the possibility of a lifetime ban and never being able to return to the U.S. (depending on circumstances of removal or deportation).
Removal or deportation often results in the division of families and causes great anxiety and confusion to both parents and children. Children can be forcibly or voluntarily left with relatives in other countries. The emotional strain that children experience as a result of the physical absence of one or more parents can lead to anxiety and behavior problems. Children who are separated from their parents can experience deep sadness, feel helpless, and be extremely dependent on the remaining parents.
Additionally, the economic effect that can happen due to deportation to a foreign country can affect people for years to come. A single woman who was trying to make ends meet as it was has a much harder job now that her husband was deported. The money her husband made averaged 62.7% less than what she made after he was deported. She had to take on 3 jobs just to try and make ends meet as she tried to care for her 2 children and complete tasks like laundry and cooking for them. A mother, trying to work and to search for another job is hard enough but, she is also taking care of her children and completing household tasks. The worst part of her situation was that the money her husband used to make averaged 62.7% less than what she made after he was deported.
The severe stress of removal creates a multitude of serious problems including symptoms of anxiety and severe depression. Families removed from the U.S. are reported to suffer from severe levels of depression for extended periods of time and in extreme cases report feelings of suicidal thoughts while trying to deal with the situation of removal from the U.S. The problems created by removal are not short term problems that will subside in a few years; rather, they will have a long lasting effect on a family’s future stability and happiness.
Understanding how removal and deportation can impact the lives of immigrants and their families can assist immigrants and their families in making the best decision to protect their rights and best interests while trying to avoid potential detriments to themselves and their family members. Knowing the current laws regarding the entry into the U.S. and conduct of legal and unauthorized permanent residents as well as the removal of aliens from the U.S. by both governmental agencies and others can help an immigrant make an informed decision and aid in the immigrant’s search for the most adequate method of protection.
Examine Legal Protections: Rights and Recourse in Removal and Deportation Cases
Being in removal proceedings can be a very scary and overwhelming situation, but there are many rights that can protect you and make sure any decisions are fair. For example, you have the right to:
- Present evidence and/or testimony in your removal proceedings.
- Contest any decisions made by an immigration judge that affects your rights and/or interests.
Even in removal proceedings, there are many types of relief that an individual may be eligible for. Depending on an individual’s circumstances, they may be eligible for:
- Asylum
- Adjustment of status
It is very important to know your rights and how they can protect you in this very complex system of removal proceedings. In fact, statistics show that over 84% of the individuals that appear before an immigration court do not have representation. Qualified counsel is vital to ensure that an individual receives a fair hearing.
Conclusion
Does your mispronunciation of two similar words have the potential to cause the separation of you and your family and to have you removed in your home in error while an illegal immigrant? Two words - so simple to utter - potentially can bring disastrous results to you and your family. But learning the potential results of the 2 simple words can allow you to search for the proper aid to protect yourself and your loved ones.
Being in removal proceedings and/or deportation can be one of the worst moments of your life, and there are times when even that is not the worst. However, in any case, you and your family have rights. There are many places to look for assistance to individuals and families in this crisis. Here at the Vasquez Law Firm, we are dedicated to protecting you and your loved ones’ rights in immigration cases.
Knowledge of your rights and processes of removal/deportation can protect you and your loved ones. Whether you need representation in removal proceedings or have questions regarding the deportation process, the experienced attorneys at Vasquez Law Firm can help answer your questions and guide you through this difficult time. Protect yourself and your future. Call us today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between removal and deportation in U.S. immigration laws?
Removal and deportation are often used interchangeably in the U.S., but historically, 'deportation' referred to the process of expelling noncitizens who violated immigration laws. Since the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act (IIRIRA) of 1996, the term 'removal' has been used to describe this process.
How can individuals contest their removal or deportation?
Individuals can contest their removal during removal proceedings for procedural or constitutional reasons. For example, in the case of Pereira v. Holder, a permanent resident successfully contested his removal, leading to the reversal of the government's order due to failure to follow legal procedures.
What does the term 'expulsion' refer to in immigration law?
'Expulsion' refers to the removal of any alien, including permanent residents, based on grounds for inadmissibility or deportability, as well as other immigration violations.
What are the grounds for removal of a noncitizen?
Noncitizens may be removed for various reasons, including criminal grounds of inadmissibility or deportability, as well as other immigration violations.
What rights do individuals have when confronted by ICE?
Individuals have the right to remain silent, consult with an attorney, and refuse to sign any documents. They should not open their door unless a warrant signed by a judge is presented.
What should someone do if they are facing removal or deportation proceedings?
It is essential to stay informed about the latest updates on removal and deportation processes. Individuals are encouraged to seek legal assistance, especially in urgent situations, and can contact legal services for emergency defense and consultations.
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