Removal Proceedings and Adjustment of Status Lawyer in Gainesville

Facing Deportation? Adjusting Status? We’ve Got Your Back in Gainesville

Received a Notice to Appear? Struggling with status adjustment? This isn’t just paperwork—it’s your entire future in America at stake.

At Holden Law Firm, we don’t just understand immigration law—we understand fear. The sleepless nights. The worry for your family. The uncertainty about tomorrow. We’ve guided hundreds of Gainesville immigrants through removal proceedings and status adjustments. We know how to fight—and win—when everything is on the line.

Removal Defense – Fighting to Keep You in the United States

Receiving notice of deportation proceedings can be terrifying. But remember this: You have rights, you have options, and with the right legal representation, you have hope.

Why Removal Proceedings Happen

People find themselves in removal proceedings for various reasons:

• Overstaying a visa
• Entering without inspection
• Criminal convictions (even minor ones)
• Denied immigration applications
• Violations of immigration status

How We Defend Against Removal

When your future in America is on the line, you need an attorney who knows how to navigate immigration court. Our removal defense strategies include:

Cancellation of Removal

If you’ve been in the U.S. for many years, have good moral character, and your deportation would cause exceptional hardship to your U.S. citizen or permanent resident spouse, parent, or child, we may be able to cancel your removal and help you obtain permanent residence.

Asylum and Withholding of Removal

If returning to your home country would put you at risk of persecution based on your race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group, we can help you seek asylum protection in the United States.

Adjustment of Status in Removal Proceedings

Even during deportation proceedings, it may be possible to apply for a green card if you have a qualifying family relationship or employment opportunity and meet other eligibility requirements.

Prosecutorial Discretion

We can negotiate with government attorneys to close or terminate your case based on humanitarian factors, family ties, or other compelling circumstances.

Voluntary Departure

If other relief isn’t available, we can help you depart voluntarily, avoiding the severe consequences of a deportation order and preserving your ability to return legally in the future.

Adjustment of Status: Your Path to Permanent Residence

The dream of making America your permanent home often hinges on successfully adjusting your status to lawful permanent resident. We’ve guided immigrants through this transformative process for years, turning complex legal requirements into clear, manageable steps.

Do You Qualify for Adjustment of Status?

Generally, to adjust status within the United States, you need to:

• Have entered the U.S. lawfully (with inspection)
• Be eligible for an immigrant visa (through family, employment, or special categories)
• Have a visa immediately available
• Not be inadmissible or have a waiver for any grounds of inadmissibility
• Merit favorable discretion from immigration officials

Special Adjustment Situations We Handle

Adjustment Through Marriage to a U.S. Citizen

Even if you’ve overstayed your visa, you may still qualify to adjust status as an immediate relative of a U.S. citizen. We’ll help you prove your relationship is genuine and navigate any complications.

Section 245(i) Protection

If you entered without inspection or have other barriers to adjustment, you might still qualify under Section 245(i) if you or someone who can include you in their petition had a qualifying petition or labor certification filed on or before April 30, 2001.

Adjustment with TPS (Temporary Protected Status)

If you have TPS and have been permitted to travel outside the U.S. and return through advance parole, you may qualify for adjustment of status based on that lawful re-entry.

VAWA Self-Petitioners

If you’ve suffered abuse from a U.S. citizen or permanent resident spouse or parent, you may qualify to self-petition and adjust status without their knowledge or cooperation.

The Intersection of Removal and Adjustment

Many of our clients are surprised to learn that removal proceedings don’t always mean the end of their American dream. In fact, immigration court can sometimes be a venue for adjustment of status.

Defensive Adjustment of Status

If you’re in removal proceedings but eligible for a green card, we can help you apply for “defensive adjustment of status” as a defense against deportation. This approach requires:

• Proving you meet all requirements for adjustment
• Convincing the immigration judge to approve your application
• Addressing any grounds of inadmissibility

Terminating Proceedings for USCIS Adjustment

In some cases, we can convince the immigration judge to terminate proceedings, allowing you to pursue adjustment of status before USCIS instead of in court. This might be beneficial if your case is:

• Straightforward without complex legal issues
• Based on an immediate relative petition
• Likely to be processed faster outside of the backlogged court system

Why Choose Holden Law Firm for Your Immigration Case

When your future in the United States is at stake, experience and dedication matter. Here’s why clients throughout Gainesville and Athens trust us with their most important immigration matters:

Personal Understanding of Immigration Challenges

Attorney Giovanna Holden immigrated from Colombia at age 19. She knows firsthand the fears, hopes, and challenges immigrants face because she’s lived them herself. This personal connection drives her passionate advocacy for every client.

In-depth knowledge of Immigration Law

Immigration law is all we do. We stay current on changing regulations, court decisions, and policy shifts that could affect your case. This specialized focus means we’re prepared to address even the most complex adjustment and removal defense cases.

Bilingual Legal Support

Our office provides seamless service in both English and Spanish, ensuring you fully understand your options and the progress of your case. Clear communication is essential when so much is at stake.

Proven Results in Immigration Court

We’ve successfully represented clients in the Atlanta Immigration Court and before USCIS in adjustment cases. While every case is unique, our experience gives us insight into effective strategies for your situation.

Take Action Now to Secure Your Future

Immigration matters have strict deadlines and become more complicated the longer you wait. If you’ve received a Notice to Appear or believe you might qualify for adjustment of status, contact us immediately.

Don’t face the immigration system alone. With Holden Law Firm as your advocate, you’ll have an experienced, compassionate guide every step of the way. Contact us today to schedule a consultation at our Gainesville office.

The information provided on this page is general in nature and should not be considered legal advice. Every immigration case is unique and requires personalized legal guidance. Immigration laws change frequently, so please consult with an attorney for the most current information related to your specific situation.