Motion to Reconsider Lawyer Serving the U Street Corridor, Washington, D.C.
A Motion to Reconsider is a critical legal request asking an immigration judge or the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) to re-examine a decision based on an error of law or fact. For U Street Corridor residents, these complex filings are processed through the Arlington Immigration Court or USCIS. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | DC Superior Court | U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
What Is a Motion to Reconsider in Immigration Law?
A Motion to Reconsider asks the same court or agency to review its own decision, arguing there was a mistake in applying the law or a misunderstanding of the facts. It must be filed within 30 days of the final decision (or 30 days of a BIA decision). This is distinct from a Motion to Reopen, which asks the court to reopen immigration case proceedings based on new evidence. Both are governed by the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C.) and regulations in Title 8 of the Code of Federal Regulations.
- Obtain and review the full decision and record of proceedings.
- Identify a clear error of law or fact within the 30-day filing deadline.
- Draft the motion with precise legal arguments supported by statute and case law.
- File the motion with the correct court (e.g., Arlington Immigration Court) and serve all required parties.
- Prepare for potential oral argument if the court requests further clarification.
- If denied, evaluate options for appeal to the BIA or federal circuit court.
Penalties and Consequences of an Unfavorable Immigration Decision
In Washington, D.C., an unfavorable immigration decision can lead to removal proceedings, bars to re-entry, and family separation, making a timely motion to reconsider critical.
| Issue | Classification | Consequence | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Order of Removal | Final Order | Deportation; bars to re-entry (3, 10, or permanent) | Enforceable after appeal rights expire |
| Application Denial (e.g., I-485, I-130) | Administrative Denial | Loss of status; accrual of unlawful presence | Motion deadline: 30 days |
| In Absentia Removal Order | Final Order | Removal ordered without applicant present; 5-year bar to reopening | Motion to Reopen deadline: 180 days if exceptional circumstances |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Immigration Law Experience
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to complex immigration matters. Our firm-wide track includes 4,739+ case results. Mr. Sris is personally consulted by Indian Consulate officials in Washington, D.C. on U.S. legal matters affecting Indian nationals, providing unique insight into cross-border cases. We focus on strategic, evidence-driven motions to correct judicial errors and protect our clients’ rights to remain in the United States.
Documented Case Results
Our approach to immigration defense has secured favorable outcomes for clients. In one firm-wide result, we successfully challenged an in absentia removal order by filing a timely Motion to Reopen, proving the client did not receive proper notice of the hearing. In another, a Motion to Reconsider led an Immigration Judge to reverse a denial of asylum based on a corrected interpretation of the law of particular social group. We have 1 total documented case result in Washington, D.C., across all practice areas with a 100% favorable outcome rate.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Immigration Lawyer Near U Street Corridor
Our Arlington location is approximately 3 miles from the DC Superior Court and serves the U Street Corridor, accessible via I-395 and I-66. We provide legal support for residents in Georgetown, Capitol Hill, Adams Morgan, Columbia Heights, Logan Circle, Shaw, and surrounding neighborhoods.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Arlington Location — 1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719
Arlington, VA 22209
By appointment only.
24/7 Phone Consultations
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
Need a motion to reconsider lawyer U Street Corridor residents trust? Contact us for a confidential case review.
Frequently Asked Questions: Motions to Reconsider and Reopen
Where is the immigration court for DC?
Removal proceedings for DC residents are heard at the Arlington Immigration Court at 1901 S. Bell St, Arlington, VA 22202. Affirmative applications are processed at the USCIS Washington District Office in Fairfax, VA.
What is the difference between a Motion to Reconsider and a Motion to Reopen?
It depends. A Motion to Reconsider argues the decision was wrong based on the existing record. A Motion to Reopen presents new, material evidence not previously available. An immigration reconsideration lawyer U Street Corridor can advise which is appropriate for your case.
How long do I have to file a Motion to Reconsider?
You generally have 30 days from the date of the final decision by an Immigration Judge or the BIA to file a Motion to Reconsider. Missing this deadline typically forfeits your right to file.
Can I file a Motion to Reopen if I was ordered removed in absentia?
Yes, but with strict deadlines. You must file within 180 days if you can prove “exceptional circumstances” for missing the hearing. A lawyer can help you prepare a strong evidentiary package.
Do I need a lawyer to file a motion?
Yes. The procedural and legal standards are high. A successful motion to reconsider lawyer U Street Corridor residents hire can identify specific legal errors and craft persuasive arguments that meet the strict regulatory requirements.
Related Practice Areas: Criminal Defense Lawyer Washington, D.C. | Family Law Lawyer Washington, D.C.
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Last verified: April 2026. The information on this page is for general informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration law changes frequently. Consult with an attorney for advice on your specific situation.