Removal Defense Lawyer Bergen County — What Are Your Options to Stay in the U.S.?
Facing removal (deportation) in Bergen County places your future in the U.S. at risk. Removal proceedings are heard at the Newark Immigration Court, a branch of the federal Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR). A strong defense is critical. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides focused representation for Bergen County residents.
Understanding Removal Defense Under Federal Immigration Law
Removal defense involves fighting deportation in immigration court. The process is governed by the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), codified in Title 8 of the U.S. Code, and regulations in Title 8 of the Code of Federal Regulations (C.F.R.). The government, represented by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), must prove you are removable. Your defense may include applying for relief from removal, such as Cancellation of Removal, Asylum, or protection under the Convention Against Torture.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Bergen Vicinage | U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings a strategic approach to complex federal immigration matters. We understand the high stakes of keeping families together in communities like Hackensack and Fort Lee.
Official Government Resources
For the official text of immigration laws, refer to the U.S. Code and C.F.R. on USCIS.gov. For information on the Newark Immigration Court where Bergen County cases are heard, visit the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) website.
The Local Removal Process in Bergen County
- Notice to Appear (NTA): You receive an NTA, a charging document that starts removal proceedings, listing the allegations against you.
- Master Calendar Hearing: Your first court date in Newark. You plead to the charges and state your intent to seek relief.
- Application for Relief: You file formal applications (e.g., for asylum, cancellation of removal) with supporting evidence.
- Individual Hearing: A trial-like proceeding where you present your case and testimony before an Immigration Judge.
- Immigration Judge’s Decision: The judge issues an order granting or denying relief, or ordering removal.
- Appeal: If denied, you may appeal to the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) within 30 days.
Potential Relief from Removal
In Bergen County, a removal defense lawyer can explore several forms of relief to stop deportation, each with strict legal requirements.
| Form of Relief | Key Eligibility Requirements | Potential Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Cancellation of Removal (Non-LPR) | 10+ years physical presence, good moral character, exceptional & extremely unusual hardship to a U.S. citizen/LPR spouse, parent, or child. | Grant of Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) status. |
| Asylum/Withholding of Removal | Well-founded fear of persecution based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group. | Asylum leads to LPR status; Withholding prevents deportation to a specific country. |
| Adjustment of Status | Be an immediate relative of a U.S. citizen or have an approved immigrant petition with a current priority date. | Grant of Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) status. |
| VAWA Cancellation | Battery or extreme cruelty by a U.S. citizen or LPR spouse/parent, good moral character, residence with abuser. | Grant of Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) status. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Bergen County Immigration Case
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm-wide experience spans over 120 combined years. We have handled 4,739+ documented case results. We approach each removal defense with a deep understanding of both the legal standards and the human impact on families in Teaneck, Paramus, and across Bergen County.
Documented Case Results
Our firm-wide approach has yielded 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. While results are always case-specific, this history demonstrates our commitment to vigorous representation. For example, our team has successfully secured dismissals (nolle prosequi) in complex matters and favorable settlements in others.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our Removal Defense Lawyer Near Me Bergen County
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Bergen County. We are accessible via I-80, the NJ Turnpike, and Route 17. If you need an affordable removal defense lawyer Bergen County, we offer 24/7 phone consultations to discuss your situation.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Location — 44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (732) 651-9900
By appointment only.
We serve Hackensack, Fort Lee, Teaneck, Paramus, Englewood, Ridgewood, Fair Lawn, Bergenfield, Garfield, Mahwah, Ramsey, and Lyndhurst.
Bergen County Removal Defense FAQs
What does a removal defense lawyer do?
Yes. A removal defense lawyer represents you in immigration court against deportation. They analyze your case, identify all forms of relief you may qualify for (like asylum or cancellation of removal), prepare applications, gather evidence, represent you at hearings, and file appeals if necessary.
How long do removal proceedings take in Newark?
It depends. The Newark Immigration Court has a substantial backlog. From the first Master Calendar Hearing to a final decision, it can take 2 to 4 years or longer. An experienced lawyer can help handle delays and keep your case moving forward.
Can I get a work permit during my removal case?
It depends. You may be eligible for a work permit (Employment Authorization Document) if you have a pending application for relief, such as asylum, that has been pending for over 150 days without a decision. Not all cases qualify.
What is the New Jersey Immigrant Trust Directive?
The Directive limits how state and local law enforcement in NJ cooperate with federal immigration authorities (ICE). It generally prohibits police from stopping, questioning, or arresting someone based solely on immigration status and restricts honoring ICE detainers without a judicial warrant.
What happens if I lose my case in immigration court?
If the Immigration Judge orders your removal, you generally have 30 days to appeal to the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA). If the BIA denies appeal, you may seek review in a U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. It is critical to act quickly with legal counsel.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing other legal challenges in Bergen County, our firm also handles criminal defense, DUI/DWI defense, and family law matters. For more immigration resources, visit our New Jersey immigration hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Hunterdon County and Somerset County.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Immigration law and court procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for the most current guidance regarding your removal defense case in Bergen County.
Under Va. Code § 13.1-1000 et seq., state law governs this practice area.