Request for Voluntary Departure Lawyer in Gloucester County, NJ
A request for voluntary departure is a formal application to an immigration judge to leave the United States voluntarily instead of facing a formal removal order. In Gloucester County, NJ, this process is governed by federal immigration law, specifically the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
What Is a Request for Voluntary Departure?
Last verified: March 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Gloucester Vicinage | NJ Legislature
While immigration law is federal, cases are adjudicated in local Immigration Courts. A request for voluntary departure is a discretionary form of relief under Section 240B of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). It allows a noncitizen to depart the United States at their own expense within a set period, avoiding the more severe consequences of a formal removal order, such as bars on future re-entry. Eligibility is strict, and the application must be made before an immigration judge. The process requires careful legal strategy, which is why consulting a request for voluntary departure lawyer Gloucester County is critical.
Official Immigration Resources
Understanding the legal framework is essential. The process is managed by the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR). You can review procedural rules on the EOIR website. For forms and general policy, refer to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website. These resources provide the official context for your case.
Local Process for Voluntary Departure in Gloucester County
While immigration court is federal, individuals from Gloucester County typically have their cases heard at the Immigration Court in Newark or Philadelphia. The procedural steps are uniform but require precise local filing. An affordable request for voluntary departure lawyer Gloucester County can handle this federal system while understanding the logistical needs of clients in Woodbury, Washington Township, and surrounding areas.
- Receive a Notice to Appear (NTA) in Immigration Court.
- Consult immediately with an immigration attorney to assess eligibility for voluntary departure.
- File the formal request for voluntary departure with the Immigration Judge, often before or at the master calendar hearing.
- Present evidence at a merits hearing demonstrating eligibility, including good moral character and the ability to depart.
- If granted, comply with all departure deadlines and provide proof of departure to the Department of Homeland Security.
Consequences of a Voluntary Departure Grant
In Gloucester County, a successful request for voluntary departure allows you to leave the U.S. without a removal order, but failure to depart triggers severe penalties.
| Outcome | Legal Status | Future Re-Entry Bar | Financial Penalty | Other Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Voluntary Departure Granted & Complied With | Departure without removal order | No automatic bar (subject to other grounds) | Cost of own departure | Must depart by strict deadline |
| Voluntary Departure Granted & NOT Complied With | Automatically converts to removal order | 10-year bar on re-entry | Civil penalty up to $5,000 | Ineligible for certain future relief |
| Request Denied; Removal Order Issued | Formal removal/deportation | 10-year or permanent bar | Government may bear cost of removal | Difficult to overturn; impacts any future visa |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Immigration Team in Gloucester County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to contested immigration matters. We understand that a request for voluntary departure is a strategic decision with long-term implications. Our approach is to provide clear, case-specific guidance to residents of Gloucester County, helping them handle this difficult process. “Advocacy Without Borders” is not just our tagline; it reflects our commitment to defending your rights in immigration court.
Immigration Case Experience
Our firm has handled a wide range of immigration cases. While specific results are unique to each case, our attorneys are familiar with the evidentiary standards and legal arguments necessary for requests for voluntary departure and other forms of relief. We focus on building a strong factual record to support your application.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Request for Voluntary Departure Lawyer Near Me Gloucester County
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Gloucester County, including Woodbury, Washington Township, Deptford, and Monroe Township. We are accessible via I-295, Route 55, and the NJ Turnpike. If you need a request for voluntary departure lawyer near me Gloucester County, we offer 24/7 phone consultations.
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) 200-6648
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
FAQs: Request for Voluntary Departure in New Jersey
What is the main benefit of voluntary departure?
Yes. The primary benefit is avoiding a formal removal (deportation) order on your record. A removal order carries a mandatory 10-year or permanent bar on re-entering the U.S., while a voluntary departure, if complied with, does not trigger this automatic bar.
How long do I have to leave if voluntary departure is granted?
It depends on the judge’s order and when the request was made. Typically, voluntary departure granted at the conclusion of removal proceedings allows 60 days to depart. If granted prior to completion, the period may be 120 days. An affordable request for voluntary departure lawyer Gloucester County can argue for the maximum time allowed.
Can I apply for voluntary departure if I have a criminal record?
It depends. Certain criminal convictions make you statutorily ineligible for voluntary departure. Aggravated felonies and crimes involving moral turpitude are major barriers. A lawyer must review your specific record to determine eligibility.
What happens if I don’t leave by the deadline?
No. Failure to depart by the deadline has severe consequences. The voluntary departure order automatically converts to a removal order, triggering a 10-year bar on re-entry and a potential civil penalty of up to $5,000.
Should I hire a lawyer for a voluntary departure request?
Yes. The process is highly technical and discretionary. Missing a deadline or failing to present the correct evidence can result in denial and a removal order. A request for voluntary departure lawyer Gloucester County can prepare the application, gather supporting documents, and advocate for you in court.
Related Legal Help in Gloucester County
If you are exploring other options, our firm assists with various immigration and related matters. You may also need a business lawyer in Gloucester County or a federal criminal defense lawyer in Gloucester County. For more information on our statewide practice, visit our New Jersey Immigration Lawyer hub page. We also serve neighboring areas like Camden County and Burlington County.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Immigration law changes frequently. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for the most current guidance regarding your request for voluntary departure.
Your case in Gloucester County, New Jersey
Immigration matters are federal: removal cases for New Jersey residents are heard at the Newark Immigration Court and applications are decided by USCIS. County criminal charges that can affect immigration status are heard in the Criminal Part of the Law Division. In Gloucester County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Gloucester Vicinage (15th Vicinage), 70 Hunter Street, Woodbury, NJ 08096, telephone (856) 853-3200, open Mon-Fri 8:30AM-4:30PM. Court procedures change; confirm the current schedule on the official vicinage website or with the clerk before you file or appear.
The governing law for this topic is the federal Immigration and Nationality Act. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles Gloucester County matters from its New Jersey location at 44 Apple St 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724; meetings are by appointment. Request a New Jersey consultation at (888) 437-7747 or (609) 983-0003.
Related New Jersey pages: Gloucester County NJ lawyers directory · Request for Voluntary Departure Lawyer Bergen County, NJ · Request for Voluntary Departure Lawyer Hudson County, NJ · Request for Voluntary Departure Lawyer Monmouth County, NJ.