Request for Voluntary Departure Lawyer in Hunterdon County, NJ
A request for voluntary departure is a critical immigration proceeding where you ask the court for permission to leave the U.S. voluntarily instead of facing a formal removal order. In Hunterdon County, these cases are heard in the Newark Immigration Court. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Understanding a Request for Voluntary Departure in New Jersey
Voluntary departure is a form of relief available under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). It allows a noncitizen to leave 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. The process is governed by federal statute, specifically Section 240B of the INA. To be eligible, you must concede removability, waive certain appeals, and post a bond. The immigration judge has discretion to grant or deny the request.
Last verified: March 2026 | Newark Immigration Court | Executive Office for Immigration Review
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings decades of combined experience to contested immigration matters. We understand that a request for voluntary departure lawyer Hunterdon County clients trust must handle both the legal statutes and the practical realities of the court system.
Official Government Resources
- Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) – USCIS
- Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) – U.S. Department of Justice
The Local Process for Voluntary Departure in Hunterdon County
While Hunterdon County does not have its own immigration court, residents’ cases are typically heard at the Newark Immigration Court. The process for a request for voluntary departure is uniform but requires precise action. You must make the request before the conclusion of your removal proceedings. The judge will consider factors like your length of presence in the U.S., criminal history, and evidence of good moral character. If granted, you typically have 60 to 120 days to depart.
- Case Assessment: An attorney reviews your entire immigration history and current status to confirm eligibility for voluntary departure.
- Filing the Request: Your lawyer formally requests voluntary departure before the immigration judge during your master calendar hearing.
- Negotiation and Bond: Your attorney may negotiate with the ICE prosecutor and arrange for the required departure bond to be posted.
- Court Hearing: You present evidence of good moral character and a credible plan to leave the country within the granted timeframe.
- Compliance: If granted, you must depart the U.S. by the specified date and provide proof of departure to the court to recover your bond.
- Consequences of Non-Compliance: Failing to depart converts the grant into a removal order, triggering a 10-year bar on re-entry and possible fines.
Potential Outcomes and Considerations
In Hunterdon County immigration cases, a successful request for voluntary departure allows you to avoid a formal removal order, but it requires you to leave the country and may include a bond and strict deadlines.
| Scenario | Primary Benefit | Key Requirement | Consequence of Failure |
|---|---|---|---|
| Voluntary Departure Granted | Avoids formal removal order; no automatic re-entry bar. | Must depart by court-set date (usually 60-120 days). | Forfeits bond; order converts to removal with 10-year bar. |
| Voluntary Departure Denied | N/A | N/A | Proceedings continue toward possible removal order. |
| Departure After Removal Order | N/A | N/A | Triggers 5, 10, or 20-year bar on legal re-entry. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Immigration Case
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience, our firm has handled thousands of immigration cases. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to clients in Hunterdon County and beyond. We focus on the strategic details that can make the difference in a request for voluntary departure case, from bond negotiations to proving a credible departure plan.
Our Approach to Your Case
We approach each request for voluntary departure with a detailed strategy. First, we conduct a thorough analysis to ensure it is the most beneficial option compared to other forms of relief. We then gather all necessary documentation, including proof of good moral character and a feasible departure plan. We prepare you for testimony and advocate strongly before the immigration judge. Our goal is to secure the grant and then ensure you have a clear path to comply, protecting your future options.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Service for Hunterdon County Residents
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) 651-3900
By appointment only.
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Hunterdon County, including Flemington, Clinton, Lambertville, and Readington. While immigration court is in Newark, we represent you locally and are accessible via major routes like I-78 and Route 202. If you need a request for voluntary departure lawyer near me Hunterdon County, we offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are held by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main benefit of voluntary departure?
Yes. The primary benefit is avoiding a formal order of removal. A removal order carries automatic bars on re-entering the U.S. for 5, 10, or 20 years. Voluntary departure allows you to leave without that specific bar, potentially making it easier to apply for a visa in the future.
Can I apply for voluntary departure at any time?
No. You must request voluntary departure from an immigration judge before the conclusion of your removal proceedings. Once the judge issues a final order of removal, you are generally no longer eligible. Timing is critical, which is why consulting an attorney early is essential.
How long do I have to leave if it is granted?
It depends on the judge’s discretion. The law allows a period of up to 120 days. Typically, judges grant 60 days. You may request more time for specific reasons, such as settling affairs or completing a school semester, but you must provide strong evidence to support the request.
What happens if I don’t leave by the deadline?
If you fail to depart on time, the voluntary departure order automatically converts into a removal order. You will then be subject to a 10-year bar on re-entering the United States. You will also forfeit any bond you posted and may be fined.
Is voluntary departure the same as withdrawing my application for admission?
No. They are different processes. Withdrawal of application is typically for individuals at a port of entry who have not yet been formally admitted. Voluntary departure is for individuals already in the country who are in removal proceedings before an immigration judge.
Do I need a lawyer for a request for voluntary departure?
While not legally required, having an attorney is highly advisable. The process involves strict deadlines, legal concessions, and strategic negotiations with ICE. An experienced request for voluntary departure lawyer Hunterdon County residents can rely on can properly assess eligibility, present a strong case, and help you avoid costly mistakes that affect your immigration future.
Related Legal Services in Hunterdon County
If you are facing other legal challenges, our firm also assists with business law, contract disputes, and federal criminal defense in Hunterdon County. For more information on our statewide immigration practice, visit our New Jersey immigration lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in neighboring areas like Bergen County and Burlington County.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Immigration law and procedures change frequently. The information on this page is for general understanding and should not be taken as legal advice for your specific case. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation about your situation.
Your case in Hunterdon 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 Hunterdon County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Hunterdon Vicinage (13th Vicinage), 65 Park Avenue, Flemington, NJ 08822, telephone (908) 824-9750, 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 Hunterdon 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: Hunterdon 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.