Best Asylum Lawyers in Colorado

About Asylum Law in Colorado, United States

Asylum is a form of protection granted to individuals who have fled their home countries due to persecution or fear of persecution based on specific protected grounds, such as race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group. In the United States, including Colorado, asylum seekers can apply for protection either affirmatively through the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or defensively as a defense against deportation in immigration court. Colorado does not have state-specific asylum laws but is subject to federal laws and regulations governing the asylum process. The immigration courts in Denver handle asylum cases for individuals residing in Colorado.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Navigating the asylum process can be complex and stressful. You may need a lawyer if you are:

• Unsure if you are eligible for asylum protection
• Filing an application after the one-year filing deadline
• Facing deportation and want to apply for asylum as a defense
• Needing help gathering and presenting evidence of persecution
• Experiencing difficulties with English or with legal documentation
• Unsure about the required forms and deadlines
• Dealing with a criminal record or prior immigration violations
• Needing to appeal a denied asylum application

A qualified attorney can guide you through each step, increase your chances of success, and protect your rights.

Local Laws Overview

Although Colorado does not have its own asylum laws, individuals applying for asylum in Colorado are subject to federal regulations and immigration court proceedings managed in the Denver Immigration Court. Important aspects to consider include:

• Asylum applications must generally be filed within one year of arrival in the United States, unless you qualify for an exception.
• Asylum seekers must prove a credible and well-founded fear of persecution in their home country based on specific protected grounds.
• If applying defensively, your case will be heard by an immigration judge at the Denver Immigration Court.
• Colorado-based organizations and pro bono legal clinics may assist asylum seekers locally.
• The Denver field office for USCIS handles affirmative asylum interviews for residents of Colorado.
• Federal laws prohibit discrimination based on immigration status in certain situations, providing some protections for asylum seekers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is asylum and who is eligible in Colorado?

Asylum is a legal status for people who fear persecution in their home countries because of race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group. Eligibility requirements are determined by federal law and apply the same way in Colorado as in other states.

How do I apply for asylum while living in Colorado?

You can apply for asylum by submitting Form I-589 to USCIS if you are not in removal proceedings, or to the immigration court if you are. The Denver USCIS Asylum Office and the Denver Immigration Court handle most cases for Colorado residents.

What is the deadline for applying for asylum?

Generally, you must apply within one year of arriving in the United States. Exceptions exist for changed circumstances or extraordinary circumstances that prevented timely filing.

Can I work in Colorado while my asylum application is pending?

Yes, but only after your asylum application has been pending for at least 150 days. You can then apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) to work legally.

Where will my asylum interview or hearing take place?

If you apply affirmatively, your interview will be at the USCIS Denver Field Office. If your case is in removal proceedings, your hearing will take place at the Denver Immigration Court.

Should I hire a lawyer to help with my asylum case?

A lawyer is not required, but legal representation can greatly improve your chances of a successful outcome. Asylum law is complicated and having a lawyer can help you avoid common mistakes.

What should I do if I miss the one-year filing deadline?

You may still apply if you can show changed circumstances affecting your eligibility, or extraordinary circumstances that prevented you from filing on time. Documentation and legal assistance are often needed in these cases.

Can my family members also get asylum if I am approved?

You may include your spouse and unmarried children under 21 years of age in your application. If you are granted asylum, they may also be eligible.

What happens if my asylum application is denied in Colorado?

If applied affirmatively and denied, you may be referred to immigration court for removal proceedings, where you can renew your asylum request. If denied by the court, you may be able to appeal the decision.

Are there organizations in Colorado that can help asylum seekers?

Yes, there are several nonprofit organizations and legal aid providers in Colorado that offer assistance to asylum seekers, often at little or no cost.

Additional Resources

If you are seeking help with asylum in Colorado, consider the following resources:

• United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Denver Field Office
• Denver Immigration Court
• Rocky Mountain Immigrant Advocacy Network (RMIAN)
• Colorado Legal Services
• American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) Colorado Chapter
• Lutheran Family Services Rocky Mountains
• International Rescue Committee in Denver
• Migrant and Refugee Services with Catholic Charities

Many of these organizations provide legal consultations, representation, or referrals to attorneys with experience in asylum law.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance with asylum in Colorado, begin by gathering all relevant documents, such as identification papers, evidence of persecution, and any documents relating to your entry into the United States. Contact a qualified immigration attorney or one of the nonprofit organizations listed above for guidance. Timeliness is important, especially with filing deadlines, so take action as soon as possible. Always attend any scheduled interviews or court hearings, and keep copies of all documents submitted. When in doubt, seek advice from a licensed professional experienced in asylum law to ensure the best chance of a successful outcome.