Best Asylum Lawyers in France

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LBK French Law
Paris, France

Founded in 2015
English
LBK FrenchLaw, established in 2015, offers comprehensive legal services in French law to both French and English-speaking clients, eliminating the need for travel to France. The firm's primary practice areas include Family Law and Business Law, with additional expertise in Immigration Law and...
Cabinet Emmanuel VAUTIER
Meaux, France

Founded in 2007
English
Cabinet Emmanuel VAUTIER stands out as a distinguished law firm in France, renowned for its comprehensive expertise in diverse areas of law. The firm offers specialized legal services in criminal justice, family law, divorce, immigration, and real estate, making it a versatile choice for clients...
Eric Witt
Paris, France

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
French
English
About Mr. Eric WITT Esq.Mr. Eric WITT Esq. is a bi-cultural Attorney at Law admitted to both the Paris and Connecticut bars who provides legal counsel and representation to individuals and businesses regarding both French and American matters.His education, training and hands-on experience in both...

Founded in 2012
English
Maître Stéphanie Rodrigues Devesas is a distinguished law firm in France, renowned for its diverse specialties encompassing criminal justice, administrative law, divorce, and immigration cases. With a deep understanding of French and international legal frameworks, the firm delivers exceptional...

Founded in 2023
English
AARPI AMIRAL AVOCATS is a distinguished law firm in France, specializing in public and administrative law, with a strong reputation for its comprehensive legal services. The firm excels in providing expert counsel and representation in administrative, environmental, immigration, and medical law....

Founded in 2012
English
Maitre Emilie BENDER - avocat Nice stands as a distinguished law firm located in the heart of Nice, France. The firm boasts a comprehensive range of legal specializations, including business law, civil law, employment law, and family law. Their team of seasoned attorneys provides expert guidance on...
Novlaw Avocats Lyon
Lyon, France

Founded in 2020
English
Novlaw Avocats Lyon stands as a distinguished law firm in France, renowned for its specialized focus on administrative law. The firm's expertise spans a comprehensive range of legal challenges, enabling them to adeptly guide clients through intricate regulatory landscapes. With a team of highly...
SELARL AVARICUM JURIS
Bourges, France

Founded in 2008
English
Established in 2008, SELARL AVARICUM JURIS is a distinguished law firm with offices in Bourges and Saint-Amand-Montrond, France. The firm offers comprehensive legal services across various domains, including family law, criminal law, labor law, immigration law, civil law, and rural law. The team...

Founded in 2015
English
Maître Samira BENMERZOUG is an esteemed law firm in France, renowned for its exceptional expertise in a range of legal areas including criminal justice, divorce, family law, and immigration. The firm has garnered a reputation for navigating complex legal challenges with precision and a deep...

English
LE CAB AVOCATS (CHOFFRUT-ARNAULD DUPONT-BOIA) is a distinguished law firm in France renowned for its comprehensive expertise in various legal domains. The firm excels in providing top-notch legal services in administrative, civil, divorce, and immigration law, delivering tailored solutions that...
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About Asylum Law in France

Asylum law in France is designed to provide protection to individuals who are fleeing persecution or serious harm in their home countries. France, in accordance with international conventions and EU regulations, offers protection to those who are recognized as refugees or granted subsidiary protection. The Office Français de Protection des Réfugiés et Apatrides (OFPRA) is primarily responsible for examining asylum applications. The entire process involves a detailed assessment of the applicant's need for protection, balancing humanitarian principles with national security interests.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Seeking asylum in France can be a complex process that often requires the expertise of a lawyer. Here are common scenarios where legal assistance may be necessary:

  • Application Assistance: Lawyers can help prepare and submit a complete asylum application, ensuring that all necessary documents and evidence are included.
  • Interview Preparation: Preparing for the OFPRA interview can be daunting. Legal advice can help applicants understand what to expect and how to present their case effectively.
  • Appealing a Decision: If an initial asylum application is denied, a lawyer can assist with appealing the decision in court.
  • Complex Cases: In cases involving significant risks or complex international considerations, legal guidance is essential.
  • Family Reunification: Legal professionals can help facilitate the reunification process with family members.

Local Laws Overview

Several key aspects of French law are particularly relevant to asylum seekers:

  • Right to Asylum: Enshrined in the preamble to the 1946 Constitution, it establishes France’s commitment to protect those seeking refuge from persecution.
  • Dublin Regulation: Determines the EU member state responsible for processing an asylum application, often the first country of entry.
  • Non-Refoulement Principle: Prohibits the return of individuals to a country where they face persecution or serious harm.
  • Humanitarian Residence Permit: Can be granted to individuals under specific circumstances, including serious health conditions.
  • Subsidiary Protection: For those who do not qualify as refugees but who would face serious harm in their home country.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a refugee and an asylum seeker?

A refugee is someone whose claim for asylum has been accepted, granting them protection and legal status. An asylum seeker is someone who has lodged a claim and is awaiting a decision.

How long does the asylum application process take in France?

The duration varies but typically takes several months. The decision-making process should generally not exceed six months, barring complex cases.

What rights do asylum seekers have in France?

Asylum seekers have rights to housing, basic financial support, healthcare, and education for children while their application is being processed.

Can I work while my asylum application is pending?

Asylum seekers in France are not automatically granted the right to work. However, if no decision has been made within six months, applicants may request permission to work.

What happens if my asylum application is refused?

You have the right to appeal the decision to the National Court of Asylum (CNDA) within one month from the notification of refusal.

How does family reunification work for refugees in France?

Recognized refugees can apply for family reunification, allowing their spouse and minor children to join them in France.

Are there any fees associated with the asylum application?

Applying for asylum in France is free of charge.

What kind of protection can France offer to asylum seekers?

France offers refugee status, subsidiary protection, and temporary residence permits based on specific circumstances.

Can my asylum request be processed in another EU country?

Under the Dublin Regulation, your application may be transferred to the first EU country you entered.

What is subsidiary protection?

Subsidiary protection is granted to individuals who do not qualify as refugees but face serious threats, such as death penalty, torture, or indiscriminate violence, in their country of origin.

Additional Resources

There are numerous resources and organizations that can provide assistance to asylum seekers in France:

  • OFPRA (Office Français de Protection des Réfugiés et Apatrides): The central authority for processing asylum applications.
  • Cimade: An association offering legal assistance and support to immigrants and refugees.
  • France Terre d'Asile: Provides information, legal advice, and social support to asylum seekers.
  • National Court of Asylum (CNDA): Handles appeals regarding asylum decisions.
  • UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees): Offers protection and support on an international level.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance regarding asylum in France, consider taking the following steps:

  1. Contact Legal Aid Services: Reach out to local legal aid organizations that specialize in immigration law for guidance and representation.
  2. Schedule a Consultation: Arrange to speak with a lawyer who specializes in asylum cases to discuss your situation and possible strategies.
  3. Prepare Your Documentation: Gather all relevant documents such as identification, evidence of persecution, and any previous correspondence related to your asylum claim.
  4. Stay Informed: Keep abreast of any changes or developments in asylum law and procedures in France that may affect your application.
  5. Maintain Communication: Stay in contact with your legal representative and provide updates or new information that could impact your case.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in France through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Asylum, experience, and client feedback.

Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters.

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Disclaimer:

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.

We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.