Best Asylum Lawyers in New Hampshire

About Asylum Law in New Hampshire, United States

Asylum is a form of protection granted to individuals in the United States who have suffered persecution or have a well-founded fear of persecution in their home country based on race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion. While asylum laws are enacted on the federal level, individuals seeking asylum in New Hampshire must navigate the process through immigration courts that serve the region. Asylum provides a path to lawful status, the ability to work, and eventually, the opportunity to apply for permanent residency and citizenship.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Immigration and asylum law in the United States is highly complex, and the stakes can be extremely high for those seeking protection. Common situations that lead people in New Hampshire to seek a lawyer for asylum include:

• Fear of returning to your home country due to threats or harm
• Receiving a Notice to Appear from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)
• Facing a removal or deportation proceeding in immigration court
• Difficulty gathering necessary documents and evidence to support an asylum claim
• Language barriers or lack of familiarity with the US legal system
• Experiencing delays or denials in your asylum process
• Seeking to include family members in your application

A qualified immigration attorney can help you understand your rights, prepare your application, represent you in immigration court, and improve your chances of a positive outcome.

Local Laws Overview

Although asylum law is primarily governed by federal regulations, New Hampshire's local context can affect your case. Asylum seekers in New Hampshire generally file their initial applications with United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or pursue relief before the Boston Immigration Court if they are in removal proceedings. New Hampshire does not have its own asylum-specific laws, but the state does have local organizations and resources that provide support for asylum seekers. Additionally, awareness of New Hampshire's approach to law enforcement, available legal aid, and support networks can be crucial for individuals navigating the system in the state.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the deadline to apply for asylum in New Hampshire?

You must generally apply for asylum within one year of your arrival in the United States, unless you qualify for an exception based on changed or extraordinary circumstances.

Where do I file my asylum application if I live in New Hampshire?

Most applications are filed with USCIS, but if you are in removal proceedings, your case will move to the Boston Immigration Court, which serves New Hampshire residents.

Can I work while my asylum application is pending?

You may apply for a work permit 150 days after filing your complete asylum application, provided there are no delays caused by you.

Can my family be included in my asylum application?

Yes, you can include your spouse and unmarried children under age 21 on your application or apply for them to join you later if you are granted asylum.

What happens if my asylum application is denied?

If your application is denied by USCIS and you lack legal status, you will be placed in removal proceedings, where an immigration judge will review your case.

Can I apply for asylum if I am already in deportation proceedings?

Yes, you can request asylum as a defense to removal and present your case before an immigration judge.

How long does the asylum process take in New Hampshire?

Processing times vary, but it can take from several months to several years, depending on the specifics of your case and court backlog.

Do I need to attend a hearing in person?

If your case is in immigration court, you must attend all hearings. Failing to appear can result in an automatic order of removal.

What evidence should I submit with my asylum application?

You should provide documents supporting your claim, such as police reports, medical records, witness statements, country condition reports, and personal testimony.

Are there free or low-cost legal services available in New Hampshire?

Yes, several nonprofit agencies and legal aid organizations assist asylum seekers with little or no cost.

Additional Resources

If you are seeking asylum in New Hampshire, you may find the following resources helpful:

• United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) - for application forms and official information
• Boston Immigration Court - the court serving New Hampshire residents for removal proceedings
• New Hampshire Legal Assistance - nonprofit legal aid provider
• International Institute of New England - offers legal and social services to immigrants and refugees
• American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of New Hampshire - provides advocacy and legal support
• Local faith-based and community organizations that support immigrants and refugees

Next Steps

If you believe you may qualify for asylum or are already involved in the process, it is important to act quickly due to strict application deadlines. Consider scheduling a consultation with a licensed immigration attorney who has asylum experience. Gather as much evidence and documentation as possible to support your claim. If you need assistance finding a lawyer, reach out to nonprofit organizations or legal aid societies in New Hampshire that specialize in immigration cases. Attending informational sessions or workshops offered by local immigrant support groups can also provide valuable guidance. Remember to keep copies of all documents and maintain records of your communications and submission dates as you proceed with your case.